At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage civil litigation and housing-related cases while mentoring junior colleagues.
- Company: Join Kirklees Council's dynamic Litigation and Housing Team with a focus on professional growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28.5 days annual leave, flexible working, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Supportive environment with excellent training and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public sector housing law and develop your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with substantial experience in civil litigation and housing law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are looking for two enthusiastic, hardworking lawyers to take on leadership roles within our Litigation and Housing Team. Each role has a distinct focus:
- In one role, the focus is on civil litigation, much of it housing-related. There is also scope to develop your skills across other areas handled by the team, including commercial and property litigation, public law, education, employment, and wider local government matters.
- In the other role, we are particularly seeking someone with experience in public sector housing law, including advising on housing policy and procedures, and conducting or overseeing housing-related litigation. There is also scope to develop skills in the other areas covered by the team.
The Team: You will join a team of experienced lawyers, legal officers and paralegals, supported by a dedicated business support team.
Development and Progression: We place a strong emphasis on training and personal development and will support you to be the best you can be. This role is an excellent springboard into senior legal management.
What You Will Bring: You will be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister or a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives, with a current practising certificate in England and Wales. You will be creative, energetic and well-organised, able to manage a personal caseload, and confident in leading, supervising and mentoring less-senior colleagues.
Experience Required: You will have substantial experience in civil litigation and/or public sector housing practice, plus desirable experience in at least two of the following:
- Housing Law and Litigation
- Commercial Litigation
- Property Litigation
- Local Government Law
- Education Law
- Employment Law
- Judicial Review
Your experience will have been gained within the jurisdiction of England and Wales. Experience of supervising or managing staff — or the aptitude to do so — is also required.
Your Benefits: Kirklees Council offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 28.5 days annual leave, rising to 32.5 after 5 years’ service (plus bank holidays)
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Travel and parking discounts
- Employee-friendly policies, including carer support and exceptional maternity and paternity leave
- Local Government Pension — an exceptionally attractive defined benefit scheme
- Life assurance from day one
- Access to Employee Healthcare services (counselling, physiotherapy, health assessments)
- Flexible and hybrid working supported by modern IT systems
- Modern, spacious office environment
- High-quality supervision and management support
- A professional culture of proactive advice and collaboration
- Payment of professional fees
- A strong commitment to ongoing development, mentoring and training — all managers in Legal Services are experienced, highly regarded lawyers committed to your growth and advancement.
John Chapman is the manager for this role, please contact them on 01484 221000 for an informal discussion, or if you need any more information.
Principal Lawyer Litigation and Housing employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Kirklees Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its legal professionals within a supportive and collaborative environment. With a strong commitment to training, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave and a robust pension scheme, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Joining our Litigation and Housing Team not only offers a chance to lead in impactful legal matters but also provides a clear pathway to senior management roles in a modern and dynamic office setting.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
