C.8 Learning and Development

The learning and development needs of staff are incorporated into individual personal achievement and development plans. Further, for legal staff, there is a competency based performance training checklist which provides a detailed checklist of the key legal competencies to be achieved for each respective classification.

Training initiatives focus on the professional development needs of staff.

The majority of staff participated in some training activities during the reporting period. This continues the commitment of the Office to staff development.

For lawyers, there is a particular emphasis on advocacy and continuing legal education. Advocacy workshops are held regularly, with more intense advocacy training also taking place. Continuing legal education focuses on the professional development of legal staff in the technical aspects of the criminal justice process and laws of evidence, with regular sessions concentrating on practical issues being part of the weekly lawyers’ meeting.

This year has seen the implementing the new vocational training and development arrangements for paralegals. This has seen the majority of paralegals who are not studying for a law degree obtaining qualifications in either a level 3 in Business Administration (Legal) or level 4 in Legal Services. Three senior paralegal staff also completed a Diploma in Legal Services during the reporting period.

The Office administers a Studies Assistance Policy, which aims to balance the operational and strategic needs of the Office with employees’ needs for skills development. The policy provides for paid study leave and / or financial assistance for staff that satisfy the requirements of the policy. During the reporting period two employees received assistance under the policy.

The Office also assists in the delivery of training as appropriate. In particular prosecutors take part in the training of members of the AFP in various courses, including as part of the FVIP.

C.9 Workplace Health and Safety

Figures shown in the following table are based on data provided by the Workplace Injury Performance Unit in the Chief Minister’s Directorate.

Summary of incidents

Note: Dates of incidents is in the range 1/07/2012 to 30/06/2013