Lawyer

Summary

Kent County Council is on the lookout for a qualified Lawyer to join its Legal Services team within the Chief Executive's Department.

This role is pivotal in providing expert legal advice and support across various specialized legal fields, aiding the Council in meeting its strategic goals while ensuring adherence to legal standards, effective governance, and sound decision-making.

The chosen candidate will collaborate closely with Members, senior managers, officers, and external stakeholders, offering expert legal counsel and drafting a diverse array of legal documents.

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.

Requirements

• 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.