Governance Lawyer: Public Law, Flexible Working

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils; Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave

Pension plan

Job summary

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are seeking a Governance Lawyer to turn complex public law issues into practical advice. Reporting to the Director of Law and Governance, you will support sound governance and lawful decision-making across the Better Service Partnership.

You will advise officers and councillors on governance and constitutional matters, prepare reports, and attend committees to provide expert guidance.

Qualifications

• Admitted solicitor, barrister or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives with a current practising certificate and at least five years' post‑admission experience.
• Thorough, practical understanding of public law principles and local government law.
• Experience advising on governance and decision-making in public sector contexts.
• Excellent written and oral communication; able to present to committees.
• Ability to build relationships with senior officers and councillors.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.

Responsibilities

• Provide specialist legal advice on local authority governance and public law, including risk and case management strategies.
• Advise officers and councillors, prepare legal comments on reports to committees and chief officers, and attend meetings to provide governance guidance.
• Support the Monitoring Officer in statutory functions and handling Code of Conduct and corporate complaints.
• Advise on the Council's constitution and associated protocols; support updates and officer training.
• Explain implications of new legislation and prepare briefings for officers and councillors.
• Develop working practices reflecting legislative requirements and wider public sector guidance.

Skills

Public law

Local government law

Data protection

Governance

Policy advice

Communication

Stakeholder management

Time management

Education

Solicitor/Barrister/CILEx Fellow

Job description

Richmond and Wandsworth Councils are seeking a Governance Lawyer to turn complex public law issues into practical advice. Reporting to the Director of Law and Governance, you will support sound governance and lawful decision-making across the Better Service Partnership.

You will advise officers and councillors on governance and constitutional matters, prepare reports, and attend committees to provide expert guidance.