QUALIFICATIONS

Solicitor (with current Practising Certificate), Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives or paralegal/lawyers with equivalent knowledge and experience

GENERAL STATEMENT

The information contained in this job description is provided to assist employees joining the council to understand and appreciate the work content of their post and the role they will play in the organisation. However, the following point should be noted:
· Whilst every endeavour has been made to outline all the duties and responsibilities of the post, a document such as this does not permit every item to be specified in detail. Broad headings, therefore, may have been used, in which case all the usual associated routines are naturally included in the job description.

THE ROLE

We are seeking a Legal Officer to join our Legal team on a full-time, permanent basis. Ideal candidates will be Solicitors, Chartered Legal Executives, or experienced local authority paralegals/lawyers with a strong background in council legal matters. The role demands a dedicated, detail-oriented professional with excellent teamwork and communication skills. A commitment to equality, diversity, and exceptional customer service is essential.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct the Council’s legal affairs, including representation at Courts, Tribunals, Planning Inquiries and, where necessary, to instruct Counsel.
• Attend and advise at council committee meetings and other miscellaneous democratic and governance related meetings and groups.
• Represent Legal Services in internal and external meetings, offering clear, proactive guidance and managing associated legal and administrative tasks.
• Draft and review contracts, agreements, legal notices, and advise on procurement matters
• Carry out debt recovery on behalf of the Council including the enforcement of judgements.
• Advise on Data Protection and Freedom of Information issues
• Manage legal aspects of regulatory enforcement and anti-social behaviour cases
• Deal with planning and licencing matters
• Oversee standard property transactions, including leases, licences, acquisitions, and disposals, engaging external legal support as required.
• Perform other reasonable legal duties as assigned.