Senior Solicitor — Local Government Litigation

Civic Recruitment Limited; Addlestone; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 54,000; Part time

Job summary

Civic Recruitment Limited is assisting Addlestone-based public sector clients in recruiting a qualified solicitor to cover a 6-month contract. The role requires handling a broad civil litigation caseload with autonomy, and advising on planning, property, contracts, housing and commercial matters.

The post holder will mentor junior staff, manage external Counsel where needed, and ensure compliance with legal standards within a flexible, partly remote and office-attended setting.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor with a current valid practising certificate.
• Current rights of audience appropriate to the requirements of the role.
• Valid SRA number.
• Substantial experience of working as a solicitor within a litigation or local government legal environment.
• Demonstrable experience of managing complex civil litigation matters with a high degree of autonomy.
• Experience across planning enforcement, property litigation, contract disputes, housing litigation, judicial review, commercial litigation and/or employment law.
• Strong experience in preparing and conducting legal cases, including advocacy and representation before Courts, Tribunals or other relevant forums.
• Experience of providing clear, practical and commercially aware legal advice to officers, management and Members.
• Knowledge and understanding of local government legal frameworks, procedures and governance requirements.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload, prioritise competing demands and work effectively to deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation and advocacy skills.
• Ability to mentor and support less experienced colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of complex legal matters independently and with minimal supervision, ensuring work is completed to a high professional standard and in accordance with good legal practice.
• Provide legal advice and services across relevant areas of local government law, including civil litigation, planning enforcement, property, contracts, housing, judicial review, commercial and employment matters.
• Prepare all aspects of litigation and legal cases, including pleadings, statements, evidence, applications, correspondence, legal advice and associated documentation.
• Represent the Council and undertake advocacy where required before the Magistrates', County and High Courts, Tribunals, Inquiries and other appropriate forums.
• Represent and advise management in relation to internal appeals and employment-related matters.
• Provide legal advice, transactional support and drafting in relation to commercial property matters, including wayleaves, easements, leases, lease renewals, management matters and disposals.
• Advise on Open Spaces, community assets and relevant housing matters, including Right to Buy, shared ownership, acquisitions and lease extensions.
• Prepare and issue First Homes Scheme certifications and provide advice on associated legal requirements.
• Draft legal implications and advice for Committee and Member reports and attend relevant meetings during office hours.
• Instruct and manage external legal advisers and Counsel where appropriate, ensuring effective management of legal resources and costs.
• Assist Counsel with the preparation and presentation of cases before the Courts and other relevant forums.
• Maintain effective working relationships with Council officers, Members, residents, external solicitors, barristers, the judiciary and other public and private organisations.
• Provide mentoring, guidance and support to junior and other members of the Legal Team.
• Use case management systems effectively and contribute to the continual improvement and efficiency of the Legal Service.
• Ensure all work complies with Council policies, procedures, professional standards and relevant legal requirements.

Skills

Communication skills

Advocacy

Negotiation

Legal drafting

Education

Qualified solicitor with practising certificate

Tools

Case management systems

Job description

Civic Recruitment Limited is assisting Addlestone-based public sector clients in recruiting a qualified solicitor to cover a 6-month contract. The role requires handling a broad civil litigation caseload with autonomy, and advising on planning, property, contracts, housing and commercial matters.

The post holder will mentor junior staff, manage external Counsel where needed, and ensure compliance with legal standards within a flexible, partly remote and office-attended setting.