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- Tasks: Manage legal cases, provide advice, and represent the Council in various forums.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Hackney's dynamic Legal & Governance Services team.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local governance while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with planning law experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth in a modern legal team within a vibrant community.
The predicted salary is between 45 - 55 £ per hour.
1 year contract with a Local Authority
The London Borough of Hackney is seeking an experienced Planning Lawyer to join its Legal & Governance Services within the Chief Executive's Directorate. The role involves managing a varied caseload of routine and complex legal matters with minimal supervision, providing high-quality legal advice to council services, and representing the Council in courts, tribunals, and external forums. The successful candidate will support the Council's strategic objectives while working collaboratively within an ambitious and modern legal team.
Key Duties/Accountabilities:
- Manage a caseload of routine and non-routine legal matters with minimal supervision.
- Provide clear, consistent, and accurate legal advice to Council services.
- Undertake advocacy on behalf of the Council in courts and tribunals.
- Draft complex legal documents, reports, and formal correspondence.
- Research, analyse, and interpret legislation, case law, and policy.
- Advise Members, senior officers, and stakeholders on legal, governance, and procedural matters.
- Deliver legal briefings, seminars, and training sessions as required.
- Maintain case files in line with Lexcel, Law Society, and internal practice management standards.
- Use the case management system effectively and achieve chargeable hours targets.
- Supervise junior staff when required.
- Attend and represent the Council at committees, external meetings, and working groups (including evenings when necessary).
- Contribute to service improvement, corporate objectives, and a customer-focused legal service.
Skills/Experience:
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister (England & Wales), or Fellow of CILEX.
- Proven experience managing complex and high-volume legal caseloads.
- Strong background in Planning Law and local government legal services.
- Experience providing legal advice within a public sector or local authority environment.
- Advocacy experience in courts and tribunals.
- Excellent legal drafting, research, and analytical skills.
- Experience using legal case management systems.
- Ability to meet chargeable hours and performance targets.
- Strong understanding of local government governance and procedures.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a legal team.
Additional Information:
- The closing date: 13/02/
- Location: London Borough of Hackney.
- Rate: £45–£55 per hour (Umbrella).
Planning Lawyer in London employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
Contact Detail:
Civic Recruitment Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Lawyer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with local authorities. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your Planning Law knowledge and recent cases. We want you to showcase your expertise and how it aligns with the Council's objectives.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your advocacy skills! Whether it's mock trials or presenting legal arguments, being confident in your delivery can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you're serious about joining our ambitious legal team.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Lawyer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in Planning Law and local government. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Legal Skills: When drafting your application, emphasise your legal drafting, research, and advocacy skills. We’re looking for someone who can manage complex cases, so give us examples of how you’ve done this in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your passion for the role shines through!
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’s super straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Civic Recruitment Limited
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on your knowledge of Planning Law and local government legal services. Be prepared to discuss recent cases or changes in legislation that could impact the role. This shows you’re not just qualified, but genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Since advocacy is a key part of the role, think of specific examples where you've successfully represented clients in courts or tribunals. Prepare to explain your approach and the outcomes, as this will demonstrate your capability in handling complex legal matters.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
The job requires working collaboratively within a legal team. Be ready to share experiences where you’ve worked effectively with others, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight how you’ve contributed to service improvement and supported colleagues.
✨Prepare for Legal Drafting Questions
Expect questions about your legal drafting skills. Bring along examples of complex legal documents you've drafted in the past. Discuss your process for ensuring accuracy and clarity, as this will be crucial for the role.
