6 Month Contract With A Local Auhtority
Purpose of the Job
To work under the direction and supervision of the Senior Lawyer, supporting the delivery of legal and administrative work across the Property team and wider Legal Services. The role involves handling routine legal tasks, assisting with case preparation, and providing general support to professional legal staff as required.
Duties and Responsibilities
* Assist the Senior Lawyer with a range of routine legal tasks, including interviewing witnesses, preparing witness statements and evidential materials, and supporting litigation in the Magistrates’, Family, Youth Justice, County and High Courts.
* Coordinate witness, Counsel and officer attendance at court; serve notices; prepare court documentation; and represent the Council at minor or straightforward hearings, directions appointments and applications.
* Support legal work relating to lease extensions, collective enfranchisement, Right to Buy matters, and other straightforward property transactions.
* Assist with simple contract and procurement matters, including preparation of contract documentation and bundles.
* Manage a small caseload of straightforward matters under supervision, ensuring timely progression and compliance with procedures.
* Undertake legal research and provide support to more senior lawyers on complex transactions or casework.
* Provide administrative and operational support to all staff within Legal Services.
* Operate electronic case management systems, maintaining accurate records, time recording, scanning, and storage of documents in line with departmental procedures.
* Maintain an up-to-date awareness of relevant legal and procedural developments.
* Produce performance monitoring information, financial data, and statistical reports as required.
* Carry out any other duties commensurate with the role.
* Ensure all work is undertaken with full regard to the Council’s Equal Opportunities policies, health and safety requirements, Legal Services’ objectives, and professional accountability to the Head of Law.
* Work collaboratively with internal departments, liaising with officers up to Principal Officer level.
* Maintain professional external relationships with Counsel, solicitors, court staff, experts and members of the public.
Requirements
* Commitment to implementing the Council’s Equal Opportunities policies.
* Awareness of Equal Opportunities issues (S).
* Basic understanding of local authority office procedures or general office administration (S).
* Basic knowledge of relevant areas of law and legal practice (S).
* Ability to learn quickly and apply new knowledge (S).
* Ability to prepare routine reports and statistical information.
* Ability to work on own initiative within supervision.
* Ability to undertake casework and associated tasks under direction.
* Dedication, commitment and capacity for hard work (S).
* Analytical and problem-solving ability, with effective critical-thinking skills.
* Competent use of Microsoft Office and the ability to produce high-quality written work.
* Strong literacy skills with the ability to produce accurate work (S).
* Clear, concise communication skills (written, face-to-face and telephone).
* Effective time management and organisational skills.
* Experience of working in a legal environment (S).
* Experience preparing legal documents (S).
* Ability to work with a wide range of people and maintain confidentiality.
* Ability to work methodically under pressure and meet deadlines (S).
* Demonstrable experience of working in a legal, administrative or similar professional environment.
* Experience dealing with confidential matters appropriately.
* Experience delivering work to tight deadlines (S).
* Strong written communication skills (S).
* Ability to follow instructions accurately and reliably.
* Ability to work effectively as part of a team across varied duties.
* Willingness to learn new skills and commit to continuous development.
* Commitment to service excellence and professional standards.
* Willingness to work outside normal working hours on occasion to meet urgent deadlines.
* Must meet the Council’s general requirements for the post.
* Obtained or currently studying for CILEX, a Law Degree, Diploma in Legal Studies, or other equivalent legal qualification.