A permanent full-time Housing Solicitor post in whg's Legal Team, handling housing litigation for the organisation. The work centres on advising and representing whg in disrepair, tenancy breach, anti-social behaviour and housing condition claims, from case preparation through to hearings in the County Court, Magistrates' Court and First-tier Tribunal. The postholder manages their own caseload alongside the Housing Litigation Manager. Fit depends on qualified solicitor or FCILEX status with at least five years PQE and court advocacy experience.
What the job involves
- Managing a varied caseload including disrepair, rent possession, injunctions, tenancy succession and neighbourhood issues
- Preparing cases for court, drafting pleadings, witness statements and legal documentation
- Representing whg in hearings across the County Court, Magistrates' Court and First-tier Tribunal
- Advising colleagues on legal risks, responsibilities and options relating to social housing
- Working closely with operational teams to support service delivery and case outcomes
- Ensuring compliance with legislation, court procedures, Civil Procedure Rules and professional standards
- Sharing knowledge across the organisation, including informal guidance and updates on changes in law
What’s required
Qualifications
- Law degree or other relevant professional qualification
- Qualified solicitor or FCILEX with 5+ years PQE
Experience
- Legal case management of housing condition claims, including drafting court applications, defences and witness statements
- Court advocacy and case preparation, including presenting at County Court hearings
- Legal case management of housing matters such as tenancy breaches and anti-social behaviour
- Advising on and assisting with litigation, including casework and court appearances
Skills & knowledge
- Knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules and Pre-Action Protocols
- Understanding of social housing law, including legislation and case law
- Excellent written and verbal communication, including explaining complex legal concepts clearly
- Good research and legal drafting skills
- Strong organisation, time management, accuracy and attention to detail
- Proficiency using legal databases and MS Office
Other
- Collaborative team player who adapts well to new challenges and builds relationships with colleagues and third parties
- Resilience when dealing with challenging situations
- Professional propriety with customers who may be distressed during court proceedings
- Keeping up to date with changes in legislation and court procedures
Nice to have
- Experience of using a case management system
What’s offered
- 27 days annual leave plus Christmas shutdown
- Defined benefit pension scheme
- Health cash plan
- Shopping and leisure discounts
- Output-focused, flexible and agile working
- Support for a healthy work-life balance
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Contact Details:
The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team
