At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle diverse legal cases in countryside and public rights of way, from research to presentations.
- Company: Join Staffordshire County Council, a progressive authority focused on innovation and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, flexible working, employee discounts, and a local government pension scheme.
- Other info: Remote work options available, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: CILEX Advanced Paralegal or equivalent with knowledge of relevant law and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Staffordshire County Council is a modern, progressive and forward-thinking authority that is ambitious and empowers its employees to be courageous and innovative in their approach. Staffordshire Legal Services is a large in-house corporate legal team, consisting of lawyers, trainees and support staff, with a key focus on staff training, retention and progression. The service supports the County Council in the delivery of its objectives by providing quality services to support every single function in the Council including Environment and Countryside, as well as to a wide range of external clients.
The successful candidate will undertake a rewarding varied caseload of countryside and public rights of way related matters so previous experience of these specialisms is essential, within either public sector or private practice.
There are a number of benefits to working at Staffordshire County Council including:
- generous holiday entitlement
- flexi time
- annual leave purchase scheme
- employee discounts
- local government pension scheme
- optional car lease scheme
- staff parking discount scheme
We understand the importance of a work-life balance and currently offer remote working with attendance at our Stafford office on flexible patterns and in accordance with business need. We are also happy to consider requests for part-time working.
Main Responsibilities
- Progressing Definitive Map Modification Applications to conclusion, including investigation, research, writing reports and presenting to a Panel of Members.
- Drafting and serving legal Orders and Notices, submissions to the Secretary of State, and attending public hearings and inquiries in relation to the same.
- Providing general legal advice on countryside and public rights of way matters including legal research.
- Adhering to the Legal Services Unit’s LEXCEL quality standards.
- Such other duties as may reasonably be required including providing assistance with the drafting of Committee reports to more junior members of the team, and checking the same.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a CILEX Advanced Paralegal, or equivalent, with:
- Knowledge of the law relating to countryside and public rights of way
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise a varied workload
- Strong I.T skills
Interviews will be held during the week commencing 28th September 2026.
Our Recruitment Process: We anonymise applications during shortlisting to ensure only relevant information is considered. Please note: The minimum criteria in the ideal candidate section detailed above will be used if you are applying under one of our Interview Guarantee Schemes.
About Staffordshire County Council: We are no ordinary county council. Our values were created and shaped by colleague feedback and national best practice and they sit at the heart of People Strategy. We have a real sense of community spirit that brings our people together. This feeling of belonging means we are all connected to what we do and take pride in the difference we make every day for Staffordshire people. We are ambitious and our sights are set firmly on a better future.
Our benefits: We recognise that it is our employees that are central to everything we do. We aim to create a supportive working environment where employees can achieve their full potential and achieve a healthy work-life balance. In addition to your salary, as a member of staff, you will have access to our rewards and benefits.
As an Authority, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Staffordshire County Council is an equal opportunities organisation and Disability Confident employer. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities. As part of our commitment as a Disability Confident employer, a Gold Award Armed Forces employer and our commitment to supporting care leavers - we offer a guaranteed interview as long as your application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
Legal Officer in Stafford employer: WMJobs
Worcestershire County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment for Social Workers in the picturesque Malvern Hills area. With a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to employee well-being, you will thrive in a culture that values collaboration and innovation. Join a dedicated team where your contributions are recognised and where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those you support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Officer in Stafford
✨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.
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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 WMJobs, 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 Legal Officer in Stafford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at WMJobs, 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 WMJobs and the specific role of Legal Officer. 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 WMJobs’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨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 WMJobs.
✨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 WMJobs.
