Solicitor - Epping Forest District Council

Epping Forest District Council; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Epping Forest District Council is seeking a Generalist Solicitor at newly qualified level or soon to qualify. The role offers exposure to governance, contracts, property, planning and regulatory matters within a supportive legal team.

You will manage your own caseload, work with experienced professionals, and contribute to policy development while benefiting from hybrid working arrangements and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Newly qualified Solicitor in England and Wales, or due to qualify shortly.
• Experience through a training contract or qualifying work experience across a range of legal disciplines.
• Strong legal research, analytical and drafting skills.
• Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and effectively.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Professional, proactive and customer-focused approach.
• Interest in local government law and public service.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support across a broad range of local government matters.
• Manage a varied caseload with appropriate supervision.
• Draft and review contracts, agreements, reports and legal correspondence.
• Undertake legal research and provide practical, solution-focused advice.
• Attend meetings with officers, Members and external stakeholders.
• Assist with litigation and advocacy, including preparation of court documents.
• Support corporate projects by identifying and managing legal risk.
• Contribute to policy development and guidance.
• Keep up to date with legislative developments affecting local government.

Job description

opportunity to gain experience across a wide range of local government legal work while developing your skills under the guidance of experienced legal professionals.As a Generalist Solicitor, you will provide legal advice and support to Council officers, Members and partner organisations across a diverse range of matters including governance, contracts and procurement, property, planning, litigation, housing, information governance, employment and regulatory work.You will manage your own caseload appropriate to your level of experience while working collaboratively with colleagues on more complex matters. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional development and progression within a dynamic local authority legal team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support across a broad range of local government legal matters.
• Manage a varied caseload, with appropriate supervision and support.
• Draft and review contracts, agreements, reports, legal correspondence and other documentation.
• Undertake legal research and provide practical, solution-focused advice.
• Attend meetings with officers, Members and external stakeholders where required.
• Assist with litigation and advocacy matters, including preparation of court and tribunal documentation.
• Support corporate projects and service initiatives by identifying and managing legal risk.
• Contribute to the development of policies, procedures and guidance.
• Keep up to date with legislative developments and emerging legal issues affecting local government.

About You

• Be a newly qualified Solicitor of England and Wales, or be due to qualify shortly.
• Have completed a training contract or qualifying work experience demonstrating exposure to a range of legal disciplines.
• Possess strong legal research, analytical and drafting skills.
• Be able to communicate complex legal issues clearly and effectively.
• Demonstrate excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Have a professional, proactive and customer-focused approach.
• Be committed to continuous learning and professional development.
• Have an interest in local government law and public service.

Desirable Experience gained within local government, the public sector or a related practice area would be an advantage but not a requirement. Full training and support will be available to the successful candidate. Knowledge of one or more areas of local government law, including governance, contracts, property, planning, housing, litigation or information governance. Experience of working with a wide range of stakeholders and clients.

Working Arrangements

This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with an expectation of attendance in the office, at meetings, hearings or other Council locations as required.

Why Join Us?

Our Legal Services team plays a key role in supporting the Council's priorities and delivering high quality legal services across the organisation. We pride ourselves on