Job Description
3 Month Contract With A Local Authority
Job Purpose
To provide a comprehensive legal service to the Council, including high-quality legal advice, documentation, and representation on complex and high-profile matters. The role covers Civil and Commercial Litigation, Regulatory Enforcement, Licensing, and Employment, supporting members, officers, and clients while safeguarding the Council’s legal and reputational interests.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage a varied and complex caseload independently, ensuring deadlines and priorities are effectively met.
* Provide high-quality legal advice on complex matters, including decisions on whether cases should be initiated or defended.
* Represent the Council as an advocate in Courts and Tribunals, including Magistrates Court, County Court, and Employment Tribunal.
* Draft, review, and negotiate complex legal documentation.
* Advise Council members, officers, and clients on legal and policy matters, including high-value and high-impact decisions.
* Attend and provide legal advice at Council meetings, committees, and working groups as required.
* Mentor and support junior colleagues and contribute to their professional development.
* Keep up to date with relevant legislation, case law, and policy changes, and provide guidance or training where needed.
* Develop legal templates and improve processes in collaboration with client departments.
* Build strong working relationships across departments and with external stakeholders.
* Contribute to the ongoing development and effectiveness of the Legal Services Team.
* Maintain high professional standards and comply with relevant legal and organisational codes of conduct.
Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor or Barrister
* Law degree or equivalent
* Minimum 5 years’ post-qualification experience across at least three relevant areas of law
* Strong experience handling complex legal caseloads independently
* Experience advising senior stakeholders on high-level legal matters
* Advocacy experience in Courts and/or Tribunals
* Good understanding of local government legal frameworks
* Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
* Ability to make sound, independent decisions on complex matters
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Strong organisational and prioritisation skills
* Ability to supervise and support other legal professionals
* Commercial awareness and understanding of community impact
Additional Information
* Working Hours: 37 hours per week
* Pay: Bi-weekly payments
* Location: Swindon