Lawyer (Redeployment 23856) in Ipswich

Suffolk County Council

Address: Endeavour House, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX, Hybrid working

Salary: £40,777 (Grade 6) or £53,788 (Grade 7) per annum depending on experience (pro rata for part time)

Hours: 37 hours per week, Flexible working options available

Contract: Permanent x 2

This advert is open to current redeployment Suffolk County Council staff only.

As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, at Suffolk County Council we’re driven to make a positive difference to the environment, the communities we serve and the careers of our people. That’s why, when you join us as a Lawyer, you’ll be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.

Your role and responsibilities:

Are you ready to put your legal expertise to work in a role that truly matters? Join our Legal Team where every day brings fresh challenges and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. As a Lawyer, you'll be at the forefront of diverse legal matters from representing the council in all matters relating to civil litigation and dispute resolution. Your keen research abilities and exceptional drafting skills won't just be appreciated they'll be essential as you become the crucial bridge between professionals and stakeholders.

This isn't just about legal expertise; it's about communication mastery. You will transform complex legal concepts into clear guidance, whether in writing or in person. You'll thrive in an environment where multiple cases demand your attention and precise prioritisation skills.

Your expertise will extend to vital matters involving civil proceedings - guiding the council through complex issues. You'll represent the council in proceedings while ensuring our policies remain legally sound and up to date.

By joining our team, you'll deliver high-quality legal services while continuously developing your expertise in a supportive professional environment that values growth and excellence.

We are looking to fill 2 posts, one in the Disputes team and the other in Safeguarding.

As a Safeguarding Lawyer you will be expected to carry out a range of key responsibilities, which will include managing a varied and interesting childcare caseload consisting of both pre-proceedings and applications before the Court. Undertaking advocacy on behalf of the County Council and providing expert legal advice to the Council in respect of its duties and responsibilities in respect of children and young people, including those in respect of adoption.

As an Enforcement Lawyer, you will be acting on behalf of the Council on a range of matters, including planning, fire and rescue and trading standards. Your advocacy skills will shine as you handle cases and respond to judicial review claims with precision and care.

You can join us as a Lawyer at either Grade 6 (£40,777 per annum) or Grade 7 (£53,788 per annum) depending on your experience and pro rata for part time.

For the Grade 6 role, you will need:

• To be a Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive.
• Honours degree (preferably in law), or significant experience as a Lawyer.
• Post-graduate level qualification in law or equivalent experience (Desirable).

For the Grade 7 role, you will need:

• To be a Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive.
• 3+ years of legal experience since qualification, and/or the ability to demonstrate relevant legal skills, ability and 3 years+ experience as a solicitor, barrister or legal executive, in the designated legal discipline(s).
• Honours degree (preferably in law), or 3+ years' experience as a Lawyer.
• Post-graduate level qualification in law or equivalent experience (Desirable).

For both roles you will need:

• The motivation to solve legal problems, and a practical, strategic approach to advice.
• Research, analysis and communication skills.
• The ability to manage and process high volumes of documentation and information, to drive clear advice and effective case management.
• Awareness of the political, reputational and financial factors bearing on the council’s decision-making.
• To bring your own values, experience and insights to enhance the team and help develop the department as a whole.

If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

The team:

We are an exciting and innovative legal team whose vision is always to provide high quality legal services to the council and beyond. We provide a flexible and dynamic service, which is capable of responding quickly to new initiatives and changing priorities.

Empowering Everyone:

We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.

For more information:

Please contact Emily Dundon for a casual conversation regarding the post in the Safeguarding team and Mickaela Green for the Disputes team post. You can contact Emily by calling 01473 26198 or emailing emily.dundon@suffolk.gov.uk and Mickaela by calling 01473 263821 or emailing mickaela.green@suffolk.gov.uk.

How to apply:

1. Read the Grade 6 Job and Person Profile (Word) or Grade 7 Job and Person Profile (Word).
2. Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
3. Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template (Word).

Describe a complex legal case you've managed without direct supervision. What challenges did you face, and how did you ensure a positive outcome?

Tell us about a situation where litigation seemed likely, but the client’s chances of success were not in their favour, what approach did you take and what was the lessons learnt?

Tell us about a time when you've had to work collaboratively with colleagues from other teams or departments to solve a complex legal issue.

As a Grade 7 Lawyer you will be expected to take on a line management role of Paralegals and Caseworkers. How would you approach this responsibility and ensure the training and development of those you line manage?

Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details). Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.

For guidance on completing your application, please see our How to Apply page.

Planning to use Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Please ensure your application still reflects your own skills, experience and ideas. If used inappropriately, your application may not be processed. Please read our guidance for using AI to understand what’s acceptable.

Do you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to apply? If you are disabled and/or have additional support needs, you can request reasonable adjustments. You can do this by contacting our Recruitment Team by either emailing recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or calling 03456 014412. You can find examples of possible adjustments on our Reasonable Adjustment pages.

Closing date: 11.30 pm, 17 June 2026.

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.