Job Description
3 -4 Month Contract With A local Authority
Job Purpose:
To provide expert legal advice and support on all aspects of governance, constitutional matters, and decision-making within the organisation. This senior role is key to ensuring that legal and regulatory frameworks are adhered to and that corporate governance is robust, transparent, and effective.
Key Responsibilities:
* Provide high-quality legal advice on governance, constitutional, and administrative law matters.
* Advise on committee structures, decision-making processes, and powers under relevant legislation (e.g., Local Government Act 2000, etc.).
* Support the review and maintenance of the organisation’s constitution, standing orders, and delegations.
* Draft and review legal documents, reports, and committee papers to ensure compliance and legal integrity.
* Attend and advise at committee meetings, cabinet, full council, or equivalent governance forums.
* Advise senior officers, elected members, or board members on conduct, ethical standards, and governance risk.
* Keep abreast of relevant legal developments and ensure these are incorporated into governance practices.
* Provide training and briefings to staff and elected/board members on governance and constitutional matters.
* Support or lead on governance aspects of corporate projects, restructures, or shared services.
* Contribute to the development and implementation of governance improvement plans.
Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) eligible to practise in England & Wales.
* Significant post-qualification experience in public law or governance law.
* Strong knowledge of local government law, constitutional law, and decision-making procedures.
* Proven ability to advise confidently at a senior level, including presenting in committees.
* Excellent communication, analytical, and drafting skills.
* Ability to manage a complex and varied workload independently.