At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage housing claims from start to trial, drafting legal arguments and collaborating with colleagues.
- Company: Join a supportive council dedicated to improving social housing standards.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a commitment to employee wellbeing and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in social housing law while growing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Cilex Lawyer with civil litigation rights and housing law experience.
The predicted salary is between 32916 - 50000 £ per year.
Working Hours: 35 Hours Per Week
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Closing Date: 02 July 2026
Closing Time: 11.59pm
Interview Method: Face to Face
Legal Right to Work: In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment.
What you’ll do:
- Manage Housing Condition Claims from the initial pre‑action protocol stage through to trial where required.
- Assess liability and quantum, draft responses, and prepare robust legal arguments.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Council and contribute to improving standards and outcomes for tenants.
Qualifications:
- Admitted Solicitor with Practising Certificate or Cilex lawyer with civil litigation practising rights.
- Solid understanding of Housing law and experience in civil claims (personal injury or similar).
- Committed to working in a flexible manner including outside normal office hours, when required.
We’re looking for someone who is:
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, Cilex Lawyer or Chartered Legal Executive.
- Analytical, proactive, and able to work independently while contributing to a team.
- Committed to pursuing a career in‑house in Social Housing law.
Benefits we offer:
- Generous holiday allowance – up to 26 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of service; option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
- Enrolment in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme with options to top up benefits and life cover equal to three times salary.
- Enhanced parental and carers leave.
- Access to a variety of discounts and perks, including travel, telecoms, cycle‑to‑work scheme, free flu jabs, eye tests, and more.
- Learning and development programmes, workshops, training sessions, apprenticeships and qualifications.
- A Good Employment Charter member – committed to secure, flexible work and fair health and wellbeing support.
- Up to 3 days voluntary leave per year.
- We are a Disability Confident Employer and provide workplace adjustments, a disabled staff network, neurodiversity and mental health staff networks, and ensure accessibility standards.
Solicitor / Cilex Lawyer (with Civil litigation rights) employer: Firwood Special School
As a leading employer in the field of Social Housing law, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With generous holiday allowances, access to extensive training programmes, and a commitment to flexible working arrangements, we empower our Solicitors and Cilex Lawyers to thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us in a role where your expertise will contribute to improving standards for tenants, all within a collaborative and dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor / Cilex Lawyer (with Civil litigation rights)
✨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 Firwood Special School, 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 Solicitor / Cilex Lawyer (with Civil litigation rights)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Firwood Special School, 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 Firwood Special School and the specific role of Solicitor / Cilex Lawyer (with Civil litigation rights). 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 Firwood Special School’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Firwood Special School
✨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 Firwood Special School.
✨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 Firwood Special School.