Legal Adviser

Royal Borough Of Kensington And Chelsea; Winchester; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

LG Pension Scheme (Local Government)

Annual leave 25–28 days

Flexi-leave

Travel loans

Employee Support Services

Family friendly policies

Job summary

Hampshire County Council is seeking a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or FILEX with a current practising certificate for England & Wales to join the General Litigation Team. The role involves handling debt recovery matters, advising on legal strategy, and pursuing civil claims to safeguard the Council’s interests.

You will work mostly remotely after induction, with a requirement to be in Winchester one day per week and attend court when needed.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or FILEX with a current practising certificate for England & Wales.
• Strong legal judgement and client relationship abilities.
• Ability to work independently and within a team to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of debt recoveries and provide clear legal advice.
• Conduct pre-action correspondence and issue civil claims to recover debts.
• Work mostly remotely with Winchester presence one day per week and court attendance as required.

Skills

Legal skills

Client communication

Teamwork

Time management

Education

Qualified Solicitor/Barrister/FILEX

Job description

Job Details:

Job Reference: HCC625273

Salary Range: £41,985 - £46,565 per annum, plus Market Supplement of £1,500 per annum

Work Location:Elizabeth II Court, Winchester (Hybrid Working)

Hours per week: 37

Contract Type: Permanent

Closing Date: 4 November 2026

Interview Date: 11 November and 17 November 2026

The Role:

Hampshire County Council is recognised nationally as one of the highest performing local authorities in the UK. Our large Legal Service supports all Hampshire County Council Directorates and a wide range of other public service organisations. Working on matters that are as challenging as they are rewarding.

We are looking a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or FILEX with a current practising certificate for England & Wales to work in our General Litigation Team.

What you’ll do:

You will have a caseload of debt recoveries. You will work both individually and as a key member of a team providing clear legal advice, conducting pre-action correspondence, and issuing civil claims to recover debts to protect the interests and further the objectives of the County Council.

You will be mostly working remotely following induction, with a requirement to be in Winchester one day per week, and to attend court when required.

What we’re looking for:

You will be successful in the role if you are able to demonstrate sound legal skills and judgement; a pragmatic solution focused approach; strong client relationship and communication skills; an ability to work on your own initiative and within a strong team with a collaborative approach; resilience and motivation; and an ability to prioritise effectively to meet strict deadlines.

Why join us?

Hampshire County Council can offer you an improved work-life balance through flexible working and our excellent including:

• Access to Local Government Pension Scheme (employer contributions starting at 16.1% of your salary)
• Between 25 - 28 days annual leave entitlement (dependant on Local Authority service)
• An additional 12 days flexi-leave, dependent on operational requirements
• Interest free travel loans and discounts
• Employee Support Services
• Family friendly policies

Additional Information:

Legal Adviser

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Andrew Hatch, Team Leader (General Litigation) on 03707 795841

Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.

In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.

We are a Disability Confident Employer - committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.