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- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice and manage a varied litigation caseload.
- Company: Dynamic legal services team in Mid Sussex with a focus on compliance and transparency.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by supporting local government decisions and protecting client interests.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or equivalent with strong litigation experience in local government.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with a commitment to equal opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 39 - 55 £ per hour.
£55 per hour | Hybrid working (1 day per week in office) Mid Sussex
Our clients Legal Services team plays a central role in supporting the Monitoring Officer function and ensuring the clients decisions are legally robust, transparent and compliant with statutory requirements. The team provides legal advice across all functions and works closely with external solicitors and specialist counsel where specialist expertise is required. Our work supports the delivery of both statutory and non‑statutory services, including taking legal action where necessary to protect the Client interests.
You will provide expert legal advice, representation and support across a broad range of contentious matters, including:
- Licensing
- Environmental health
- Housing litigation
- Property litigation
- Criminal prosecutions
- Debt recovery
- Judicial review
- Regulatory and general litigation
The role involves advising Members and officers, attending court and committee meetings, and supporting the effective management and development of the Legal Services team.
Key responsibilities
- Act as a trusted adviser to Members and officers at all levels of the organisation
- Manage a complex and varied litigation caseload with minimal supervision
- Represent or support legal proceedings, inquiries and hearings (with or without Counsel)
- Attend statutory and committee meetings as legal adviser on behalf of the Monitoring Officer
Essential
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive (or equivalent)
- Strong experience of litigation within a local government context
- Working knowledge of environmental health, licensing, housing, judicial review and civil/criminal litigation
- Experience of attending courts, committees and tribunals
- Knowledge of relevant court, committee and inquiry procedures
- Experience implementing and advising on new legislation
Recruitment is done in line with safe recruitment practices. We are an equal opportunity agency.
Principal Solicitor - Litigation (Contentious) in Haywards Heath employer: 4Recruitment Services
Contact Detail:
4Recruitment Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Solicitor - Litigation (Contentious) in Haywards Heath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in local government. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of relevant legislation and recent case law. We want you to be able to showcase your expertise confidently when discussing contentious matters.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Principal Solicitor gig! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Solicitor - Litigation (Contentious) in Haywards Heath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in litigation, especially within a local government context. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your past roles, focus on your experience with contentious matters like housing litigation or judicial reviews. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and ability to manage complex cases.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your qualifications and experiences. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at 4Recruitment Services
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of litigation within a local government context. Familiarise yourself with the specific areas mentioned in the job description, like environmental health and housing litigation. This will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare for Real Scenarios
Think about some real-life cases you've handled that relate to the responsibilities of this role. Be ready to discuss how you managed complex litigation or provided legal advice in challenging situations. This will demonstrate your practical experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be advising Members and officers, it's crucial to highlight your ability to work collaboratively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with teams or supported colleagues in legal matters. This will help convey that you're a team player who can contribute positively to the Legal Services team.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics or upcoming challenges in the legal landscape. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.
