At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on trade-related legal issues and support drafting trade agreements.
- Company: Join the Department for Business & Trade, shaping international trade policy.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a dynamic government environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with opportunities to work on high-profile matters.
- Why this job: Build your legal career at the intersection of law and international trade.
- Qualifications: UK-qualified lawyer with 1-2 years’ PQE and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We’re supporting the Department for Business & Trade on an opportunity for a junior lawyer (c.1–2 PQE) to join their Trade team on an interim basis.
This is a great role for someone looking to build experience at the intersection of law, policy and international trade, working on high-profile matters within government.
The role:
- Advising on a range of trade-related legal issues, including international agreements and regulatory frameworks
- Supporting on the drafting and negotiation of trade agreements and related documentation
- Working closely with policy teams across government on live trade matters
- Contributing to wider public law and advisory work as required
About you:
- UK-qualified lawyer with circa 1–2 years’ PQE (or equivalent)
- Experience in public law, regulatory, EU/trade, or commercial matters is helpful but not essential
- Strong drafting and analytical skills
- Able to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Interim Trade Lawyer (Public Sector) employer: Jones Kemp
Joining the Department for Business & Trade as an Interim Trade Lawyer offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful work at the heart of government, where your contributions will directly impact international trade policy. The supportive work culture fosters collaboration and professional growth, allowing you to develop your legal expertise while working alongside experienced professionals on high-profile matters. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on public service, this role is ideal for those seeking a rewarding career in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Trade Lawyer (Public Sector)
✨Get Involved in Legal Networking Events
Jump into local or virtual legal networking events to meet industry pros and get your foot in the door! Use platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup to find gatherings, as these are great for making connections and hearing about temporary roles at firms like Jones Kemp.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a simple online portfolio to showcase your legal work, whether that's case briefs, research papers, or even blog posts on legal topics. This public display can really set you apart when looking for temp roles in law, especially if you can make it relevant to the work that Jones Kemp does!
✨Tap into Law School Resources
If you're near a law school, hit up their career services. They often have leads on temporary positions and can help connect you with alumni working at firms. Plus, they might host workshops or job fairs specific to the legal sector—great for scoring that temp position!
✨Stay Updated with Legal Job Boards
Regularly check specialised legal job boards like LawCareers.Net or TotallyLegal for temporary listings. Many firms post their openings directly there, and applying quickly can give you an edge over the competition when looking to join a prestigious firm like Jones Kemp.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Trade Lawyer (Public Sector)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Legal Know-How:In the legal services world, it's all about demonstrating your understanding of relevant laws and regulations. Make sure your CV highlights your legal training, internships, or any relevant projects you've worked on. If you've done any mooting or legal research, include those too - they can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Application for the Temp Role:Since this is a temporary position, your application should stress your adaptability and readiness to jump in right away. Highlight any previous temp roles where you quickly got up to speed, or any diverse experiences that show you can handle a variety of cases or tasks with ease.
Keep it Specific with Your Documents:Make sure your application includes essential legal documents, such as any relevant certifications or memberships in legal bodies. These can add credibility to your CV and show that you're serious about the profession – especially useful in a competitive field like law!
Express Your Enthusiasm in the Cover Letter:Your cover letter is a golden opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Let them know why you’re excited about this temporary position with Jones Kemp and how you're motivated to contribute to their success during your limited time with them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jones Kemp
✨Show Off Your Legal Know-How
Prepare to discuss your understanding of legal terminology and concepts that might come up during the interview for the Interim Trade Lawyer (Public Sector) role at Jones Kemp. Brush up on relevant laws or recent cases that could be pertinent to the temporary position, as they'll likely appreciate candidates who can think on their feet and adapt to the fast-paced legal environment.
✨Talk About Your Flexibility
Since this is a temporary role, employers want to know you can hit the ground running. Be ready to highlight past experiences where you've had to quickly adapt to new tasks or work cultures. Flexibility is key in a short-term position like this, so share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage changing priorities efficiently.
✨Prepare for the Casework Challenge
You might face hypothetical scenarios where you'd have to advise on a legal issue or case. Practice articulating your thought process clearly, as interviewers in the legal sector often expect candidates to walk them through their reasoning step-by-step. This will not only showcase your legal acumen but also demonstrate your communication skills, which are crucial in law.
✨Pitch Your Legal Portfolio
If you have any relevant work samples, such as briefs, contracts, or legal research, this is your chance to shine! Be ready to discuss what you did, what challenges you faced, and the outcomes. This speaks volumes more than just listing your skills; it shows you're proactive and results-oriented, which is essential for a temporary role at Jones Kemp.
