Are you a newly qualified solicitor looking to develop a broad and rewarding legal career in local government?

Epping Forest District Council is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Newly Qualified Solicitor to join our supportive and highly regarded Legal Services team. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience across a wide range of local government legal work while developing your skills under the guidance of experienced legal professionals.

As a Generalist Solicitor, you will provide legal advice and support to Council officers, Members and partner organisations across a diverse range of matters including governance, contracts and procurement, property, planning, litigation, housing, information governance, employment and regulatory work.

You will manage your own caseload appropriate to your level of experience while working collaboratively with colleagues on more complex matters. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional development and progression within a dynamic local authority legal team.

Key Responsibilities

Provide legal advice and support across a broad range of local government legal matters.

Manage a varied caseload, with appropriate supervision and support.

Draft and review contracts, agreements, reports, legal correspondence and other documentation.

Undertake legal research and provide practical, solution-focused advice.

Attend meetings with officers, Members and external stakeholders where required.

Assist with litigation and advocacy matters, including preparation of court and tribunal documentation.

Support corporate projects and service initiatives by identifying and managing legal risk.

Contribute to the development of policies, procedures and guidance.

Keep up to date with legislative developments and emerging legal issues affecting local government.

About You

The successful candidate will:

Be a newly qualified Solicitor of England and Wales, or be due to qualify shortly.

Have completed a training contract or qualifying work experience demonstrating exposure to a range of legal disciplines.

Possess strong legal research, analytical and drafting skills.

Be able to communicate complex legal issues clearly and effectively.

Demonstrate excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.

Have a professional, proactive and customer-focused approach.

Be committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Have an interest in local government law and public service.

Desirable

Experience gained within local government, the public sector or a related practice area would be an advantage but not a requirement. Full training and support will be available to the successful candidate.

Knowledge of one or more areas of local government law, including governance, contracts, property, planning, housing, litigation or information governance.

Experience of working with a wide range of stakeholders and clients.

Working Arrangements

This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with an expectation of attendance in the office, at meetings, hearings or other Council locations as required.

Why Join Us?

Our Legal Services team plays a key role in supporting the Council's priorities and delivering high quality legal services across the organisation. We pride ourselves on being collaborative, approachable and solution-focused, providing practical legal advice that helps services achieve their objectives while managing risk effectively.

This is an ideal opportunity for a newly qualified solicitor seeking high-quality work, excellent supervision, and exposure to a broad range of local government legal issues that few private practice roles can offer.

Epping Forest District Council takes its name from the forest which runs from its southern boundary northwards and shares boundaries with Greater London and Hertfordshire. The district serves approximately 131,000 residents across a diverse mix of urban and rural communities.

How to Apply

Please submit your application by the advertised closing date using the Apply Online button.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Nicola Sayers, Head of Legal Services, on 01992 564325.

Epping Forest District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.