Overview
In this role you will provide high-quality legal advice and representation on housing law to the Council, its Members, officers, and partners. You will manage a varied caseload, ensuring compliance with legislation and effective outcomes for the community. You will support housing management operations, raise sector awareness, and train staff as needed, acting as a trusted business partner to internal stakeholders. This role blends expert advocacy, policy input, and strategic risk management within a collaborative Legal Services team.
Responsibilities
- Provide expert legal advice on a wide range of housing matters (homelessness duties, allocations, housing registers, tenancy management, possession, evictions, ASB, disrepair, equality and human rights).
- Advise on policy development ensuring statutory compliance and best practice.
- Manage a varied caseload from instruction to conclusion.
- Advocate or instruct advocacy in courts and tribunals (County Court possession claims, judicial reviews, homelessness reviews).
- Draft legal documents including pleadings, witness statements, and settlement agreements.
- Liaise with external counsel as required.
Key requirements
- qualified Solicitor, Barrister, Legal Executive or equivalent
- experienced advocate in Magistrates and County Court
- experience advising on when to issue or defend proceedings
- strong experience in non-contentious housing management and contentious landlord/tenant matters
- experience managing a large caseload with good outcomes
- knowledge of pre-action protocols and Civil Procedure Rules
- knowledge of statutory/regulatory/common law related to housing management for social landlords
- awareness of the Data Protection Act 2018
- stakeholder management
- clear communication
- problem-solving
- housing management matters
- tenancy management, possession, injunctions
- anti-social behaviour (ASB) legislation
Principle Housing Lawyer – Epping Forest District Council employer: Essex County Council
Essex County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment for Social Workers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young people with disabilities. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, innovative practices, and professional development, our team enjoys a nine-day working fortnight and numerous opportunities for growth within a dynamic local authority. Join us in Chelmsford, where your contributions will be valued, and together we can empower the next generation to thrive.
