At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide practical legal advice on housing and property matters while managing a varied caseload.
- Company: Join SettleParadigm, a leading organisation managing over 30,000 homes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, and flexible hybrid working options.
- Other info: Access to funded training, mental health support, and community volunteering opportunities.
- Why this job: Build your expertise in a supportive environment and influence decision-making.
- Qualifications: Must be an admitted Solicitor with at least one year of post-qualification experience.
Below covers everything you need to know about what this opportunity entails, as well as what is expected from applicants.
Salary: £60,000 + excellent benefits
Location: Wooburn Green, High Wycombe or Letchworth Garden City
Hybrid working: Minimum two days per week in the office and three days from home
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 37 per week
At SettleParadigm, we manage more than 30,000 homes across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. Our in-house Legal Services team supports colleagues across the organisation, ensuring we deliver safe, compliant and high-quality services for our residents.
We are now recruiting a Solicitor with a minimum of one year post-qualification experience. This role is ideal for someone looking to build their expertise, manage a varied caseload and develop within a supportive in-house legal environment.
About the role
You will provide clear, practical legal advice across housing, property and related matters. You will manage a mixed caseload including leasehold management, commercial contracts, data protection issues and property-related litigation. You will also represent SettleParadigm at court, tribunal and other hearings when required. This role offers strong professional development, exposure to complex cases and the opportunity to influence decision-making across the organisation.
Key responsibilities
- Provide practical legal advice on housing, property and related matters
- Manage a varied caseload including contentious and non-contentious work
- Draft and negotiate deeds of variation, easements, licences, commercial contracts and tenancy-related documentation
- Represent SettleParadigm at court, tribunal and other hearings
- Lead cases from instruction to resolution, including instructing external counsel
- Maintain compliance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority Code of Conduct
- Support governance, risk reporting and legal processes
- Contribute to the Legal Risk Register and deliver training where required
- Support continuous improvement and legal awareness across the organisation
What we're looking for
Essential
- Admitted Solicitor of England and Wales with a current practising certificate (or Barrister with equivalent experience)
- Minimum of one year post-qualification experience
- Experience advising on housing or property matters
- Understanding of contentious and non-contentious housing law
- Experience supporting or representing clients in hearings
- Knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules and housing management law
- Strong drafting, negotiation and communication skills
- Ability to explain legal risk clearly to non-legal audiences
- Experience using case management systems
- Experience within a housing association, local authority or social housing practice
Desired
- Experience delivering training or supporting operational teams
- Experience with data protection, development or regeneration matters
Benefits
At SettleParadigm, we believe in creating an environment where our people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow. Our comprehensive benefits and rewards package reflects this commitment.
- Annual salary: £60,000 per annum
- 25 days holiday, increasing with service, plus Christmas closure and buy options
- Generous pension scheme – up to 9.5% employer contribution via salary sacrifice
- Family-friendly leave: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
- Health cash plan – claim up to £1,800 for everyday health costs (plus free kids' cover)
- Life cover and income protection
- Flexible working – hybrid options, modern offices, free parking & EV charging
And that's just the beginning! We're also thrilled to provide:
- Mental Health First Aiders available to support
- Car leasing via salary sacrifice (for permanent colleagues subject to conditions)
- Funded training, qualifications & apprenticeships
- 3 paid volunteering days in the local communities
- Peer-recognition rewards platform
- Paid professional subscription (one per year)
Working Hours
37 hours per week
Monday - Thursday 09:00 - 17:30
Friday 09:00 - 17:00
Our Commitment
We are committed to creating an inclusive workforce, by reflecting and representing the diversity of the communities we serve. We would like to encourage applications from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds; people who identify as disabled, neurodiverse, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from underrepresented groups.
Accessibility and Adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we'll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in advance of any suitable arrangements required.
Due to the nature of some of our roles involving work with vulnerable members of society, this post may be subject to a basic or enhanced Criminal Disclosure, which will be carried out when a conditional offer is made.
Please ensure you fully answer the questions on the application form.
Closing Date: 08/10/2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the closing date should we find a suitable candidate.
Solicitor - 1 year PQE in Bourne End employer: Paradigm Housing
SettleParadigm is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. With competitive salaries, generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional development, we empower our team to grow their careers while contributing to the delivery of high-quality housing services across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire. Join us in building a better future together, as we champion a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor - 1 year PQE in Bourne End
✨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.
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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 Paradigm Housing, 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
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We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor - 1 year PQE in Bourne End
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Paradigm Housing, 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 Paradigm Housing and the specific role of Solicitor - 1 year PQE. 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 Paradigm Housing’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Paradigm Housing
✨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 Paradigm Housing.
✨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 Paradigm Housing.
