Lawyer

Lawyer – 3 Month Contract (TBC)

Summary

Areas of Specialism

Planning

• Handling planning applications
  
• Managing planning appeals
  
• Addressing enforcement matters
  

Highways

• Expertise in highways law
  
• Knowledge of Public Rights of Way
  
• Experience with Village Green matters
  

Property

• Managing acquisitions and disposals
  
• Handling leases and licences
  
• Conducting general property transactions
  

Contracts & Commercial

• Public procurement
  
• Subsidy control
  
• Works and service contracts
  
• Concession contracts
  
• Health-related service contracts
  

Litigation

• Conducting Judicial Reviews
  
• Handling Human Rights Act claims
  
• Managing discrimination claims
  
• Overseeing debt recovery
  
• Engaging in general civil litigation
  

Responsibilities

• Offer specialized legal advice in one or more practice areas.
  
• Draft contracts, agreements, notices, reports, and other legal documents.
  
• Serve as the Council's legal advisor in meetings.
  
• Represent Legal Services in both internal and external meetings and working groups.
  
• Develop effective working relationships with Members, officers, and stakeholders.
  
• Conduct legal research and maintain expertise in specialized legal knowledge.
  
• Support the commissioning and management of external legal advice when necessary.
  
• Prepare reports and legal briefings for senior officers and decision-makers.
  
• Accurately record chargeable legal work.
  
• Ensure adherence to Legal Services quality procedures and standards.
  
• Contribute to the Council's broader strategic and corporate goals.
  

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current Practising Certificate.
  
• At least 2 years of post-qualification experience (PQE).
  
• Demonstrated experience in one or more of the specialized legal areas mentioned.
  
• Strong skills in legal drafting and advisory.
  
• Excellent legal research capabilities.
  
• Experience in managing tight deadlines and competing priorities.
  
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Legal Case Management Systems.
  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
  

Personal Qualities

• Professional and approachable demeanor.
  
• Strong collaborative working style.
  
• Flexible and adaptable approach.
  
• Commitment to delivering high-quality legal services.
  
• Ability to work proactively and under pressure.
  

Kent Values

• We Are Brave – Making the right decisions and embracing challenges.
  
• We Are Curious – Committed to continuous learning and improvement.
  
• We Are Compassionate – Showing respect and understanding towards others.
  
• We Are Strong Together – Sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues.
  
• We Are Responsible – Taking ownership and accountability.
  

What's on Offer?

• £49.77 per hour (Umbrella)
  
• 3 Month Contract (TBC)
  
• Hybrid Working
  
• Opportunity to work within a highly regarded Local Authority Legal Services team.
  
• Diverse and varied legal caseload across specialized practice areas.
  
• Exposure to significant local government projects and decision-making.
  
• Potential for contract extension opportunities.