At a Glance
- Tasks: Defend housing claims and provide legal advice on housing law.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Council with a supportive team environment.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and exposure to diverse legal areas.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in housing litigation while growing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with experience in housing law and litigation.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in various legal matters.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking a qualified and experienced Solicitor to join our Legal team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering a proactive, cost-effective, and professional legal service to the Council. The primary focus of this role will be defending housing disrepair claims against the Council. You will also have the opportunity to work on a wide range of housing-related matters, including tenancy enforcement, possession proceedings, compliance matters, anti-social behaviour cases, and other housing litigation. In addition, you may support other contentious local government functions giving you exposure to a varied and challenging caseload.
Key Responsibilities
- Defend housing disrepair claims on behalf of the Council.
- Provide legal advice on housing law, policy, and procedure.
- Manage a mixed caseload and deliver high-quality, solutions-based advice.
- Represent the Council in courts, tribunals, and inquiries, including advocacy.
- Advise officers and Members on complex housing matters and related processes.
- Attend committees, sub-committees, and working groups as required.
- Contribute to the development of proactive legal services and best practice.
About You
We are looking for someone who is:
- A qualified Solicitor with significant experience in housing law and litigation.
- Skilled in defending claims and managing a litigated caseload.
- Able to work independently, prioritise effectively, and meet tight deadlines.
- Professional and credible, with strong influencing and interpersonal skills.
- Committed to equality, health & safety, and continuous improvement.
Essential Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor with experience in housing law and litigation.
- Strong knowledge of housing disrepair claims and tenancy enforcement.
- Ability to occasionally attend evening meetings and work outside normal office hours when required.
- Current driving licence or equivalent mobility.
Why Join Us?
- Flexible office-based / remote working.
- Opportunity to specialise in housing litigation while gaining exposure to other areas of law.
- Supportive team environment within a forward-thinking Council.
- Commitment to professional development and training.
If you are eager to be part of a transformative journey and make a tangible impact, West Lancashire Borough Council welcomes your application.
To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Claire Kelly, Principal Solicitor (DMO) via email claire.kelly@westlancs.gov.uk.
Solicitor (Housing / Litigation) employer: West Lancashire Borough Council
Contact Detail:
West Lancashire Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor (Housing / Litigation)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in housing law. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of housing disrepair claims and tenancy enforcement. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! During interviews, highlight your experience managing a mixed caseload and your ability to deliver high-quality, solutions-based advice. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities tailored to your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor (Housing / Litigation)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in housing law and litigation. We want to see how your skills match the key responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about housing law and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it professional but let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific cases or projects that relate to housing disrepair claims and tenancy enforcement. We love seeing concrete examples of your work and how you’ve made an impact.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lancashire Borough Council
✨Know Your Housing Law
Brush up on your knowledge of housing law, especially around disrepair claims and tenancy enforcement. Be prepared to discuss recent cases or changes in legislation that could impact the Council's approach.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Since you'll be representing the Council in courts and tribunals, think of examples where you've successfully advocated for a client. Highlight your ability to present complex legal arguments clearly and persuasively.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to discuss how you've managed a mixed caseload in the past. Share specific instances where you provided solutions-based advice and how you prioritised tasks under tight deadlines.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
The role involves working within a supportive team environment. Be ready to talk about how you collaborate with colleagues and contribute to best practices. Show your commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.