6 Month Contract With A local Authority
Job Purpose
The Employment Lawyer is responsible for assisting in the provision of an efficient, effective, and high-quality legal service to the Council, its Members, Directorates, and Officers, with a particular focus on employment law matters.
The postholder will provide legal advice and representation on a broad range of employment-related issues, including disciplinary matters, grievances, Employment Tribunal claims, TUPE matters, settlement agreements, and employment policies, ensuring the Council’s interests are protected and legal obligations are met.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage a varied caseload of employment law matters on behalf of the Council.
* Prepare and conduct Employment Tribunal cases, including drafting ET3 responses, witness statements, disclosure, case bundles, and settlement agreements.
* Provide legal advice verbally and in writing to Directorates, Officers, and Elected Members on employment law matters.
* Advise and represent Directors and officers at disciplinary hearings, appeals, and related employment proceedings.
* Provide advice relating to TUPE and organisational change processes.
* Represent the Council at Employment Tribunals, hearings, appeals, and committee meetings where required.
* Instruct and liaise with Counsel where specialist representation or appeals are necessary in the Council’s best interests.
* Ensure all legal proceedings are managed effectively and in accordance with procedural and statutory requirements.
* Build effective working relationships with Members, Officers, external legal representatives, and stakeholders.
* Provide practical, solution-focused legal guidance to support operational and strategic decision-making.
* Contribute to the delivery of a responsive and customer-focused legal service across the organisation.
* Ensure compliance with employment legislation, tribunal procedures, Council policies, and professional standards.
* Maintain accurate legal records, case files, and documentation.
* Support equality, diversity, safeguarding, data protection, and health & safety responsibilities in all areas of work.
* Undertake continuous professional development and participate in performance review processes.
* Undertake additional duties commensurate with the level of the post as required by the Head of Law & Governance or Principal Lawyer (Corporate & Litigation Services).
* Promote collaborative working and contribute to achieving Directorate and Council objectives.
* Represent the Council professionally and uphold corporate values and standards at all times.
Requirements
* Experience handling employment law matters, including Employment Tribunal litigation and advisory work.
* Strong knowledge of employment law, tribunal procedures, TUPE, and employee relations matters.
* Experience preparing legal documentation, pleadings, witness statements, and settlement agreements.
* Experience providing legal advice to senior managers, elected members, or public sector clients is desirable.
* Understanding of local government legal frameworks and governance arrangements is advantageous.
* Strong advocacy, negotiation, and case management skills.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to provide clear, practical, and commercially focused legal advice.
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a legal team environment.
* High level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail.
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate.
* Evidence of continuing professional development relevant to employment law.
* Commitment to equality, diversity, safeguarding, and excellent public service delivery.
* Compliance with DBS/CRB requirements where applicable.
* Valid driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use may be required.
* Commitment to complying with Council policies including Health & Safety and Data Protection requirements.
Additional Information
* Location: Dudley, DY1 1HF
* Payment: Bi-weekly payments