Planning Lawyer

1 year contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• The London Borough of Hackney is seeking an experienced Planning Lawyer to join its Legal & Governance Services within the Chief Executive’s Directorate.

• The role involves managing a varied caseload of routine and complex legal matters with minimal supervision, providing high\-quality legal advice to council services, and representing the Council in courts, tribunals, and external forums.

• The successful candidate will support the Council’s strategic objectives while working collaboratively within an ambitious and modern legal team.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Manage a caseload of routine and non\-routine legal matters with minimal supervision.

• Provide clear, consistent, and accurate legal advice to Council services.

• Undertake advocacy on behalf of the Council in courts and tribunals.

• Draft complex legal documents, reports, and formal correspondence.

• Research, analyse, and interpret legislation, case law, and policy.

• Advise Members, senior officers, and stakeholders on legal, governance, and procedural matters.

• Deliver legal briefings, seminars, and training sessions as required.

• Maintain case files in line with Lexcel, Law Society, and internal practice management standards.

• Use the case management system effectively and achieve chargeable hours targets.

• Supervise junior staff when required.

• Attend and represent the Council at committees, external meetings, and working groups (including evenings when necessary).

• Contribute to service improvement, corporate objectives, and a customer\-focused legal service.

Skills/Experience:

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister (England & Wales), or Fellow of CILEX.

• Proven experience managing complex and high\-volume legal caseloads.

• Strong background in Planning Law and local government legal services.

• Experience providing legal advice within a public sector or local authority environment.

• Advocacy experience in courts and tribunals.

• Excellent legal drafting, research, and analytical skills.

• Experience using legal case management systems.

• Ability to meet chargeable hours and performance targets.

• Strong understanding of local government governance and procedures.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a legal team.

Additional Information:

• The closing date: 13/02/2026.

• Location: London Borough of Hackney.

• Rate: £45–£55 per hour (Umbrella).

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister (England & Wales), or Fellow of CILEX.

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