Adults Housing & Litigation Lawyer in Taunton

Job Information

Legal / Security / Law

City Taunton

Province Somerset

Postal Code TA1

Job Description

3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality legal advice, support and representation in relation to adult social care, housing and litigation matters, ensuring the organisation’s legal responsibilities are met effectively and lawfully.

The postholder will provide expert legal advice to officers and stakeholders, undertake advocacy remotely where required, and manage a varied caseload involving complex legal issues. The role requires an experienced lawyer with strong knowledge of adult social care law, housing law and litigation processes, providing clear, practical and solution-focused advice.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide specialist legal advice and support on adult social care, housing and litigation matters.
• Manage a caseload of complex legal matters, ensuring cases are progressed effectively and within required timescales.
• Undertake remote advocacy and represent the organisation in relevant hearings and proceedings.
• Advise officers and managers on legal risks, statutory duties and decision-making processes.
• Draft, review and interpret legal documents, reports, agreements and correspondence.
• Conduct legal research and provide clear advice on changes in legislation, regulations and case law.
• Support effective decision-making by providing accurate, timely and practical legal guidance.
• Represent the organisation in negotiations, meetings and legal proceedings where required.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams, external partners and relevant stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with legal procedures, professional standards and organisational policies.
• Maintain accurate case records and documentation.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of legal services and processes.
• Support colleagues and share legal knowledge within the team.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the level of the role.

Requirements

Knowledge & Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with current practising status.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of adult social care law.
• Good knowledge of housing law and litigation procedures.
• Understanding of local government legal frameworks and statutory responsibilities.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations and legal guidance.
• Commitment to maintaining professional development and keeping up to date with legal developments.

Experience

• Significant experience working as an adult social care lawyer.
• Experience managing complex legal caseloads independently.
• Experience undertaking advocacy, including remote advocacy.
• Experience advising clients and stakeholders on complex legal issues.
• Experience working within a local authority or public sector legal environment is desirable.
• Experience dealing with litigation and court processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex legal information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to provide clear, practical and commercially aware legal advice.
• Strong advocacy and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Professional judgement and the ability to manage sensitive and confidential information.
• Adaptable approach with the ability to respond to changing demands.