Job Purpose
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Employment Solicitor to join the Authority's Litigation Team. The role involves advising on employment law, governance, and policy, as well as managing litigation matters. The successful candidate will also represent the Council as advocate in courts and tribunals, including the Employment Tribunal, while supporting the wider work of the Litigation Team.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide legal advice on all aspects of employment law, policy, and governance to Council Members, Officers, and associated bodies.
* Conduct litigation on behalf of the Council, managing cases and representing the Authority in Court, tribunals, hearings, and inquiries.
* Act as the Council's advocate at the Employment Tribunal and other relevant forums.
* Negotiate and draft contracts, agreements, and governance instruments.
* Assist with the preparation of cases, documentation, and statutory/legal tasks.
* Support the work of senior staff and provide assistance to junior staff where appropriate.
* Contribute to the wider activities of the Litigation Team, including civil litigation and clerking education appeals during busy periods.
* Keep up to date with developments in employment law and provide advice on changes affecting the Council's functions.
Person Specification
Qualifications & Education
* Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a current practising certificate (or equivalent) – Essential.
Experience
* Experience and knowledge of employment law, or the ability to acquire them quickly – Essential.
* Experience of litigation – Essential.
* Practical knowledge of public law – Essential.
* Post-admission experience of practising employment law at an appropriate grade – Desirable.
* Knowledge and experience of local government – Desirable.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
* Effective advocacy skills – Essential.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills – Essential.
* Strong drafting skills – Essential.
* Ability to work effectively as part of a professional team – Essential.
* Competent IT skills – Essential.
Personal Attributes
* Ability to work under pressure and to tight timescales – Essential.
* Commitment to continuous service improvement – Essential.
* Commitment to Equality and Diversity policies – Essential.
* Awareness of and sensitivity to political contexts – Essential.
* Willingness to undertake further training – Essential.
Pre-Employment Requirements
* Full valid UK Driving Licence – Essential.
* Ability to travel to various locations as required.
* Enhanced DBS may be required depending on work undertaken.
* Valid Passport or Photo ID to prove Right to Work in the UK.
* National Insurance Number.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this role, please submit your CV via Indeed. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next stage of the process.
Privacy Assurance
All applications are handled in line with GDPR and Data Protection legislation. Your personal information will be used only for recruitment purposes and will not be shared with third parties without your consent.
Reference ID: RQ1594455
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 3 months
Pay: £23.55 per hour
Expected hours: 37 per week
Application question(s):
* Do you have a valid Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a current practising certificate