At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice on commercial property matters and manage client relationships.
- Company: Join a prestigious public sector organisation within the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive hourly rate, flexible hours, and valuable experience in public law.
- Why this job: Work on impactful projects in a dynamic team while gaining exposure to complex legal issues.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified solicitor with 5+ years in commercial property law.
- Other info: Location is Belfast city centre; applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
Location: Belfast
Salary: £29.55 per hour
Duration: Up to 12 months
Hours: Monday to Friday, flexible between 8am-6pm (core hours 10am-4pm)
Why Apply for This Role?
- Competitive hourly rate of £29.55
- Flexible working hours to support work-life balance
- Prestigious public sector opportunity within the Northern Ireland Civil Service
- Exposure to high-value, complex commercial property matters
- Valuable experience in public law, working on behalf of a key government department
- Belfast city centre location - accessible and well-connected
The Opportunity
Staffline is recruiting for a Commercial Property Solicitor to join a major public sector organisation through the Northern Ireland Civil Service. This 12-month role offers the chance to work on a broad range of public law property matters, including commercial leases, development agreements, and more. Ideal for experienced legal professionals seeking impactful work in a dynamic legal team.
Key Responsibilities
- Provision of legal advice and services, in a public law context, and acting on behalf of Departmental clients in property & commercial property - specifically Lands Tribunal and vesting compensation matters.
- Work will include sales, disposals and acquisitions of land; advising on vesting compensation procedure; dealing with vesting compensation matters, including advance payments; dealing with Lands Tribunal References, including representing Departments at LT Mentions; drafting easements and wayleaves, completing title due diligence.
- Drafting contracts; drafting and negotiating development agreements; drafting property transfer documentation; drafting leases, licences and/or agreements for lease.
- Advising on the Business Tenancies (NI) Order 1996; dealing with SDLT returns as necessary; and completing registration formalities as required in property transactions.
- Line management of others in the division may also be required.
- Actively working to build effective client relationships and understand client needs and priorities.
- Support Assistant Director in delivering and forward planning the work of their team.
- Regularly undertake case, time recording and quality assurance procedures.
- Participate effectively in the corporate life of the division, including team briefs, one to ones and training to develop professional skills and knowledge.
Essential Criteria
- Qualified solicitor or barrister eligible to practise in Northern Ireland
- Minimum of 5 years' post-qualification experience in commercial property law
- Strong drafting and negotiation skills
- Demonstrable experience in public sector or regulated environments is desirable
Additional Information
- Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK
- Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an Access NI check via Staffline (cost between £16-£32, depending on clearance level)
How to Apply
If you meet the essential criteria and are available for this role, we would love to hear from you. Submit your CV via the link provided or contact: Ray McPhillips.
Please note: To be shortlisted for this role, all applicants must meet the essential criteria. These roles may be filled quickly; however, your CV will be kept on file for future similar opportunities. Due to the high volume of applications, we may not be able to contact unsuccessful candidates.
Skills: Legal, Commercial property law, PLO
Commercial Property Lawyer (PLO) employer: Staffline Recruitment Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Staffline Recruitment Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Property Lawyer (PLO)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the public sector and commercial property law. Attend relevant legal events or seminars in Belfast to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges and opportunities in this field.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Northern Ireland Civil Service and its operations. Understanding their structure and priorities can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to serving public interests during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential case studies or practical assessments that may be part of the interview process. Brush up on your drafting and negotiation skills, as these will be crucial for the role and could be tested.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your experience in public law and any previous work with government departments. Highlight specific projects or cases where you made a significant impact, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Property Lawyer (PLO)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in commercial property law, especially any relevant public sector work. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in drafting and negotiation.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Explain how your background aligns with the role and express your enthusiasm for working within the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise your post-qualification experience, particularly the five years required. Mention any specific cases or projects that showcase your expertise in commercial leases and development agreements.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in legal roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Staffline Recruitment Ltd.
✨Know Your Commercial Property Law
Brush up on your knowledge of commercial property law, especially in the context of public sector work. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or experiences that highlight your expertise in areas like commercial leases and development agreements.
✨Demonstrate Strong Drafting Skills
Since drafting is a key part of this role, be ready to showcase your drafting skills. You might be asked about your experience with contracts, leases, and other legal documents, so have examples ready to discuss.
✨Understand the Public Sector Context
Familiarise yourself with the workings of the Northern Ireland Civil Service and the specific challenges faced in public law. Showing an understanding of how public sector regulations impact commercial property transactions can set you apart.
✨Prepare for Client Relationship Questions
This role involves building effective client relationships, so think about your past experiences in managing client expectations and needs. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully navigated client interactions in a legal context.