Finstech are pleased to advertise an exciting temporary opportunity for an experienced Locum Property Lawyer on behalf of our client.

The successful candidate will provide a comprehensive legal service to council members and officers, delivering high-quality, accurate legal advice across a range of matters relating to local authority work.  Working under the direction of the Heads of Legal Services, the Locum Property Lawyer will manage their own caseload efficiently using case management, time recording, and electronic records management systems.

This is a varied and dynamic role that includes advising at business meetings, council committees and sub-committees, and supporting the wider legal team. The role may also require attendance at court, tribunals, or public inquiries as necessary.

This is a temporary, full time (37 hours a week), fully remote role offering £75 an hour for a qualified legal professional with a strong background in property law and local authority work.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide high-quality, accurate legal advice (orally and in writing) across a range of local authority legal matters
• Take instructions, issue document or proceedings and negotiate and advise on transactional cases and settlements
• Operate and maintain case management, time recording, and electronic records management systems
• Attend and advise at business meetings, council committees and sub-committees (including area committees; day and evening attendance may be required)
• Attend court, tribunals, or public inquiries and represent the client as legal advisor where required
• Review committee reports, advising on applicable law, monitoring compliance with policy and highlighting legal implications
• Assist and support the development of other members of the legal team
• Adapt to variations in duties as required, within the general scope and level of responsibility of the role

What We’re Looking For

Essential:

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives (FILEX); or a willingness to work towards such qualifications alongside considerable relevant experience
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD)
• Detailed specialist knowledge in at least one major area of legal practice: Property, Planning, Commercial Contracts, Litigation, or Housing Disrepair

Desirable:

• Proven experience of providing legal advice, representation, and the ability to develop knowledge in new areas
• Experience of acting as advocate at court, tribunals, or public inquiries (where required by the specialism)
• Experience drafting legal documents and designing procedures for complex or novel situations
• Demonstrated business acumen, including awareness of business development and shared service opportunities
• Ability to interpret and apply council policies
• Proven research skills and ability to identify and manage risk
• Demonstrable use of technology to improve business effectiveness

Key behaviours:

• Strong self-management: able to manage your own caseload and competing priorities under demanding deadlines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills across all levels, both internal and external
• Ability to work effectively on own initiative and collaboratively as part of a team
• Skilled at developing and maintaining effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Effective project management skills
• Sound understanding of equal opportunities and diversity in employment and service delivery