3 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Purpose of the Job
To deliver high-quality legal advice to client departments, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and that the Council’s activities are conducted in a lawful, transparent, and efficient manner.
Key Responsibilities
* Demonstrate awareness and understanding of equal opportunities and other people’s behavioural, physical, social and welfare needs.
* Adhere to the Council’s policies and procedures, including (but not limited to) safeguarding, financial regulations, promotion of equalities, customer care, agreed audit actions and health and safety. Ensure that reasonable care is taken at all times for the health, safety and welfare of yourself and others.
* Carry out any other duties which fall within the broad spirit, scope and purpose of this job description and which are commensurate with the grade of the post
* Provide legal advice and services to the Council, its Members, and client departments to ensure that the implications of local government law are understood and complied with. Represent the Council in courts and tribunals as required.
* Provide supervision and support to other lawyers as appropriate.
* Assist senior lawyers in drafting and advising on reports for the Cabinet, Cabinet Members, Council Committees and Sub-Committees. Attend Committees and other meetings as required, including outside normal office hours, ensuring compliance with procedural and standing order requirements.
* Support and contribute to the effective delivery of the Council’s objectives and priorities.
* Support achievement of the team’s income targets through effective management of work and resources.
* Monitor and share changes in law and practice. Implement necessary policy and process updates and inform client departments of relevant changes.
* Respond promptly and professionally to queries and calls, ensuring effective communication and engagement.
* Maintain complete and accurate digital and physical records of all work undertaken, including time recording, using the service’s case management systems.
* Work collaboratively with other teams and contribute to the training and development of colleagues and client departments.
Requirements
* Relevant degree (Law or equivalent).
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or CILEX (Chartered Legal Executive) licensed to practise.
* (Desirable) Postgraduate-level management qualification.
* Ability to provide effective and appropriate legal advice to Members, Officers, and stakeholders.
* Experience presenting legal advice at committee or governance meetings.
* Strong negotiating and influencing skills.