At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic housing team, managing cases and mentoring junior solicitors.
- Company: Join a top-tier law firm recognised for excellence and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and excellent career progression.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team committed to diversity and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through impactful legal work.
- Qualifications: Must have 3+ years PQE in Housing Law and strong management skills.
Duncan Lewis Solicitors (Ltd) is regulated by the Solicitor's Regulation Authority and was founded in 1998. We are headquartered in the City of London, with offices nationwide. Recognised by the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK independent legal directories as a top-tier law firm, we service both corporate entities and private individuals in over 25 areas of law across 60 languages.
Our Housing team is ranked and recommended for its services in social housing UK-wide, providing assistance to both landlords and tenants on all housing issues. We handle both publicly funded (legal aid) and privately funded legal services in homelessness, disrepair, eviction, succession for tenants, neighbourhood problems, debt issues, and possession proceedings.
Main Responsibilities of the Role:
- Report directly to and collaborate with the Board to ensure performance targets are met.
- Responsible for all aspects of Housing work including providing technical expertise and guidance to other team members.
- Significant experience in representing clients as Housing Court Duty Scheme over the last 2 years.
- Ability to manage and supervise Solicitors, Trainee Solicitors, and Caseworkers.
- Assisting with delivery of appropriate training and development in the department.
- Variety of duties including dealing with a range of Housing cases such as Homelessness, Disrepair, Eviction, Possession, Property Ownership Disputes, Succession for Tenants, Housing adaptations, Social Housing, and Neighbourhood Problems.
- Dealing with emergency cases and identifying and carrying out strategic litigation.
- Preparing and managing funding applications to the Legal Aid Agency.
- Preparing draft documents including witness statements and processing evidence.
- Professional pro-active approach, strong client care skills, and interest in Business Development and Marketing.
Key Skills Required:
- Must have a clean, valid Practising Certificate at the time of applying.
- 3 Years+ PQE with proven experience of Housing and Litigation, including court representation essential.
- Experience as Duty Advisor under Housing Possession Court Duty Scheme over the last 2 years.
- Must meet the 2013 SQM Supervisor standard in Housing, or willing to work towards this.
- Experience in welfare rights and community care issues.
- Strong management skills and committed team player.
- Previous proven supervisory experience and working to key performance indicators.
- Excellent networking and communication skills.
- Working knowledge of publicly funded Housing work including legal representation and legal help.
- Extensive experience in dealing with all Housing related work.
- Excellent IT Skills - familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills.
- Ability to manage social media activity to promote the Company.
What we offer:
- A fantastic supportive team.
- Excellent progression opportunities.
- Support for appropriate legal awards/recognition.
Duncan Lewis is committed to Equal Opportunities and embraces diversity of its staff. We guarantee an interview for candidates that disclose a disability and meet the essential requirements for the post.
Housing Solicitor Director – Brighton employer: Duncan Lewis Solictors
Duncan Lewis Solicitors is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where innovation meets legal expertise. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, we provide extensive training opportunities and embrace a hybrid-working model that promotes work-life balance. Our inclusive culture, recognised by multiple awards, ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the field of law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Housing Solicitor Director – Brighton
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We think you need these skills to ace Housing Solicitor Director – Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Duncan Lewis Solictors, 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 Duncan Lewis Solictors and the specific role of Housing Solicitor Director – Brighton. 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 Duncan Lewis Solictors’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duncan Lewis Solictors
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solictors.
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solictors.
