Principal Legal Officer

Hours: 37 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

Location: Civic Hall Leeds

Leeds City Council is a progressive authority which works closely with local communities and businesses and partner agencies to create a vibrant and economically thriving city. Our anti-social behaviour (ASB) legal team is highly regarded in the region, local courts and West Yorkshire Police.

We are looking for a qualified lawyer with experience in, or knowledge of ASB law and litigation, who will be required to undertake a substantial personal caseload of contentious and non-contentious legal professional work in anti-social behaviour law.

Leeds City Council is one of the largest employers in the region with over 14,000 employees. We seek to recruit and develop talented individuals who embody our council values and ambitions.

About You

• An enthusiasm to work with partner agencies to find solutions for unique anti-social behaviour cases and bring respite to those affected;
• An objective mindset ensuring that a “One Council” approach is maintained;
• The ability to be the advocate in applications appropriate to your grade in the County Court and Magistrates Court;
• A “can do” attitude and the ability to work as part of a team, be flexible, enthusiastic and committed to supporting the work of the wider Legal Service.

About The Role

The role is integral to the council’s ambitions and Safer Leeds Strategy to combat ASB across the city. In doing this role you will make a real difference to the people of Leeds who have been blighted by anti-social behaviour.

You will advise on a wide range of ASB and housing possession matters, working closely with council colleagues and third parties to find pragmatic and innovative solutions to issues; and make the case in a courtroom as an advocate or with a barrister.

As part of a small team, you will work closely with a more senior advocate dedicated to ASB casework also. The role has the opportunity for promotion for the right candidate.

What We Offer You

• A competitive salary and annual leave entitlement plus statutory holidays;
• Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions;
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements subject to service requirements;
• A clear career pathway and continuing professional development opportunities;
• A range of staff benefits to help you boost your wellbeing and make your money go further.

How To Apply

Click apply for redirection to the council's recruitment platform to upload your CV and a personal statement of no more than 500 words.

If you have any queries or would like an informal chat about the role please contact Richard des Forges, Team Leader by calling 0113 3789073 or email Richard.desforges@leeds.gov.uk

Interviews will take place in May/June.

We welcome applications from everyone and actively seek a diverse range of applicants from all backgrounds and cultures. We particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to, women, carers, veterans as well as LGBT+, ethnically diverse, disabled and care experienced people.

This role is based in the UK. Home Office guidance states that candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment, either as a UK or Irish citizen, under the EU Settlement scheme or having secured any other relevant work visa.

If you do not have the right to work in the UK, you must consider your own eligibility for sponsorship for a particular role through the Skilled Worker visa route before applying. To be eligible for sponsorship you'll usually need to be paid the standard salary rate of at least £41,700 per year or meet one of the other eligibility criteria. Ensure you are eligible before applying.