Lawyer (Anti-Social Behaviour)- LBS-011

Southwark Council; Greater London; On-site; GBP 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority in Greater London seeks a skilled lawyer to manage a substantial caseload focused on anti-social behaviour law. The role involves delivering high-quality legal advice to various council bodies and representing the council in legal proceedings. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong knowledge of relevant laws and possess the ability to draft legal documents effectively.

Qualifications

• Experience in anti-social behaviour (ASB) cases.
• Ability to draft legal documents and provide comprehensive legal advice.
• Strong understanding of procedural requirements and litigation.

Responsibilities

• Manage caseload of anti-social behaviour law matters.
• Provide legal advice to clients including council bodies.
• Represent the council in courts and tribunals.

Skills

Knowledge of ASB Law

Civil Litigation

Legal documentation drafting

Advocacy skills

Analytical skills

Education

Qualified lawyer with essential legal training

Job description

Job Category: Legal

Location: 160 Tooley Street, Southwark Council

Hours Per Week: 36.00

Start Date: Immediate start

Start Time: 09 : 00

End Time: 17 : 15

Salary: £38.43

To understand and have conduct of a substantial personal caseload of anti‑social behaviour (ASB) law matters including the provision of proactive legal advice on all aspects of ASB law.

A thorough knowledge of the law relating to the conduct of local authority Civil Litigation and Housing Tenancy Management Law including in the following areas: Housing Act 1985, Housing Act 1996, Crime and Disorder Act 1998, Anti‑Social Behaviour Act 2003, Equality Act 2010, Anti‑Social Crime and Policing Act 2014, Domestic Abuse Act 2021.

A thorough knowledge of the procedural requirements of Civil Procedure Rules 1998 (as amended).

Ability to obtain evidence, evaluate evidence, prepare cases and appear as an advocate where appropriate, on behalf of the Council in Courts, Tribunals and Inquiries, including the ability to take on urgent matters.

A thorough knowledge (or the ability to acquire it) of the law and procedure relating to housing tenancy management, PSED / anti‑social behaviour law.

To undertake a caseload of anti‑social behaviour / housing advice and litigation (including more complex work including the provision of legal advice, drafting of complex documentation and litigation).

To draft, negotiate and agree legal documentation arising out of the exercise of the Council’s anti‑social behaviour / housing litigation functions.

To undertake litigation arising out of the exercise of the Council’s anti‑social behaviour / housing functions including in judicial reviews.

To act as an advocate on behalf of the Council, where appropriate in relevant Courts, tribunals and inquiries and instruct Counsel to represent the Council as necessary.

To meet the chargeable hours target for the post and the agreed performance and quality standards as fixed by the Legal Services Management Team.

Purpose of the job

Responsible for the delivery of highest quality outcomes and effective legal advice to clients – including the Cabinet, Committees, other Council bodies and elected Members. To ensure the legal services provided are cost effective and meet the principles of good governance in decision making. Support the development and delivery of relevant strategies, policies and departmental projects that secure the achievement of key council and service objectives.

Principal accountabilities

• To deliver a high quality, sustainable legal service that complies with the statutory framework and meets the Council’s statutory and contractual obligations.
• Advising and attending Committees and sub‑committees, members and Chief Officers and frequently advising the Departments in relation to the Law in matters specifically relating to the work of the section.
• Devising and implementing new methods, forms and procedures as required by new legislation, revised council policy or generally including the review of changes imposed in relation to specific services.
• Determining the effect of new legislation and advising specifically on the impact of new legislation on the delivery of the council’s services or functions.
• Preparing reports and comments for reports to council, cabinet committees and sub‑committees.
• Attendance at departmental working groups, steering panels and project group meetings to provide advice.
• To support the working practices and procedures for the services provided.
• To work with Senior Lawyers and Lawyers to ensure a consistent and holistic approach to the delivery of services.
• To draft documents and prepare pleadings. 9 / 05 / 12 Lawyer JD
• Prepare and process all legal documents, including agreements, deeds, notices, orders, consents, byelaws relevant to the work of the council.
• Presentation of cases before courts and tribunals where the post holder has a right of audience on all matters in relation to the work of the council.
• Responding to legal questions received from members of the council, members of Parliament, the ombudsman and external organisations within a specific area of activity and under the supervision of the Senior Lawyer.
• To undertake the review of files under the guidance of the senior Lawyer, organise meetings and take notes of meetings.
• To support and advise at meetings, working parties