Principal Legal Officer - Leeds (Local Authority role)
Initial 3-6 month contract
Rate: Negotiable (Umbrella)
37 hours per week, Hybrid working
Solicitor/barrister/CILEX with advocacy certificate for Childrens Social Care Law.
- Undertake a substantial personal caseload of complex legal professional work, primarily children’s social care legal work. The post holder will be expected to provide support in at least one other area of law covered by the section, and any other local government legal matters as required.
- Support the generation of external income in the section and across the service and take an active role in coaching and mentoring staff within the section and service.
- Undertake a substantial complex personal caseload of children’s social care legal work and other areas covered by the section as required.
- Represent council colleagues and other clients in proceedings in tribunals, the County Court and (subject to rights of audience) Higher courts, including in relation to contested proceedings.
- Conduct investigatory and preparatory work as necessary to ensure effective presentation of cases to Court and advise as to the progression of cases and the value of particular strategies.
- Draft and issue court proceedings and other documentation such as instructions to counsel as necessary
- To draft legal documentation, agreements and advice.
- Foster and deliver a “can do” attitude with regard to all aspects of the role, including advising and supporting colleagues, clients and members; contributing to change; and increasing external income generation.
- Establish, develop and maintain effective relationships with a range of internal colleagues, external stakeholders and parties including Members, directors and senior officers to improve and enhance service delivery.
- Maintain an awareness of all legislative and case law developments which might impact on the work of colleagues and clients and advise them as appropriate
- Provide legal advice and support to committees and advice to clients both orally and in writing, in relation to complex matters.
If you have any questions about this role or wish to apply, please contact isobel@deekay.co.uk who will respond at the earliest convenience.