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- Tasks: Lead legal reforms in residential leasehold and private rented sectors, shaping policy for millions.
- Company: Join the Government Legal Department, the largest provider of legal services across UK government.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a civil service pension, and a supportive environment for skill development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on housing laws while working on high-profile cases that matter to citizens.
- Qualifications: Must have experience in landlord-tenant law or leasehold disputes; public law knowledge is a plus.
- Other info: This role offers a unique chance to influence major legal changes in a dynamic team.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Government Legal Department (GLD) is the largest provider of legal services across government, working on high profile matters that are frequently scrutinised in Parliament and the media. From energy to security, health to human rights, we help the Government deliver life changing law for citizens.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is dedicated to changing and improving lives in the UK. It is central to mission-driven government. We guide on decisions relating to homelessness, affordable housing, regeneration, community integration and cohesion, plus leading on efforts to give more power and simpler funding systems to local councils.
Our Housing and Land team supports the MHCLG with a busy and exciting portfolio of work, and the Building Safety and Inquiries team was set up in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower fire. Its lawyers provide support relating to the litigation that followed the public inquiry and advise on policy development in building safety and the remediation of safety defects in residential buildings.
You’ll be an expert in either residential leasehold law or law relating to the private rented sector, and a good understanding of public law would be desirable. Reforming leasehold has been a long-standing government commitment and remains a top ministerial priority. We’re seeking senior lawyers with residential leasehold expertise to lead the next phase of legal reform, including strengthening commonhold as a viable alternative. This is a unique opportunity to shape legal and policy change affecting millions of homeowners.
We’re also delivering major reform of the private rented sector (PRS), with lawyers currently taking the Renters’ Rights Bill through Parliament — a once-in-a-generation overhaul. We’re looking for senior lawyers with PRS experience to lead on implementing these reforms and support wider PRS policies and programmes.
To be a success in one of these roles, you’ll have superb skills in leadership, effective decision-making, communicating and influencing, and managing a quality service. You’re confident thinking both strategically and creatively. Even under time constraints, you’ll have excellent powers of analysis and sound legal judgment and can offer risk-based advice. Your client care skills are matched with excellent communication.
You’ll be an established lawyer with practical experience of landlord and tenant law in the private rented sector. Alternatively, your experience lies in advising on leasehold disputes and leasehold management issues. For both roles, it would be preferable for you to have a sound understanding of public law. The ability to coach, supervise and provide pastoral care to junior members of the team would be a bonus, as would the skills to contribute to the wider running of the division.
In addition, any experience of drafting statutory instruments, advising on Bills, multi-tasking in a busy and diverse team, and prioritising when faced with competing deadlines would be desirable. GLD encourages its people to develop their skills in a nurturing environment. Other benefits include access to a valuable civil service pension and flexible working arrangements.
Our vision is to be an outstanding legal organisation and a brilliant place to work where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. This is an exciting time for GLD, with cutting edge legal work on global issues and a transformation agenda which is ensuring the Department exemplifies the Modern Civil Service.
Closing date for applications: Noon at 25 July 2025.
Property Solicitor employer: GLD
Contact Detail:
GLD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Property Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in residential leasehold law and the private rented sector. Understanding current reforms, such as the Renters’ Rights Bill, will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of property law, especially those involved with government legal services. Attend relevant seminars or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the work culture at the Government Legal Department.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your leadership and decision-making skills in practical scenarios. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed a team or influenced policy changes, as these will be key competencies for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on public law principles, as a sound understanding of this area is desirable for the position. Consider reviewing recent case studies or legal analyses that highlight the intersection of public law with housing and tenant rights.
We think you need these skills to ace Property Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Property Solicitor at the Government Legal Department. Familiarise yourself with their work on housing law, particularly in relation to residential leasehold and the private rented sector.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in landlord and tenant law, leasehold disputes, or public law. Make sure to showcase any leadership roles or projects that demonstrate your ability to manage a quality service and influence decision-making.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to express your passion for public service and legal reform. Discuss how your skills align with the role's requirements, particularly your analytical abilities and client care skills. Mention any specific experiences that relate to the GLD's mission.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. Ensure that your writing is clear and professional, as this reflects your attention to detail and communication skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at GLD
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the specific responsibilities of a Property Solicitor within the Government Legal Department. Familiarise yourself with key areas such as residential leasehold law and the private rented sector, as well as current reforms like the Renters’ Rights Bill.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role requires strong leadership abilities, be prepared to discuss your experience in managing teams and mentoring junior lawyers. Highlight any instances where you've successfully led projects or initiatives, especially in a legal context.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Thinking
The interviewers will be looking for your ability to analyse complex legal issues and provide sound advice. Prepare examples that showcase your analytical skills, particularly in high-pressure situations or when faced with tight deadlines.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain legal concepts in a way that is accessible to non-legal stakeholders, as this will be crucial in your interactions with government officials and the public.
