Job Description
3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• An exciting opportunity has arisen for a qualified and motivated Litigation Solicitor (Employment) to join a busy and professional Legal Services team within a local authority setting. This role focuses on providing specialist legal advice and support in relation to employment law matters, with additional responsibilities across civil litigation and education appeal processes. The successful candidate will be part of a supportive team working on high-profile and complex matters that impact the wider organisation, supporting legal compliance and effective governance.
• This post offers the opportunity to work on a wide range of cases, from internal policy and HR advice to conducting advocacy at Employment Tribunals and Courts. The successful candidate will be expected to provide a high-quality legal service to internal stakeholders and contribute to the delivery of efficient and effective litigation services.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Provide legal advice and representation to officers and members on a range of employment law matters, including casework, internal policy, and staff disputes.
• Conduct employment litigation and act as advocate in Employment Tribunal hearings and other legal forums as necessary.
• Prepare and review legal documents including contracts, policies, and governance instruments.
• Manage litigation files from instruction to conclusion, ensuring proper documentation and case strategy are in place.
• Support other areas of the litigation team as needed, including civil litigation and assisting with education appeals during peak periods.
• Attend and advise committees, panels, and internal groups on legal matters relevant to employment and broader governance issues.
• Ensure that all legal advice provided is compliant with current legislation and case law, reflecting best practice and supporting organisational objectives.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in employment and public law and proactively communicate relevant developments to internal stakeholders.
• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure continuous improvement of legal services and to contribute to wider corporate objectives.
Skills/Experience:
• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a current practising certificate (or equivalent legal qualification).
• Strong understanding of employment law, with demonstrable experience or the ability to develop knowledge quickly.
• Experience conducting or supporting litigation, including advocacy in courts or tribunals.
• Excellent communication and drafting skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a professional legal team.
• Effective time management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong IT skills, including the use of legal case management systems and Microsoft Office.
• Commitment to service improvement, equality, and diversity.
Additional Information:
• Remote role.
Requirements
• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a current practising certificate (or equivalent legal qualification). • Strong understanding of employment law, with demonstrable experience or the ability to develop knowledge quickly. • Experience conducting or supporting litigation, including advocacy in courts or tribunals. • Excellent communication and drafting skills, both written and verbal. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a professional legal team. • Effective time management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. • Strong IT skills, including the use of legal case management systems and Microsoft Office. • Commitment to service improvement, equality, and diversity.