At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage your own legal caseload and support the Council’s regulatory functions.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Legal Services team at Cumberland Council.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Guaranteed interviews for eligible applicants and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Motivated individuals with a passion for law and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 34434 - 35412 £ per year.
Salary: £34,434 - £35,412
Hours: 37 hours per week
Location: Carlisle
Contract: Permanent
About This Opportunity
Are you looking to develop your legal career within a supportive, professional and forward‑thinking Legal Services team? We’re looking for a motivated Legal Officer to join us in the Place Legal Team, which covers legal areas of Property, Planning, Highways and Traffic, Enforcement and Prosecution. This role will focus on supporting Rights of Way work, the successful applicant will take responsibility for a varied caseload, with opportunities to grow specialist expertise and progress professionally.
About The Role
As a Legal Officer, you will:
- Manage your own caseload, including non‑routine legal matters within the team’s specialist technical area.
- Support the Council’s regulatory functions, ensuring legal processes are followed effectively.
- Work closely with managers, lawyers and senior legal officers, providing support on a wide range of legal tasks.
- Contribute to service planning, quality assurance and maintaining high standards of legal practice management.
This is a great role for someone who enjoys responsibility, variety and working collaboratively as part of a high‑performing legal team.
Who we’re looking for
We’re looking for individuals who embody our organisation's core values: ambitious, collaborative, compassionate, empowering, and innovative. We believe in the power of these values to drive positive change, deliver excellent public services and shape a better future for our communities. We’re also about potential over perfection and we can help you grow in the role and thrive in your career. Be sure to take a look at the post specification for the essential criteria for this role.
Contact
For more information about the role or to arrange an informal chat prior to your application, please contact Elizabeth Hore by email at Elizabeth.Hore@Cumberland.gov.uk.
Guaranteed Interviews
We offer a guaranteed interview to the following applicants as long as your application can demonstrate you meet the essential criteria for the role:
- Those who consider themselves disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010
- Those in care or who have left care and are aged 24 and under
- Those who identify as a member of the British Armed Forces community (service leavers, veterans, their partners or spouses, reservists, cadets).
Diversity, Inclusion & Adjustments
We’re dedicated to enhancing the diversity of our workforce and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. That’s why we’re a proud Disability Confident Leader and also an Age Friendly Employer – to provide opportunities for everyone to thrive. If you need any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process, please let either the hiring manager or our Resourcing Team know by emailing Resourcing@Cumberland.gov.uk. While adjustments aren’t always guaranteed, we’ll always listen and we’ll try our best to accommodate your needs.
Application and Interview information
Easily apply by submitting your CV and answering a few short questions.
Closing date: 30th March 2026
Interview date: week commencing 13th April 2026
If you experience any difficulties logging in to apply for this role, please contact the HR Systems team at HR.Systems@cumbria.gov.uk. Please note this role may close early subject to demand. If you’re interested in applying, you should apply well before the advised closing date. We cannot accept applications once the role has closed.
Please Read The Supporting Information
Post Specification
Please also refer to our Careers site to find out more: Our Staff Benefits Candidate Support About Cumberland Council
Legal Officer - CMB2411e in Carlisle employer: Cumberland Council
Cumberland Council is an excellent employer for aspiring legal professionals, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in Carlisle. With a focus on employee growth and development, the Legal Services team provides opportunities to manage a diverse caseload while contributing to meaningful public service. The council's commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that all employees can thrive, making it a rewarding place to build your legal career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Officer - CMB2411e in Carlisle
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Cumberland Council, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Officer - CMB2411e in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Cumberland Council, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Cumberland Council and the specific role of Legal Officer - CMB2411e. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Cumberland Council’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cumberland Council
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Cumberland Council.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Cumberland Council.
