At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide high-quality legal advice and manage a varied local government caseload.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council committed to sustainability and community service.
- Benefits: Flexible working, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in local governance while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Permanent, full time, with flexible working arrangements considered subject to service needs.
We are looking for a confident and experienced Senior Lawyer to join our Legal Services team and provide high quality, practical and timely legal advice across a varied local government caseload. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified legal professional who enjoys variety, responsibility and working closely with officers, elected members and senior leaders. You will support the Director Legal and contribute to the delivery of a comprehensive legal service for the council, with work spanning conveyancing and leases, planning obligations, civil and criminal litigation, contracts and wider local government matters.
What you will be doing:
- Providing accurate, timely and solution-focused legal advice to officers, Members, Committees and the Corporate Management Team.
- Drafting, negotiating and completing legal documentation, correspondence, reports, contracts and property-related documents.
- Advising on and drafting planning obligations under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.
- Preparing and conducting civil and criminal litigation, including drafting pleadings and instructing barristers where required.
- Representing the council at inquiries, tribunals, meetings and other forums as required.
- Managing a varied workload independently, prioritising competing deadlines and adapting to changing service needs.
- Contributing positively to the development and implementation of Legal Services policies, procedures and service improvements.
About you:
You will be an admitted Solicitor or a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives, with a good understanding of local government law and practice. You will bring complex legal knowledge in relevant areas such as conveyancing and leases, planning obligations, litigation and contracts, and will be comfortable advising a wide range of internal clients.
We are looking for someone who is organised, accurate and able to work independently, with excellent communication skills and the confidence to provide clear, pragmatic advice. You will be customer focused, flexible in your approach and committed to delivering a high quality legal service in a busy local authority environment.
This post is politically restricted. The postholder will be required to maintain absolute confidentiality and exercise sound judgement and discretion at all times. The role may require attendance at meetings or events outside standard working hours, subject to business needs. Business travel may also be required in accordance with council policies and procedures.
In return, the council offers a range of benefits including:
- childcare scheme (in approved cases)
- training and development
- occupational health programme
- holiday and sickness scheme entitlements
If you are looking to work for an organisation that prioritises environmental sustainability, the council has made a clear commitment to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner and has recently been awarded the silver accreditation of the Investors in the Environment scheme as well as coming 43rd (out of 164) on the latest national council climate scorecard.
For an informal discussion regarding the post please contact Maggie Camp, Director (Legal Services) on 01353 665555.
This post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended 2023) and therefore applicants are required to declare all unspent cautions and/or convictions. You can find more details about our policies for ex-offenders in the Recruitment Policy available on the website.
Senior Lawyer employer: LLG Enterprises Limited
Oxford City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment at the heart of a transformative period for Greater Oxford. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to develop your legal expertise in property, housing, and regeneration while contributing to meaningful public service initiatives. Join a diverse team that values collaboration and innovation, ensuring that you play a vital role in building a world-class city for everyone.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Lawyer
✨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.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
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 LLG Enterprises Limited, 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 Senior Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at LLG Enterprises Limited, 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 LLG Enterprises Limited and the specific role of Senior Lawyer. 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 LLG Enterprises Limited’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at LLG Enterprises Limited
✨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 LLG Enterprises Limited.
✨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 LLG Enterprises Limited.
