Legal Counsel in Darlington

Legal Counsel in Darlington

Darlington Full-Time 60000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Hays Legal

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide legal advice on commercial and regulatory matters in a growing infrastructure business.
  • Company: Join a dynamic, regulated infrastructure company focused on energy projects in the UK.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and strong career development opportunities.
  • Other info: Modern office with excellent transport links and a supportive team environment.
  • Why this job: Shape legal strategy while working on nationally significant projects with senior stakeholders.
  • Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with at least 2 years' PQE and strong commercial contracts experience.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.

Your new company: This is a rare opportunity to join a growing, highly regulated infrastructure business delivering energy projects in the UK. Working within a collaborative and well-supported environment, you'll play a key role in helping shape the legal strategy of a business developing nationally significant infrastructure with a strong focus on governance, compliance and long-term sustainability. Reporting directly to the General Counsel, you will gain exposure to complex commercial, regulatory and project-related legal matters while working closely with senior stakeholders, external advisers, regulators and industry partners.

Your new role: As Legal Counsel, you will provide commercial legal advice across a broad range of matters, supporting the business through a critical phase of growth and development. This role offers exceptional exposure to large scale projects and the opportunity to develop into a broad, commercially minded in-house lawyer.

Key responsibilities will include:

  • Advising on general commercial and regulatory legal matters.
  • Drafting, reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts, confidentiality agreements and heads of terms.
  • Supporting procurement activities, including advising on risk allocation, indemnities and liability provisions.
  • Managing external legal advisers across specialist areas including planning, consenting and regulatory matters.
  • Providing legal support on infrastructure-related projects.
  • Advising on governance, compliance and regulatory obligations within a highly regulated environment.
  • Assisting the GC with company secretarial and corporate governance matters, including Board support.
  • Helping manage disputes, litigation and arbitration matters.

What you'll need to succeed: Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales or Scotland. At least 2 years' PQE Experience gained in private practice and/or an in-house legal environment. Strong commercial contracts experience, including drafting and negotiating complex agreements. Experience within energy, infrastructure, construction, engineering or other regulated sectors would be desirable. Strong stakeholder management and communication skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and evolving business environment.

What you'll get in return: Competitive salary and benefits package. Hybrid working model with flexibility. Generous employer pension contribution. Excellent annual leave, with the option to buy or sell additional days. Strong opportunities for professional development and long-term career progression. Modern office location with good transport links and on-site parking.

What you need to do now: If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Legal Counsel in Darlington employer: Hays Legal

Join a pioneering organisation at the forefront of the UK's energy transition, where you will have the opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant offshore wind leasing programme. With a flexible part-time contract and hybrid working arrangements, this role offers an attractive day rate and the chance to collaborate with senior stakeholders on complex strategic and regulatory matters, fostering both professional growth and meaningful impact in the renewable energy sector.

Hays Legal

Contact Details:

Hays Legal Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Legal Counsel in Darlington

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 Hays Legal, 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 Legal Counsel in Darlington

Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales or Scotland
Commercial Contracts Experience
Drafting and Negotiating Complex Agreements
Regulatory Compliance
Stakeholder Management
Communication Skills
Risk Allocation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hays Legal, 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 Hays Legal and the specific role of Legal Counsel. 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 Hays Legal’s culture!

How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Legal

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 Hays Legal.

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 Hays Legal.