At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal advice on commercial contracts and support parliamentary democracy.
- Company: Join the House of Commons, a key player in UK governance.
- Benefits: Generous leave, excellent pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic legal environment while supporting democracy.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with expertise in contract and commercial law.
The predicted salary is between 60180 - 70204 £ per year.
The House of Commons Administration supports parliamentary democracy by delivering excellent services to the UK Parliament. At the heart of this work is the Office of Speaker's Counsel which provides legal advice to Mr Speaker, the Clerk of the House and teams across the House. The Office comprises of both solicitors and barristers and delivers work across three key areas: general legal advice, scrutiny of domestic legislation, and support for House of Commons Committees.
We are seeking an Assistant Counsel who is experienced in commercial law. They will play a key role in our General Advice Team, providing advice and guidance to departments of the House on construction contracts, other commercial contracts and procurement. The general advice team as a whole covers a very wide range of work including issues of Parliamentary privilege, freedom of information, data protection, employment, health and safety, personal injury litigation, copyright and broadcasting. The postholder will also be required to support other members in the team in the provision of legal advice on other matters as necessary. This role is offered on a hybrid working basis, with an expectation of you spending 40% of your time in the office.
In addition to your salary, we offer an attractive range of benefits including but not limited to:
- Generous annual leave starting at 30 days and increasing to 35 after one full working year.
- Enrolment in the excellent Civil Service pension scheme with an average employer contribution of 28.97%.
- Flexible working options that help you find a balance including enhanced maternity, paternity, shared parental and adoption leave, caring leave and alternative working patterns.
What we're looking for:
- Qualified solicitor or barrister in England and Wales with sound knowledge of contract and commercial law.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to provide clear and concise legal advice on complex issues.
- Strong powers of research and analysis, including the ability to familiarize oneself with a new area of law.
Assistant Counsel (Commercial) in City of Westminster employer: HOUSE OF COMMONS
Joining the Parliamentary Commercial Department as a Contract Management Capability Lead offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the heart of UK democracy while enjoying a supportive and inclusive work culture. With generous annual leave starting at 30 days, a robust Civil Service pension scheme, and flexible working options, employees are empowered to achieve a healthy work-life balance. The role also provides significant opportunities for professional growth through training programmes and stakeholder engagement, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in contract management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Counsel (Commercial) in City of Westminster
✨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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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 HOUSE OF COMMONS, 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 Assistant Counsel (Commercial) in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at HOUSE OF COMMONS, 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 HOUSE OF COMMONS and the specific role of Assistant Counsel (Commercial). 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 HOUSE OF COMMONS’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at HOUSE OF COMMONS
✨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 HOUSE OF COMMONS.
✨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 HOUSE OF COMMONS.
