Advocate

You will need to
* provide expert legal advice and representation to services across the Council (excluding safeguarding) with all hearings taking place in public. The postholder will be an excellent ambassador for the Council with their well-prepared and confident advocacy which influences outcomes and enhances the Council's reputation.
* will advise clients in respect of emergency or urgent applications (usually homelessness or anti-social behaviour) and provide representation at court in respect of those cases, including out of hours cover when necessary.
* Lead by example in modelling and embedding the Council's values and behaviours, working collaboratively with colleagues, partners and other stakeholders to help build a sustainable and highly effective organisation and
develop the Council's reputation as a successful council delivering great services. * To provide high quality legal advice and representation across the council within a culture of customer focus, continuous improvement and service excellence.
* To be a role model for more junior staff, assisting them in achieving their career objectives and to maximise their potential.
* To represent the Director of Legal Services on working groups across the Council.
* To research, advise upon and draft reports on a wide range of complex / sensitive issues, ensuring that all relevant considerations are before Members when policies are determined and to attend and advise at cabinet / scrutiny meetings as appropriate.
* To undertake such other duties and tasks as may be required from time to time.

ABOUT YOU
Knowledge & Skills:
* A qualified barrister, solicitor or FILEX Advocate, ideally with Higher Rights of Audience
* Significant and extensive experience of advocacy in the county court and ideally before the Magistrates Court.
* Excellent analytical, written and oral communication skills especially advocacy.
* Substantial and significant knowledge of all aspects of housing law and the ability to develop expertise in other areas of law (i.e. local authority prosecutions).
* Knowledge of the regulatory framework affecting local authorities.
* Ability to proactively provide legal advice and support to customers including Councillors and senior officers.

If you are interested in this role please send your updated CV in the first instance.