Legal Counsel (Enforcement Team)

Legal Counsel (Enforcement Team)

DFTO is setting up a new Enforcement Team, an industry first, responsible for all prosecution activity across the DFTO Group. As DFTO's Enforcement Legal Counsel, you will play a pivotal role in delivering enforcement strategy and policy, and supporting leadership with confident, informed decision making.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and manage criminal cases (fraud, theft, fare evasion, public order offences) ensuring thorough evidence review and accurate documentation.
• Represent DFTO and TOCs in court proceedings relating to Railway Offences, providing clear, persuasive advocacy and adhering to procedural requirements.
• Provide timely legal advice to leadership groups, translating complex legal issues into practical guidance.
• Determine whether cases should be prosecuted or resolved by settlement and draft related correspondence.
• Maintain legal competency by staying up to date with legislation relevant to the rail industry.
• Liaise with industry stakeholders, law enforcement and external counsel on investigations and prosecutions.
• Collaborate with case managers and other legal professionals on continuous improvement initiatives.
• Prepare and draft discussion papers for the functional leadership team and broader business areas.
• Report regularly on work in progress to the General Counsel (Enforcement) and Senior Legal Counsel (Enforcement).
• Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures for criminal enforcement.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Technical Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister authorized to conduct litigation, admitted to practice in England & Wales, with proven experience in a reputable firm, chambers, or in house organisation.
• Experience in criminal litigation, including case preparation and advocacy.
• Proven ability to manage a varied caseload, including complex matters such as fraud, theft, fare evasion, and public order offences.
• Strong legal analytical skills and ability to translate complex legal issues into clear, practical advice.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of influencing and building relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritise competing demands and deliver high quality outcomes under pressure.
• Collaborative team player with a professional and proactive approach to problem solving.
• Ability to research effectively using platforms such as PLC/Lexis Nexis or other trusted sources.
• Background in rail, other transport, or regulated industries desirable but not essential.

Vacancy Details

Duration: Permanent
Location: Hybrid/London Waterloo/Leeds
Salary: up to £73,368
Closing date: 17th June 2026

DFTO Benefits

• Annual leave: Starting at 25 days, increasing by one day per year of service within the first five years, up to a maximum of 30 days.
• DC Pension Scheme: 10% Employer contribution, 5% Employee contribution.
• Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry.

Disclaimer

Candidates applying for this position on a secondment basis must inform their line manager prior to submitting their application to ensure transparency and facilitate any necessary discussions regarding workload and responsibilities.

Contact

If you have any questions or require any reasonable adjustments, please contact .