At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex housing disrepair litigation cases from start to finish.
- Company: Join Southend-on-Sea City Council, a dynamic local authority dedicated to community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; minimum 2 days on-site at the Civic Centre.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on residents' lives while working in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow with experience in housing litigation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Your New Organisation
Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.
Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.
Your new role
Southend City Council are looking to appoint a full-time, permanent lawyer with substantial experience in housing disrepair litigation. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled and committed legal professional with a proven track record in managing complex housing cases to join the Council’s in-house legal service.
You will work under the supervision of the Principal and Senior Lawyers, taking ownership of a varied and demanding caseload. The role requires confident handling of housing litigation, with a particular focus on disrepair cases, dealing with cases from pre-litigation through to conclusion of litigation. This will include high-value and routine disrepair claims, possession proceedings, injunctions, closure orders and enforcement actions.
This is a pivotal position for someone who can work independently, deliver high-quality legal advice, and manage cases from start to finish. A strong understanding of the pre‑action protocol for housing conditions claims and the litigation process is essential. The post includes a combination of routine administrative tasks, as well as the provision of clear written and verbal legal advice representing the Council in County and Magistrates court when required. You will also support colleagues and clients with practical, policy work, and legal guidance, including interpretation of relevant bylaws and statutory frameworks.
This role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Southend residents while contributing to the Council’s commitment to quality housing standards.
Within this position, hybrid working opportunities are available. However, you are required to be on‑site at the Civic Centre a minimum of 2 days a week and be available to attend Court when required.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in the position, it is essential that you are a fully qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives.
It is essential that you have knowledge and proven experience of local authority housing disrepair and housing litigation.
Have experience and knowledge of undertaking advocacy at County Court and Magistrate Court. You are required to be able to keep pace with developments in the law, have good research skills, provide clear and concise legal advice and be familiar with equal opportunities, have good practice and with the council’s requirements for diversity and to implement this in all aspects of working.
You must be able to develop processes and pick up cases with ease.
What you'll get in return
When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.
The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.
R2R103515 - Lawyer - Housing Disrepair Litigation - Permanent in Southend-on-Sea employer: South End City Council
Southend on Sea City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where your efforts directly impact the local community. With 25 days of annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and outstanding training opportunities, employees can achieve a healthy work-life balance while growing their careers in public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R2R103515 - Lawyer - Housing Disrepair Litigation - Permanent in Southend-on-Sea
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific housing disrepair laws and local authority regulations in Southend-on-Sea. Understanding the nuances of these laws will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Southend-on-Sea City Council, especially those in the legal department. They can provide valuable insights into the council's culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising your responses to scenarios involving complex housing litigation cases. This will help you articulate your experience and problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on recent developments in housing law and local government policies. Being knowledgeable about current issues will show your enthusiasm for the role and your ability to adapt to changes in legislation.
We think you need these skills to ace R2R103515 - Lawyer - Housing Disrepair Litigation - Permanent in Southend-on-Sea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in housing disrepair litigation and local authority work. Use specific examples of cases you've managed to demonstrate your expertise.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives. Emphasise your understanding of the pre-action protocol for housing conditions claims and your advocacy experience.
Showcase Relevant Skills:In your application, highlight key skills such as legal research, clear communication, and case management. Mention any experience with advocacy in County and Magistrates Court to strengthen your application.
Express Your Motivation:Convey your passion for improving housing standards and making a difference in the community. Explain why you want to work for Southend-on-Sea City Council and how you align with their values.
How to prepare for a job interview at South End City Council
✨Know Your Housing Law
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of housing disrepair litigation and local authority regulations. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled and how you navigated the legal processes involved.
✨Demonstrate Advocacy Skills
Since the role requires advocacy at County and Magistrates Court, be ready to share examples of your courtroom experience. Highlight any successful outcomes and your approach to presenting cases effectively.
✨Showcase Your Research Abilities
The interviewers will want to see that you can keep pace with legal developments. Prepare to discuss how you stay updated on changes in housing law and how you apply this knowledge in your work.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Support
As this role involves working closely with colleagues and clients, be sure to highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've supported others in a legal context and contributed to a positive working environment.
