THE INDEPENDENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION (IJC)
The Independent Judicial Commission (IJC) is the lead agency for the co-ordination of judicial reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the development of judicial reform strategy. It provides opinions and advice to and works closely with Ministries of Justice, Judges, Prosecutors, other relevant national authorities and the international community regarding the process of judicial reform and the promotion of the rule of law and serves as a focal point for international assistance to judicial reform initiatives. It is currently spearheading a vigorous reform programme to enhance the independence and professionalism of the judiciary by restructuring the court system, the selection of judges and prosecutors and the institution of the High Judicial Council responsible for the appointment and discipline of judges and prosecutors.
PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF POSITION
The Head of the Restructuring Department is primarily responsible for the development and implementation of plans for streamlining the B&H court system. This will include development of criteria for the reduction of the overall number of courts and finalising a plan of the territorial jurisdiction and location of courts, including the creation of specialised court departments. It will also include the development and implementation of criteria for determining the appropriate number of judges, taking into account the various expected changes in procedural legislation and internal court organisation. These plans will be developed and implemented in conjunction with local authorities.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
· To devise and implement a plan to restructure the B&H court system as outlined above.
· To devise, implement and monitor implementation of related projects in such areas as court financing, court administration reform, improving the relationship between the judiciary and the Ministries of Justice and reform of legislation governing court organisation and trial procedure.
· To work with local authorities and to provide advice to Ministries of Justice, court and other organisations on all matters related to these issues.
· To ensure that all projects undertaken by the Restructuring Department are compatible with European standards.
· To oversee the work of the Restructuring Department and to co-ordinate with external consultants as necessary.
· To develop funding proposals for external donors to facilitate implementation of the restructuring plans and related other projects.
· To identify other projects required to ensure or enhance the success of the restructuring process.
· To liase with other departments within the IJC and to ensure co-ordination of work.
PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS
- At least ten to fifteen years post-degree professional experience required in a practical legal setting;
· Substantial court experience as a judge, prosecutor, counsel or court administrator;
· Policy experience would also be helpful, as would previous experience in a Ministry of Justice;
· Previous experience in development work in countries in transition desirable, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina or other countries of the former SFRY;
· Ability to lead and manage a team of professionals;
· Ability to work long hours in demanding circumstances;
· Ability to work and draft legal documents in English;
· Mature judgement and flexibility.
Any personnel with the above qualifications should provide a detailed CV/Resume (in English) with a one-page cover letter and references to:
Please quote Reference number: 2002/219
Closing date for applications: 6 August 2002
Only short listed candidates will be contacted and advised of exact dates of duration of contracts.