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- Tasks: Lead litigation matters and provide strategic legal advice for a local authority.
- Company: Join a progressive local authority in Essex, committed to innovative legal solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and competitive pay rates, with potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while developing your legal expertise in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Executive with 5+ years' PQE.
- Other info: Opportunity for training in Licensing Hearing participation; referrals can earn you £250.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
Service Care Legal are working in partnership with a forward-thinking local authority in Essex to recruit an experienced Locum Principal Litigation Lawyer for a full-time, temporary assignment. This role offers the chance to step into a senior legal position, managing a diverse caseload across civil and criminal litigation within a supportive and progressive team.
LOCATION: Essex / hybrid working
RATE: £55–£60 per hour umbrella / £53.28ph PAYE inc. holiday pay / £47.54 per hour exc. holiday pay
CONTRACT: Initial 3 months with possibility of extension, 36 hours per week
This role offers hybrid working arrangements, with the flexibility to work remotely for the majority of the week.
About the Role
As the Principal Litigation Lawyer, you will act as the key advisor on litigation matters for the council, providing strategic legal guidance to officers and elected members. You’ll handle a varied workload, play a central role in court proceedings, and help shape policy decisions across legal services.
- Represent the authority in County and Magistrates' Courts
- Manage a wide range of legal matters, including:
- Housing possession and anti-social behaviour cases
- Judicial review proceedings
- Homelessness and housing appeals
- Injunction applications
- Licensing appeals and committee support
- Defended debt claims and planning prosecutions
The Person
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Executive (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5 years’ PQE
- Experienced in court advocacy across both civil and criminal litigation
- Competent in legal drafting and case assessment
- Skilled at managing cases through to completion, often independently
- Ideally experienced with local authority licensing and planning enforcement matters
- Adaptable, proactive, and solution-focused in approach
Should this be an opportunity of interest, please feel free to reach out to me on or email across an updated CV for review. We welcome referrals which could be worth £250 each so please also bear this in mind.
Principal Litigation Lawyer employer: Service Care Solutions - Legal
Contact Detail:
Service Care Solutions - Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Litigation Lawyer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal field, especially those who have experience working with local authorities. Attend relevant legal seminars or workshops in Essex to meet potential colleagues and gain insights into the specific challenges faced by local councils.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in civil and criminal litigation, particularly as they pertain to local authority matters. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in court advocacy and how they relate to the specific cases mentioned in the job description. Highlight any successful outcomes you've achieved in similar roles to showcase your capability.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the local authority's recent legal challenges and initiatives. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their current issues during your discussions will show that you are proactive and genuinely interested in contributing to their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Litigation Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in litigation, particularly in civil and criminal cases. Emphasise your qualifications, such as being a qualified Solicitor or Barrister, and include specific examples of your court advocacy and legal drafting skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your interest in the Principal Litigation Lawyer position. Discuss your experience with local authority matters and how your proactive approach can benefit the council. Be sure to mention your adaptability and solution-focused mindset.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your past roles that involved managing diverse caseloads and providing strategic legal guidance. Include any specific cases or projects that demonstrate your ability to handle complex legal issues effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the legal profession.
How to prepare for a job interview at Service Care Solutions - Legal
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
As a Principal Litigation Lawyer, it's crucial to demonstrate your extensive knowledge in both civil and criminal litigation. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled, highlighting your role and the outcomes. This will show your potential employer that you have the experience needed for the diverse caseload.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex legal issues. Prepare examples of how you've navigated challenging situations in court or provided strategic advice to clients. This will illustrate your capability to manage high-pressure scenarios effectively.
✨Understand Local Authority Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal frameworks and regulations relevant to local authorities, especially in Essex. Being knowledgeable about housing possession, anti-social behaviour cases, and licensing appeals will demonstrate your readiness to step into this role and contribute from day one.
✨Emphasise Your Teamwork Skills
While the role requires independent case management, collaboration with other departments is key. Share examples of how you've worked within a team to achieve legal objectives, as this will highlight your adaptability and proactive approach in a supportive environment.
