Job Description
Dumfries/Hybrid
An exciting opportunity has arisen within Legal and Licensing Services. We are looking to recruit a Solicitor with experience in one or more of the following areas: commercial, planning, or property. The successful candidate will work as part of our in-house Commercial, Planning, and Property Team, which provides diverse legal support to the Council and aims to deliver client-focused, outcome-oriented legal services.
We welcome applicants with enthusiasm and specialist experience in commercial, planning, or property law. Previous experience in local government is not essential, as training will be provided. The candidate should be willing to learn and eager to diversify their expertise.
The role involves handling a broad range of work in either commercial, planning, or property law, supporting the Legal & Licensing Service with general public sector legal advice. This may include advising regulatory committees or working groups, and expanding into other areas such as data protection and freedom of information, along with research and briefing notes in new legal areas.
Requirements
We are a technologically focused organization transforming how we serve communities in Dumfries and Galloway, collaborating with partner agencies and the third sector.
Dumfries and Galloway Council has modernized its working practices through our Smarter Working Policy, offering fixed, flexible, mobile, and home working arrangements. Our hybrid working model combines office and home working, promoting flexibility and work/life balance.
The successful candidate must:
* Hold a degree in Scots Law (or equivalent) and a Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.
* Be admitted as a solicitor by the Law Society of Scotland with a current, unrestricted Practising Certificate.
* The Council considers applications from candidates who have not yet completed their traineeships but expect to do so by 31 August 2025.
* Applicants with cross-border qualifications must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility and complete the QLA within 18 months of appointment.
Skills and Knowledge
* Good working knowledge of Scots Law.
* Knowledge of current and upcoming legislation in commercial, property, or planning law, with a willingness to learn about their impacts on the public sector.
Responsibilities
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to manage a varied and challenging workload effectively.
* Strong time management and organizational skills.
* Capability to provide clear, targeted legal advice.
* Drafting, negotiation, and legal research skills, including online research tools.
* Ability to work well within a team and independently.
* Self-motivated, confident, and proactive.
* Ability to build and maintain productive relationships with colleagues, elected members, and external solicitors.
* Flexibility to adapt to service needs.
* Commitment to confidentiality and professional ethics.
Desirable but not essential knowledge includes experience in delivering legal advice in local government/public sector, supporting policy development, and understanding of political environments and committee support.
This role is subject to Disclosure Scotland vetting.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including access to discounts, a Cycle-to-Work scheme, financial support, and wellbeing guidance. Dumfries and Galloway Council is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in our organization.
#J-18808-Ljbffr