Principal Solicitor - Litigation in Blackburn

Make a real difference where your expertise truly matters – Join our Legal Team! After celebrating internal promotions, wishing several long‑serving colleagues a well‑earned retirement and supporting colleagues to move to pastures new, we’re recruiting! We’re also expanding our Legal team in preparation for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in local government so we’re looking for ambitious talent ready to make an impact.

We’re looking for talented Solicitors/Lawyers and Principal Solicitors/Lawyers to join our forward‑thinking local authority legal team. This is your opportunity to work at the heart of public service, using your skills to protect communities, support vital services, and influence decisions that shape the lives of thousands.

About the Role

The Litigation team undertakes a wide range of work including regulatory prosecutions and appeals relating to environmental health (e.g. fly-tipping), and other areas including statutory nuisance, housing standards, trading standards, food safety, licensing, education, town and country planning, building control, highways, drainage, anti-social behaviour and any other function which the Council may prosecute.

The team conduct cases in the First Tier Property Tribunal, Magistrates Court, County/High Court and on occasion the Administrative Court. The team provides legal advice in all types of licensing matters including advising the Council’s internal decision-making Sub Committees on the law relating to taxi licensing and premises licensing. The team also represents the Council in licensing appeals and other civil appeals in the Magistrates Court.

Responsibilities

• Meaningful, varied work – From safeguarding and governance to contracts, property, and regulatory matters, every day brings new challenges that genuinely impact the public good.
• Professional respect and autonomy – You’ll be trusted to lead on complex cases, advise senior leaders, and shape policy with your legal insight.
• Supportive, collaborative culture – We work proactively and collaboratively in a friendly and supportive environment to achieve the best outcomes, and to support opportunities for training and development.
• Clear progression pathways – Whether you’re an experienced solicitor ready for your next step or a principal solicitor seeking strategic influence, we offer room to grow.
• Work–life balance – Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to wellbeing mean you can excel professionally without compromising your life outside work.

Qualifications

• Solicitors/Lawyers with strong technical skills, sound judgement, and a commitment to public service.
• Principal Solicitors/Lawyers ready to lead, mentor, and drive high‑quality legal practice across the authority.

Pay range and compensation package

If you’d like to learn more, you’re welcome to contact samantha.vickery@blackburn.gov.uk, who will be happy to arrange a convenient time for a telephone conversation.