At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex legal cases and shape policy to protect communities.
- Company: Dynamic local authority legal team with a focus on public service.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Clear progression pathways and a collaborative environment await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local government and influence decisions that matter.
- Qualifications: Solicitors/Lawyers with strong skills and commitment to public service.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Make a real difference where your expertise truly matters – Join our Legal Team! We’re recruiting to expand our Legal team in preparation for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in local government. 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 conducts 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.
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.
Principal Solicitor - Litigation in Blackburn employer: Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
Join our dynamic Legal Team and make a meaningful impact in local government! We offer a supportive and collaborative work culture, with clear pathways for professional growth and flexible working arrangements that prioritise your wellbeing. As a Principal Solicitor in our forward-thinking authority, you'll have the autonomy to lead complex cases and influence decisions that shape the lives of our community.
Contact Details:
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Solicitor - Litigation in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal field. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at the organisation you’re eyeing. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for public service and how your skills can make a real difference in the community. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience in litigation and regulatory matters.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your legal expertise and how it aligns with the role of Principal Solicitor – Litigation. We want to see your personality shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Keep an eye on our careers page for new opportunities and updates!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Solicitor - Litigation in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Solicitor role. Highlight your relevant experience in litigation and public service, showing us how you can make a real difference in our legal team.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your strong technical skills and sound judgement shine through. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you've tackled complex cases and contributed to positive outcomes.
Be Authentic:Let your personality come through in your application. We value a supportive and collaborative culture, so don’t hesitate to share what makes you passionate about public service and working in local government.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key areas of law relevant to the role, especially around litigation and public service. Familiarise yourself with recent cases or changes in legislation that could impact local government work. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to handle complex cases and provide sound legal advice. Think about situations where you've made a real difference, whether through mentoring others or leading significant projects. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can make an impact.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working in a supportive and collaborative culture, be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in teams before. Share examples of how you've collaborated with colleagues or stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes, highlighting your interpersonal skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or future challenges the legal team might face. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the organisation aligns with your values and career goals.
