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- Tasks: Lead litigation cases for the Council, providing expert legal advice and representation.
- Company: Join Epping Forest District Council, a progressive organisation focused on community welfare and modern work practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your legal expertise in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Executive with relevant litigation experience.
- Other info: Remote work options available; commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals is essential.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 62000 £ per year.
Epping Forest District Council – Legal Services
Principal Litigation Lawyer – Epping Forest District Council
Up to £62,272 per annum inclusive of fringe allowance
36 hours per week
Closing Date: Monday 21st July 2025
Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Epping Forest District Council to recruit a Principal Litigation Lawyer on a full-time, permanent basis.
We are looking to recruit to a vacant role in our Legal Services team. We take pride in our supportive and collaborative team culture and our focus on delivering the Council’s objectives. We aim to be solution driven, providing the highest level of professional standards within a value for money framework.
The District – Epping Forest District Council takes its name from the forest which runs from its southern boundary northwards and shares boundaries with Greater London and Hertfordshire. The three main settlements of Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell and Loughton contain more than half the population of approximately 131,000 people but occupy only 5% of the district.
Working at EFDC – As a Council, we’re no longer reliant on a fixed desk, in a fixed building with fixed working hours approach. Remote and new ways of working are our new normal. We have developed new ways of working and here at Epping we made this a success by quickly adapting to modern technologies and placing new levels of flexibility and trust in our employees.
The role:
Principal Litigation Lawyer
Up to £62,272 per annum inclusive of fringe allowance
36 hours per week
This role is the Council’s expert for all matters relating to criminal and civil litigation, providing technical and professional advice to officers and members and contributing to the overall direction of the Service.
The role includes:
- Conducting cases on behalf of the Council in the Magistrates and County Court
- Housing evictions for anti-social behaviour
- Homelessness appeals
- Judicial reviews
- Defended debt cases
- Licensing appeals
- Injunctions
- Planning prosecutions
- Licensing Committee Hearings
The successful candidate would need to be/have:
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, Legal Executive or equivalent
- An experienced advocate in the Magistrates and County Court
- Experience of advising on whether there is sufficient evidence to issue proceedings or defend a case.
- Experience of drafting summons and appropriate claim forms together with associated documents necessary for criminal and civil cases
- Experience in managing criminal and civil litigations cases through to completion (bringing in other legal expertise as appropriate)
- A willingness to be included on the Licensing hearing rota and advise at hearings, (experience would be an advantage or a willingness to undertake licensing training).
For an informal discussion about these posts please contact Nicola Sayers, Head of Legal Services on 01992 564325.
Closing date: Monday 21st July 2025
Interviews: Week commencing 28th July 2025
For a copy of the job description, please contact
Epping Forest District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
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Principal Litigation Lawyer – Epping Forest District Council employer: Essex County Counci
Contact Detail:
Essex County Counci Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Litigation Lawyer – Epping Forest District Council
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal frameworks and recent case law relevant to the role of a Principal Litigation Lawyer. This will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Epping Forest District Council, especially those in the Legal Services team. They can provide valuable insights into the council's culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing both criminal and civil litigation cases. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your advocacy skills and your ability to navigate complex legal situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your adaptability to new technologies and remote working practices, as these are key aspects of the role at Epping Forest District Council. Highlight any relevant experiences that demonstrate your flexibility and willingness to embrace modern work environments.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Litigation Lawyer – Epping Forest District Council
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Principal Litigation Lawyer position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in criminal and civil litigation, particularly in the Magistrates and County Court. Provide specific examples of cases you've handled that align with the role's requirements.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your understanding of Epping Forest District Council's objectives and how you can contribute to their legal services team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a legal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Counci
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
As a Principal Litigation Lawyer, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in both criminal and civil litigation. Brush up on relevant laws, recent case studies, and the specific legal challenges faced by local councils. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Since the role involves being an experienced advocate in the Magistrates and County Court, be ready to share examples of your past advocacy experiences. Highlight any successful cases you've handled and how you approached them, focusing on your ability to present compelling arguments.
✨Understand the Council's Objectives
Familiarise yourself with Epping Forest District Council's goals and values. During the interview, express how your legal expertise can contribute to their objectives, particularly in areas like housing evictions and licensing appeals. This shows that you're not just a lawyer, but a partner in achieving their mission.
✨Embrace Flexibility and Modern Working
With the Council's shift towards remote working and modern technologies, be prepared to discuss how you adapt to new ways of working. Share your experiences with remote collaboration tools and how you maintain productivity and communication in a flexible work environment.
