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- Tasks: Provide high-level legal support on planning and highways matters.
- Company: Established local authority in South Yorkshire with a collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Competitive pay of £50 - £55 per hour and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Autonomous role with a varied caseload and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Step into a senior role and make a real impact in public sector legal services.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with strong Planning Law knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 50 - 55 £ per hour.
Location: South Yorkshire (Hybrid / Local Authority)
Rate: £50 - £55 per hour
Contract: Interim / Locum until end of April 2026
CRA Consulting is working with a well-established South Yorkshire local authority seeking an experienced Senior Legal Officer (Planning) to provide high-level legal support across a broad and varied public sector workload. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned local government lawyer to step into a senior, visible role, advising on complex planning and highways matters while supporting wider corporate objectives.
The Opportunity
Working under the direction of the Head of Litigation and Regulatory Services, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality legal advice across planning-related matters, supporting officers and elected members alike. The role offers a mix of advisory, drafting, advocacy, and leadership responsibilities, making it ideal for an experienced planning solicitor, barrister, or legal executive seeking a well-remunerated locum assignment.
What you'll be doing
- Providing legal advice across Town and Country Planning, Highway Law (including footpaths), and Compulsory Purchase
- Drafting and advising on:
- Section 106 agreements
- Enforcement notices
- Planning injunctions
- Reports and court documentation
What they're looking for
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with a current practising certificate
- Strong working knowledge of Planning Law within a local authority setting
- Proven advocacy experience
- Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills
- Sound understanding of the local government legislative framework
- Experience working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders
- A pragmatic, value-driven approach to public sector legal services
What's on offer
- £50 - £55 per hour
- Senior-level, autonomous locum role
- Interesting and varied planning-focused caseload
- Opportunity to work at the heart of a busy local authority legal team
- Hybrid working potential (subject to service needs)
For a confidential discussion or to be considered, contact: Rob Addy, Director - Legal Recruitment, robert.addy@craconsultants.com, 0114 241 8030.
Senior Legal Officer - Planning (Locum) employer: CRA Legal
Contact Detail:
CRA Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Officer - Planning (Locum)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the legal field, especially those who have experience in local authority roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of Planning Law and recent case studies. We want you to shine when discussing your experience with Section 106 agreements or planning injunctions. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your advocacy skills! Whether it’s in your CV or during interviews, highlight specific instances where you’ve successfully represented clients in court or tribunals. This is your chance to stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We make it easy for you to submit your application and get noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you to join our network.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Legal Officer - Planning (Locum)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Legal Officer role. Highlight your experience in Planning Law and any relevant advocacy work. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in drafting legal documents and providing advice on planning matters. We love seeing concrete achievements that reflect your capabilities.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at CRA Legal
✨Know Your Planning Law
Brush up on your knowledge of Town and Country Planning and Highway Law. Be ready to discuss specific cases or legislation that you’ve worked with, as this will show your expertise and confidence in the subject matter.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare examples of your advocacy experience, especially in courts or tribunals. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to present complex legal arguments clearly and persuasively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to planning law. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, as this will highlight your pragmatic approach to public sector legal services.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Discuss your experience working collaboratively with various stakeholders. Prepare to share how you’ve successfully navigated relationships with internal teams and external partners, as this is crucial for the role.