Job Description
6 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
To manage a caseload of employment law matters with minimal supervision while providing clear, accurate, and practical legal advice to Council clients. The role supports the delivery of corporate and service objectives through high-quality legal services, advocacy, and collaborative working across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage a caseload of routine and complex employment law matters.
* Provide clear, consistent, and accurate legal advice to Council services and stakeholders.
* Undertake advocacy in courts, tribunals, and hearings on behalf of the Council where required.
* Draft legal documents, reports, pleadings, and correspondence.
* Research, analyse, and interpret legislation, case law, and legal developments.
* Deliver legal briefings, seminars, and training sessions to clients and colleagues.
* Maintain files and case records in accordance with professional and practice management standards.
* Use case management systems effectively and achieve required chargeable hours targets.
* Participate in client meetings, committee meetings, and external meetings as required.
* Build effective working relationships with internal departments, external legal professionals, courts, and stakeholders.
* Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, governance, confidentiality, and professional conduct requirements.
* Support continuous improvement, modernisation, and delivery of high-quality legal services.
* Supervise junior staff where required.
* Keep up to date with developments in employment law and local government practice.
* Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role and grade as required.
Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister (England & Wales), or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives.
* Experience managing routine and complex employment law matters.
* Experience providing legal advice on the interpretation and application of employment law.
* Experience of advocacy in courts and tribunals.
* Experience researching and presenting complex legal arguments.
* Experience using case management systems and meeting chargeable hours targets.
* Experience delivering legal services in line with agreed client care standards.
* Strong knowledge of employment law and relevant local government legislation.
* Ability to manage a demanding and varied caseload effectively.
* Strong advocacy, negotiation, and influencing skills.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Ability to draft high-quality legal documentation and reports.
* Strong organisational and time management skills.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
* IT proficiency and ability to use legal case management systems.
* Understanding of professional conduct standards, confidentiality, and governance requirements.
* Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive working practices.
Additional Information
* Hours per week: Full-Time
* Location: London Borough of Hackney
* Bi-Weekly Payments