Overview
As a Newly Qualified Solicitor, you join our Legal Services team to build a broad, rewarding local-government career. You will advise Council officers, Members and partners across governance, contracts, property, planning, and more, with supervision as you handle a varied caseload. You’ll develop practical, solution‑focused guidance while collaborating across teams on corporate projects. This role offers strong development, supportive leadership, and exposure to diverse public‑sector legal work that few private practices provide.
Responsibilities
- Provide legal advice across a broad range of local government matters
- Manage a varied caseload with supervision
- Draft and review contracts, agreements, reports, and legal correspondence
- Conduct legal research and offer practical, solution-focused advice
- Attend meetings with officers, Members and external stakeholders
- Assist with litigation and advocacy, including court/tribunal documentation
- Support corporate projects by identifying and managing legal risk
- Contribute to policies, procedures and guidance
- Keep up to date with legislative developments affecting local government
Key requirements
- Newly qualified Solicitor of England and Wales, or due to qualify shortly
- Completed a training contract or qualifying work experience across multiple legal disciplines
- Strong legal research, analytical and drafting skills
- Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and effectively
- Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
- Professional, proactive and customer-focused approach
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
- Interest in local government law and public service
- strong communication
- organisational skills
- customer-focused approach
- legal research
- legal drafting
- analytical skills
Solicitor - 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.
