At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch legal advice and manage a diverse caseload for the Council.
- Company: Castle Point Borough Council, dedicated to community service and professional growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to equal opportunities and community welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in local governance while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with at least 2 years PQE.
The predicted salary is between 52413 - 52413 £ per year.
To provide high quality, customer focussed, professional advice across the Council which is proactive and responsive to the Council’s requirements and business needs. To provide a responsive service providing legal advice in at least one of the following areas: Planning, Commercial, Procurement and Contracts, Governance, Licensing, Information law. To support the Assistant Director (Legal and Democratic Services) in implementing the vision and core values of the Council and provide a clear sense of leadership direction and purpose across Legal and Democratic Services.
Key Responsibilities
- To contribute to achieving the Council’s corporate objectives and priorities.
- To manage a large caseload of wide ranging work, including but not limited to drafting legal letters and contracts, legal agreements, deeds, notices, orders, consents, by‑laws, as well as negotiating agreements, settlements and such matters, managing competing demands and meeting deadlines and the requirements of the Council.
- Where relevant, to prepare and process all matters relevant to any proceedings before a court, arbitration, mediation or public inquiry and to attend such as the client’s advocate or, if appropriate, select and instruct appropriate external legal representation.
- To attend, advise and provide legal services to council Committees and Panels as are required.
- Within the caseload of the team to be responsible for the strategically important legal work and to be the lead expert lawyer for a particular legal area.
- To prepare reports for Committee and attend Committee, where necessary, to present recommendations to Members.
- To research and assist with the proper implementation of legislation affecting the Council including, where appropriate, the seeking of Counsel’s opinion on the effect of statutory enactments and caselaw.
- To provide pragmatic advice across a range of local government work, providing appropriate solutions that are legally and constitutionally compliant.
- Any other duties consistent with the post holder’s responsibilities, qualifications and experience, relevant to the purpose of the job as may reasonably be requested by the Legal and Local Land Charges Manager and the Assistant Director, to include legal training and professional development.
The Experience You Will Bring
- Qualified solicitor or barrister with at least 2 years PQE.
- Knowledge of local government context including council policy and processes.
- Ability to work under pressure and respond efficiently to the changing needs of the clients.
- Good knowledge of relevant legislation to the service area and the decision-making processes and procedures.
- Good understanding of current issues and best practice on service delivery relevant to the service areas.
- Good and demonstrable analytical legal skills.
- Good communication skills, both orally and in writing and good numeracy and analytical skills.
- Ability to respond positively in urgent situations, prioritising workload and working to meet tight deadlines and resolving issues.
- Ability to give clear and concise advice on the telephone, in meetings and in correspondence.
- Understanding the political context in which the council operates.
- Good interaction skills and the ability to influence and persuade effectively and to build and maintain contacts and rapport.
- Demonstrated use of initiative and ability to work individually as well as part of a team and to identify high risk issues which require escalation or immediate action.
Equal Opportunities
Castle Point Borough Council is proud to be a disability confident Leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants if they meet the minimum requirements of the job. We’re also committed to interview all veterans and care leavers, who meet the minimum requirements of the role for which they are applying. Please speak to our Recruiters if you require any reasonable adjustments during the process. Castle Point Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.
Solicitor in Essex employer: Essex County Counci
Castle Point Borough Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. As a solicitor, you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful legal work that directly impacts the community, while enjoying competitive salaries and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Located in Benfleet, the Council fosters a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued, and you can grow your career in local government law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor in Essex
✨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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Essex County Counci, 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 Essex County Counci and the specific role of Solicitor. 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 Essex County Counci’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Counci
✨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 Essex County Counci.
✨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 Essex County Counci.
