At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage diverse litigation cases and provide strategic legal advice to Southwark Council.
- Company: Join Southwark Council, a leading local authority in London committed to fairness.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a unique benefits package for your well-being.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth and community representation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public service law while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with at least 3 years of litigation experience and strong advocacy skills.
The predicted salary is between 50175 - 57495 £ per year.
As a General Litigation Lawyer at Southwark Council, you will deliver high‑quality legal services, ensuring cost‑effective and legally sound decision‑making. Your expertise will guide the council in key litigation matters.
What you'll be doing:
- Manage a diverse caseload of general litigation matters, including commercial and residential property disputes, contract issues, injunctions, and enforcement cases.
- Provide strategic and tactical legal advice, ensuring Southwark Council remains a leader in public service law.
- Represent the Council in complex and sensitive cases, including advocacy in court.
- Stay up to date with court rules, demonstrating strong file management and efficiency.
- Collaborate with officers at all levels to shape legal strategies and influence key decision‑making.
- Guide the council’s approach to legal challenges, maintaining Southwark’s leadership in public service law.
- Ensure legal compliance in decision‑making, supporting governance and strategy.
- Assess and interpret new legislation, advising on its impact on Council services.
- Attend and contribute to project groups, working groups, and steering panels.
What we're looking for:
- A qualified lawyer, authorised by your regulator to conduct litigation, with at least 3 years’ post qualification experience including 2 years gained handling general litigation and advisory work.
- A current practising certificate as a Solicitor, Barrister, or CILEX Fellow (or eligibility to apply for one).
- Strong case management skills and the ability to handle a varied caseload effectively.
- Confident written and verbal communication, with a collaborative work ethic.
- Advocacy skills with a desire to represent the Council in court.
- Ability to quickly adapt to unfamiliar legal areas, becoming proficient with minimal supervision.
- A solid understanding of, or previous exposure to, public sector legal work, with commercial awareness and ability to identify and manage litigation risk.
Why Southwark?
Southwark Council is the largest local authority social landlord in London. We are committed to making our borough just and fair and aim to increase representation at senior management level in the Council, particularly welcoming applications from members of Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities.
Additional Details:
- Full time, 36 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
- The successful candidate will be expected to work from our offices at 160 Tooley Street and up to two days from home, in line with service requirements.
- This post attracts a market factor payment of 5% in addition to the annual salary applicable, and a hard‑to‑fill benefits package of £2,327 per annum that can be used towards gym membership, health insurance, season ticket purchase, bicycle purchase, additional voluntary contribution to pension, subscription, and professional fees.
Disability Confident (guaranteed interview) scheme Members of the Armed Forces and veterans. Individuals currently in care or who have previously been in care. Individuals who consider themselves disabled or have a long‑term health condition.
General Litigation Lawyer employer: Southwark Council
Southwark Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where you can make a meaningful impact on public service law. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the council provides ample opportunities for professional growth, alongside a competitive benefits package that includes a market factor payment and support for personal well-being. Join a collaborative team dedicated to ensuring fair representation and effective legal strategies in a vibrant borough.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Litigation 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 Southwark Council, 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 General Litigation Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Southwark Council, 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 Southwark Council and the specific role of General Litigation 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 Southwark Council’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southwark Council
✨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 Southwark Council.
✨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 Southwark Council.
