Working for the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel: Victoria Griggs
Updated 7 July 2023
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I joined OPC in September 2021, having spent a few years working in a City law firm where I specialised in tax. I really enjoyed the technical and intellectually demanding nature of advising on tax law and have always been very interested in politics and the legislative process. OPC has proven to be a fantastic opportunity to combine all of this, whilst also having the chance to make a meaningful contribution to wider society through the implementation of policy through legislation. Before I retrained as a lawyer, I took part in the Teach First programme and spent a few years working as a secondary school music teacher. I have definitely felt that my previous experience in both my teaching and legal careers has been valuable and valued by others.
At OPC we are specialists in drafting, rather than in any particular area of law, and we are often required to turn our hands to new and unfamiliar areas. In my time in the office so far, I have worked on a wide variety of projects relating to subjects including tax and finance, international sanctions, competition, and social security. I really enjoy getting to grips with completely new topics and understanding the nuts and bolts of how the law works.
The drafting process itself is fascinating: it is our job not only to ensure accurate and effective translation of the policy into law (which in itself is a very complex task!), but also to consider a wide range of related legal and political issues with the aim of balancing competing interests in a way that meets everyone’s requirements. Every project is different and gives rise to new issues, so I always feel as if I am learning new things and having to think creatively to solve problems. The job is undoubtedly challenging, and as a new drafter I have felt incredibly well supported in my work. There is a strong collegiate culture within OPC in which drafters support and learn from each other at all levels.
Although the job is inherently very technical, one of the best things about it is seeing the real-world impact of the legislation that we draft. For example, in 2022 I worked on the legislation that provided for the first round of additional payments to be made in response to the cost of living crisis. It was very satisfying to read news reports about how the payments had improved people’s lives, and to know that I had played my part in implementing the policy.