Job Description
Assistant Lawyer / Lawyer – Local Government (Temporary Contract)
* Birkenhead, Merseyside (Hybrid – 3 days office / 2 days remote)
* PAYE: £60.00 per hour | Umbrella/Ltd: £77.71 per hour
* 36 hours per week
* Initial 12-week contract | Start date: 30 March 2026
Ribble Recruitment is assisting a local authority with the recruitment of an Assistant Lawyer / Lawyer to join their Law and Governance Directorate on an interim basis. This role will provide high-quality legal advice and services across a range of local government matters while supporting the council in delivering effective governance and lawful decision-making.
This is a hybrid role based in Birkenhead, requiring three days per week in the office and two days remote.
The Role
You will support the council and its departments by delivering legal advice and representation across a variety of local government functions. The position plays a key role in ensuring the council operates within a sound legal framework while protecting its interests and objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
* Providing legal advice to councillors, officers, and council services
* Drafting legal agreements, contracts, and formal documentation
* Conducting negotiations and managing litigation where required
* Undertaking advocacy in courts, tribunals, and statutory appeals
* Preparing and presenting reports for committees, panels, and governance bodies
* Supporting council departments on legal compliance, governance, and regulatory matters
* Participating in project teams to deliver council objectives and service improvements
* Monitoring developments in legislation and case law impacting local government services
* Using case management systems for time recording and legal file management
* Supporting and mentoring junior colleagues within the legal service where appropriate
* Representing the Monitoring Officer or Head of Legal Services at meetings and public forums
RequirementsEssential
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX)
* Experience providing legal advice across relevant areas of local government law
* Strong knowledge of local government legislation, governance, and decision-making frameworks
* Ability to draft complex legal documentation and provide clear written advice
* Experience presenting legal information to both specialist and non-specialist audiences
* Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
* Ability to manage competing priorities and high workloads while meeting tight deadlines
* High level of professional judgement, discretion, and political awareness
* Strong organisational and communication skills
* Proficient IT and case management system skills
Desirable
* Previous experience working within local authority legal services
* Experience working within a politically sensitive environment
* Experience delivering legal training or guidance to colleagues or stakeholders
* Ability to provide urgent legal advice in emergency situations
Additional Information
* Hybrid working model (home and office)
* Some evening or weekend meetings may be required
* Ability to travel within the borough for meetings or hearings
* The role is classified as a politically restricted post
About Ribble Recruitment
Ribble Recruitment is assisting the hiring organisation with the candidate sourcing, screening, and initial stages of the recruitment process for this opportunity.
To apply or discuss the role further:
Lewis Ashcroft
Ribble Recruitment