At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex housing law cases and advise on policy development.
- Company: Kirklees Council, a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with mentorship opportunities and minimal office days.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on housing services and influence policy decisions.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with housing law experience.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 56494 £ per year.
This is a senior housing law role with real influence. You’ll act as a subject matter expert across a broad housing law remit, supporting the Council on complex, high-profile matters and helping shape how housing services are delivered in practice. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders, including the Director of Housing, and have a genuine voice in how legal input informs decision-making, advising on housing litigation strategy, policy development, and the legal frameworks underpinning housing delivery. You’ll join a well-established and collaborative litigation team made up of experienced lawyers, legal officers, and paralegals. There’s a strong support structure in place, allowing you to focus on high-quality legal work.
What you’ll be doing:
- Managing a varied caseload of complex housing and property litigation matters
- Acting as a trusted adviser on all aspects of housing law, including policy and governance
- Supporting the development and implementation of housing strategy from a legal perspective
- Advising on wider local government matters where required, including public law issues
- Working closely with senior officers and elected members, providing clear, pragmatic advice
- Supporting and mentoring junior lawyers and legal officers
- Sharing light-touch management responsibilities with other Principal Lawyers in the team
About you:
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with a current practising certificate
- Strong experience across housing law, ideally including litigation, policy, and advisory work
- Broader exposure to areas such as property litigation, public law, or local government law
- Confidence operating at a senior level, with the ability to influence and challenge
- A collaborative mindset and willingness to support the development of others
- Some supervisory experience or the aptitude to take this on in a light-touch capacity
Why this role stands out:
- Genuine influence – direct access to senior leadership and input into housing policy
- Breadth of work – not just disrepair, but the full spectrum of housing law
- Flexibility – minimal office requirement and a supportive hybrid setup
- Shape your role – scope to lean into your interests and strengths over time
Principal Housing Lawyer employer: Kirklees Council
Kirklees Council is an excellent employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its staff and the community. With a supportive work culture, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students, this role as a Pastoral Wellbeing & Policy Coordinator offers a rewarding experience in a collaborative environment. Located in a vibrant area, employees benefit from a strong sense of community and the potential for a permanent position after the initial contract.
