Senior Prosecution Officer

Job title: Senior Prosecution Officer
Grade: Grade E
Role code: SAO019
Status: Police Staff
Home Office code: Organisational Support

Main purpose of the role:

Manage the work of prosecution and traffic case review officers in all aspects of case building and file preparation, supporting the processing of all road traffic offences, including case building, provision of evidence for camera offences and acting as decision maker for broad range of traffic offence allegations, giving evidence when required and acting as court presentation officer at police traffic courts, developing and advising on relevant policies, resolving complaints and ensuring a professional service is provided, in order to support the correct disposal of traffic matters.

Main responsibilities:

• manage and motivate staff within the Case Review and Court Team Sections, providing direction and leadership, staff appraisals, target setting, addressing welfare issues, advising on personal development, training and coaching, in order to maximise performance from individuals and satisfy personal aspirations, ensuring that staff fulfil their potential and contribute effectively to the Force business aims.
• supervise all evidential aspects of case building for traffic offences and road traffic collisions, scrutinise and advise on documentation and processes, including the review of case file content, ensuring that evidence presented for prosecution is of a high standard, enabling successful progressing of cases through the Courts.
• as a member of the Management Team of the Central Process Unit, plan, develop and implement new and revised working practices, processes and procedures, identify and specify performance measures and standards, ensuring that the efficient and effective development and delivery of case review and court administration satisfies quality standards, and contributes effectively to Kent Police performance.
• provide advice, guidance and support to all Teams within the Central Process Unit on matters relating to evidence and compliance with the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act, acting as the designated Disclosure Officer where appropriate, in order to monitor and maintain high standards of investigation and disclosure.
• complete statutory Section 20 Statements, evaluate speed camera offences in consideration of summary proceedings, monitoring and scrutinising evidence provided, providing information and dealing with enquiries from the Crown Prosecution Service, attend and provide evidence at Magistrates Courts in respect of road traffic camera offences identified through the Highways Agency Agreement to ensure that the best evidence is presented in support of individual cases.
• act as Court Presentation Officer when required in order to present uncontested specified cases at police courts, ensuring in accordance with court procedural rules that all evidence is presented to the court in a professional manner, engaging with defendants attending court to ensure efficient use of court time and making decisions on the continuation of prosecutions.
• develop and maintain strong working relationships with members of the camera enforcement team, Crown Prosecution Service and Courts, Kent and Medway Safety Camera Partnership and the Highways Agency, creating and adopting co-operative working practices, so as to aid the identification and prompt resolution of problems and issues between departments and agencies.
• review qualitative and quantitative performance measures, evaluate and report on failed court cases and produce and analyse statistical returns to identify areas for improvement, in order to support standards of service delivery and improve the successful processing of cases through the courts.

July 2010, Amended October 2013

Vetting level:

Recruitment Vetting (RV)

Necessary experience:

The Senior Prosecution Officer will be educated to at least A level GCE standard, supported by a business qualification such as BTEC Higher standard in Business Studies/Public Administration. They will have at least 3 years management/supervisory experience in a medium to large organisation and have contributed to the business planning processes.

The post holder will possess competent business support skills, with a thorough understanding of the inter-relationships between activities, functions and processes and how operational police systems work. Particularly important are planning, communication and interpersonal skills necessary to motivate and direct a grouping of 7 members of staff.

The post holder will need to have a detailed knowledge of all aspects of case handling, evidential requirements, related legislation, Crown Prosecution Service processes and Court proceedings.

A good standard of communication skills, particularly to support correspondence and report writing, is essential. The post holder must have the ability to deal tactfully and diplomatically with people, using sound judgement and discretion, particularly when dealing with members of the public regarding issues of process, disagreements and enquiries about evidence. They will also need the confidence and presentational skills to represent Kent Police at meetings with staff from the Crown Prosecution Service and Courts throughout Kent.

Good organisational skills together and the ability to prioritise and plan work is essential. Experience of running a range of administrative and office systems is desirable. Competent information technology skills, including a variety of Microsoft packages are required.

Behaviours:

Analyse Critically (Level 2)

I ensure that the best available evidence from a wide range of sources is taken into account when making decisions. I think about different perspectives and motivations when reviewing information and how this may influence key points. I ask incisive questions to test out facts and assumptions, questioning and challenging the information provided when necessary. I understand when to balance decisive action with due consideration. I recognise patterns, themes and connections between several and diverse sources of information and the best available evidence. I identify when I need to take action on the basis of limited information and think about how to mitigate the risks in doing so. I challenge others to ensure that decisions are made in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (Level 2)

I manage relationships and partnerships for the long term, sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and those the police serve. I understand the local partnership context, helping me to use a range of tailored steps to build support. I work with our partners to decide who is best placed to take the lead on initiatives. I try to anticipate our partners' needs and take action to address these. I do not make assumptions. I check that our partners are getting what they need from the police service. I build commitment from others (including the public) to work together to deliver agreed outcomes.

Deliver, Support and Inspire (Level 2)

I give clear direction and expectations, helping others to understand how their work operates in the wider context. I identify barriers that inhibit performance in my teams and take steps to resolve these, enabling others to perform. I lead the public and / or colleagues, where appropriate, during incidents or through the provision of advice and support. I ensure the efficient use of resources to create the most value and the right impact within my areas. I keep track of changes in the external environment, anticipating both the short and long term potential implications for the Police Service. I motivate and inspire others to achieve their best.

Emotionally Aware (Level 2)

I consider the perspectives of people from a wide range of backgrounds before taking action. I adapt my style and approach according to the needs of the people I am working with, using my own behaviour to achieve the best outcome. I promote a culture that values diversity and encourages challenge. I encourage reflective practice among others and take the time to support others to understand reactions and behaviours. I take responsibility for helping to ensuring the emotional well being of those in my teams. I take the responsibility to deal with any inappropriate behaviours.

Innovative and Open-minded (Level 2)

I explore a number of different sources of information and use a variety of tools when faced with a problem and look for good practice that is not always from policing. I am able to spot opportunities or threats which may influence how I go about my job in the future by using knowledge of trends, new thinking about policing and changing demographics in the population. I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I encourage others to be creative and take appropriate risks. I share my explorations and understanding of the wider internal and external environment.

Take Ownership (Level 2)

I proactively create a culture of ownership within my areas of work and support others to display personal responsibility. I take responsibility for making improvements to policies, processes and procedures, actively encouraging others to contribute their ideas. I am accountable for the decisions my team make and the activities within our teams. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and for correcting any problems both promptly and openly. I actively encourage and support learning within my teams and colleagues.

Values:

Impartiality (accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public service (accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Business Planning (Level 3)

Able to effectively contribute to the business planning process within a Division / Department. Demonstrates a broad understanding of the requirements of Force business planning and value for money. Identifies and recommends local objectives and targets for inclusion in the Division / Department plan. Takes responsibility for monitoring these and ensuring they are achieved.

Casefile Preparation (Level 4)

Carry out quality control on all case papers to ensure compliance with CPS guidelines, legislation and policy. Example: Review contents of file. Specifically, examine the evidence, check categorisation, note plea and assess file notes to ensure completion and compliance with CPS guidelines. Identify any gaps or areas of non-compliance and raise these with the officer in the case and their supervisor as required. Complete a record of your gap analysis and request that the additional information be obtained within specified timescales. Liaise with the CPS regarding additional prosecution requirements. Initiate further actions as required. Respond to enquiries regarding case papers under review. Maintain and update case file database to record progress of case through the prosecution process.

Health & Safety (Level 4)

Has received Supervisor training and takes responsibility for the safety of directly subordinate staff and visitors. Understands the procedures in place for the safe storage of hazardous substances, fire precautions and evacuation. Resolves hazards or problems identified within roles or work environments. Undertakes skills passport assessments for new and existing staff. Re-assesses passport as and when new equipment /technology is introduced.Completes annual reviews of skills passports, training needs analysis.

Information Gathering & Analysis (Level 5)

Information gathered is sufficient, valid and reliable and is consistent with the organisation's values, policies, guidelines and procedures. Able to deal with situations when information is insufficient, contradictory or ambiguous. Able to organise and interpret information so that conclusions can be drawn.

Information Management & Technology (Level 4)

Can conduct basic computer searches and can correctly interpret data generated. Can create and amend records, according to role requirement. Knows established rules and protocols. Understands impact of data quality, and is self-monitoring on data quality issues.

Interviewing - General (Level 4)

Has received some training in reliable interviewing techniques and is able to apply these techniques fairly, consistently and to good effect. Identifies the key issues for examination and tests these using open and probing questions. Identifies weaknesses and inconsistencies in the account and seeks clarification. Keeps good written records of the interview for future

Knowledge of Police Environment & Policy (Level 4)

Displays a general appreciation of changes affecting the police service. Understands the inter-relationships between the roles of the various Operational and Support activities, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Possesses a detailed understanding of working procedures, practices and policies relevant to the current role and the roles of subordinates and ensures that these are followed at all times. Is clear about Force goals and effectively contributes to local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 5)

Has sufficient understanding of the NPCC records management policies be able to offer appropriate guidance and support to staff. Is able to identify the appropriate MOPI group for any record with a policing purpose and ensure that all policing records within the team are retained, reviewed or destroyed in line with the MOPI codes of practice. Quality assures staff to ensure a full understanding and compliance with the APP for Information Management (incorporating MOPI guidance), highlighting failings and taking appropriate action as required. Ensures training and / or refresher training is provided and completed. Ensures that systems are correctly linked together to ensure effective management and recording of information across systems. Appropriately reviews digital information held on system(s) and physical records in storage to ensure that they are retained only where there is a policing purpose. Complies with relevant policies and procedures in respect of prioritisation, sanitisation, dissemination,
sharing, relevancy, accuracy, adequacy and timeliness.

Office Organisation (Level 5)

Able to take full responsibility for complex administrative activities, including contingency planning in case of staff sickness, equipment failure etc. Able to devise local policies for file storage, archiving, security arrangements etc. in compliance with Force procedures. Competent to review and adopt new working practices for improving office organisation and contribute to policy decisions affecting service delivery. Confident with planning office reorganisation and moves of a substantial nature whilst continuing to deliver an effective service.

Office Technology (Level 4)

Demonstrates advanced skills in the use of one or more office software products Able to use these packages to enhance the quality or presentation of work required within the role. Manages data files and file structures. Provides on the job training and guidance to other staff in the use of specific or specialist software, if required. Familiar with established IT rules and protocols and shows a good understanding of data protection requirements.

Risk Management (Level 4)

Able to anticipate risks likely to affect the team's ability to execute their function, in terms of likelihood and impact, and assesses how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their team and their objectives. Has an understanding of pathways to alert local managers to flawed or ineffective operational control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.

Training (Level 3)

Able to present and convey ideas and new/ revised procedures, on a one to one or group basis, to a logical and well structured plan. Aware of a variety of training techniques, tools and principles.

National Occupational Standards:

AA1 (Level Accredited)

Promote equality and value diversity.