At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide high-quality legal advice on planning matters and manage a varied caseload.
- Company: Join the Shared Legal Services Team supporting Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence local government transformation and develop professionally.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping public services and support your community.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in planning law and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Shared Legal Services Team supporting both Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council. As Senior Planning Lawyer, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality legal advice and support across a broad range of planning matters. You will work closely with officers, members and colleagues to help deliver the councils' priorities while managing a varied and interesting caseload.
The role includes advising on planning applications, enforcement matters, planning appeals, planning obligations, judicial review challenges and other matters relating to the councils' planning functions. You will also attend and advise Planning Committees and provide support and mentoring to junior members of the team. Approximately 90% of your time will be spent undertaking casework, with the remaining 10% focused on supporting the management and development of the team.
About you
- Significant experience of planning law and practice.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Experience of advising committees, members and senior officers.
- The ability to manage a varied caseload and work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
- Local government experience is desirable, although applications from candidates with relevant transferable experience will be considered.
Ready to join us? For an informal discussion about the post, please contact James Tong, (Principal Lawyer - Planning) on 01483 523083 or Michael Elford (Legal Services Manager) on 01483 523019. Closing date for applications is 9:00am on Monday 17th August 2026 and we expect interviews to be held on the 31st August in Guildford.
Equality and Inclusion Statement: The district is home to many different people, and we want our workforce to reflect our diverse local communities. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences – we are a Disability Confident employer and appoint on merit.
Please note we do not accept applications after the stated closing time. Right to work in the UK will be checked as part of the interview process.
From April 2027, Guildford Borough Council and Waverley Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey unitary council, following the government’s confirmed plans for local government reorganisation across Surrey. This change will see the current twelve councils replaced by two new authorities, East Surrey and West Surrey, with West Surrey taking responsibility for the areas currently served by Guildford, Waverley, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath and Woking.
As we move towards this transition, our focus remains firmly on delivering high-quality, value-for-money services and staying true to our shared organisational values of Collaboration, Wellbeing, Trusted, Value for Money and Professionalism.
Together, we will ensure a smooth transition and continue to deliver exceptional services for residents both now and into the future.
Senior Planning Lawyer in Guildford employer: Waverley Borough Council
Waverley Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises community impact and employee well-being. With flexible working arrangements and generous benefits, employees have the opportunity to grow within a collaborative environment while making a meaningful difference in the lives of local residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Lawyer in Guildford
✨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 Waverley Borough 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 Senior Planning Lawyer in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Waverley Borough 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 Waverley Borough Council and the specific role of Senior Planning 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 Waverley Borough Council’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Waverley Borough 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 Waverley Borough 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 Waverley Borough Council.
