£58,310 per annum (plus market supplement)

Devon County Council is entering a transformative period, embracing Local Government Reorganisation to create a modern, efficient, and locally grounded authority. As we move towards Local Government Reorganisation, our ambition is to deliver better services, stronger leadership, and greater value for money, while strengthening our capability for innovation and future-proofing statutory duties. This is an exciting time to join a council at the heart of a growing and confident South West, where your expertise will help shape the future of legal services and local government. 
 
About the Role

As Specialist in the Litigation Team you will be an experienced senior local government legal expert in civil litigation and judicial review, entrusted with the most complex and high-profile cases that influence strategic decisions across Devon. You will play a pivotal role in protecting the Council’s interests, supporting the delivery of effective services to vulnerable people and the wider community, and enabling the Council to achieve its strategic priorities. 
  
Your responsibilities will include: 

• Providing expert written and oral legal advice on civil litigation matters and judicial review, often in matters of significant complexity and strategic importance.
• Representing the Council in complex cases at court, tribunals, panels, and committees, ensuring our best interests are protected and legal spend is minimised. 
• Supporting senior leadership in shaping legal strategy and policy, and influencing the development of key frontline services. 
• Enabling services to adopt streamlined, efficient, and robust approaches to legal issues, driving continuous improvement and cost-effectiveness. 
• Mentoring and developing junior lawyers, building in-house expertise and supporting succession planning. 
• Acting independently and with minimal supervision, demonstrating sound judgement, adaptability, and the ability to manage competing priorities and urgent deadlines. 
• Deputising for senior managers as required, and supporting budget management, recruitment, and resourcing. 
• Your work will have a significant impact on the Council’s financial and reputational standing, and on the wellbeing of residents across Devon.

About You

You’ll be an experienced solicitor, barrister with rights to conduct litigation or CILEX lawyer with litigation rights, with a proven track record in advocacy and complex casework. You thrive in high-pressure environments and can confidently represent the Council in court or tribunals. Your ability to provide clear, persuasive advice and deliver strategic solutions will set you apart.

• Expertise: Significant knowledge in local government civil litigation and judicial review. 
• Advocacy Skills: Comfortable with examination and cross-examination of witnesses and delivering compelling submissions to the judiciary. 
• Collaboration: A team player who builds strong relationships across services, influencing outcomes and supporting colleagues to develop robust legal approaches. 
• Values: Committed to public service, safeguarding vulnerable people, and contributing to efficient, cost-effective legal solutions that make a real difference to the citizens of Devon. 
• Personal Attributes: Resilient, proactive, and adaptable, with excellent communication skills and a passion for continuous improvement.

Why Join Devon County Council?

Joining Devon County Council means becoming part of a forward-thinking organisation committed to transformation, excellence, and public service. 

You will: 

• Shape the future of local government and legal services during a time of significant change. 
• Work on cases that matter, with strategic impact across the county and beyond. 
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements, generous leave, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package—including a substantial employer pension contribution and market supplement. 
• Be part of a team that values inclusion, collaboration, and professional development, offering opportunities to lead, innovate, and make a real difference. 
• Benefit from a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and knowledge transfer. 

Devon County Council Strategic Plan 2025–2029 

Everything we do is guided by our vision for a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Devon. Our six strategic priorities are: 

•     Positive futures for our young people
•     Supporting independence and dignity 
•     Continuous improvement of services 
•     A green Devon for future generations 
•     Economic inclusion and local prosperity 
•     Stronger communities and safer places 

Find out more about our strategic priorities at  Devon County Council's Strategic Plan 2025-2029.
   
For an informal discussion about this role please contact Hazel Union on 01392 380296 or at hazel.union@devon.gov.uk

Closing date: 25 January 2026 

For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.