Lawyer

As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, at Suffolk County Council we're driven to make a positive difference to the environment, the communities we serve and the careers of our people.
That's why, when you join us as a Lawyer, you'll be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.
Reimagine the possibilities.

Your role and responsibilities
Are you ready to put your legal expertise to work in a role that truly matters? Join our Legal Team where every day brings fresh challenges and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
As a Lawyer, you'll be at the forefront of diverse legal matters from representing the council in all matters relating to civil litigation and dispute resolution. Your keen research abilities and exceptional drafting skills won't just be appreciated they'll be essential as you become the crucial bridge between professionals and stakeholders.
This isn't just about legal expertise; it's about communication mastery. You will transform complex legal concepts into clear guidance, whether in writing or in person. You'll thrive in an environment where multiple cases demand your attention and precise prioritisation skills.
Your expertise will extend to vital matters involving civil proceedings - guiding the council through complex issues. You'll represent the council in proceedings while ensuring our policies remain legally sound and up to date.
As a lawyer within the disputes team, you will be acting on behalf of the Council on a wide range of matters, including debt recovery, judicial review, insurance litigation, personal injury litigation, contract-related disputes and contentious administrative/public law.
By joining our team, you'll deliver high-quality legal services while continuously developing your expertise in a supportive professional environment that values growth and excellence., Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template (Word).
1. Describe a complex legal case you've managed without direct supervision. What challenges did you face, and how did you ensure a positive outcome?
2. Tell us about a situation where litigation seemed likely, but the client's chances of success were not in their favour, what approach did you take and what was the lessons learnt?
3. Tell us about a time when you've had to work collaboratively with colleagues from other teams or departments to solve a complex legal issue.
4. As a Grade 7 Lawyer you will be expected to take on a line management role of Paralegals and Caseworkers. How would you approach this responsibility?
5. As a Grade 7 Lawyer how would you ensure the training and development of those that you line manage?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).

To be a Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive.
- Honours degree (preferably in law), or significant experience as a Lawyer.
- Post- graduate level qualification in law or equivalent experience (Desirable).

For the Grade 7 role, you will need:
- To be a Solicitor, Barrister or Legal Executive.

- 3+ years of legal experience since qualification, and/or the ability to demonstrate relevant legal skills, ability and 3 years+ experience as a solicitor, barrister or legal executive, in the designated legal discipline(s).
- Honours degree (preferably in law), or 3+ year's experience as a Lawyer.
- Post-graduate level qualification in law or equivalent experience (Desirable).

For both roles you will need:
- The motivation to solve legal problems, and a practical, strategic approach to advice.
- Research, analysis and communication skills.
- The ability to manage and process high volumes of documentation and information, to drive clear advice and effective case management.
- Awareness of the political, reputational and financial factors bearing on the council's decision-making.
- To bring your own values, experience and insights to enhance the team and help develop the department as a whole., Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to .

Salary:£40,777 (Grade 6) or £53,788 (Grade 7) per annum (pro rata for part time)
- Hours: 37 hours per week, Flexible working options available
- Contract: Permanent, This authority 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. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid #IND1
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We're driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you'll enjoy:

up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
diverse and active staff networks
flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day

Plus lots more!