Employment Solicitor

6 Month Contract With A local Authority

To provide a high-quality and effective employment law service to the Council, its Members, Directorates, and Officers. The postholder will manage a varied employment law caseload, provide specialist legal advice, represent the Council in employment-related proceedings, and support the Council in achieving its objectives while ensuring legal compliance and minimising risk.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of employment law matters, including Employment Tribunal claims, disciplinary and grievance issues, redundancy, discrimination, whistleblowing, and other employment-related disputes.
  


• Prepare and conduct Employment Tribunal cases, including drafting ET3 responses, witness statements, disclosure documentation, hearing bundles, and settlement agreements.
  


• Represent the Council at Employment Tribunals, disciplinary hearings, appeal hearings, and committee proceedings where required.
  


• Provide clear and practical legal advice, both verbally and in writing, to Council Directorates, Officers, Elected Members, and senior stakeholders.
  


• Advise on TUPE matters arising from organisational change, service transfers, and outsourcing arrangements.
  


• Instruct and manage Counsel where appropriate, including appeals and complex litigation matters.
  


• Draft, review, and negotiate legal documentation relating to employment law matters.
  


• Ensure all work is undertaken in accordance with relevant legislation, professional standards, and Council policies.
  


• Support risk management by identifying legal issues and recommending appropriate solutions.
  


• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to the efficient delivery of Legal Services.
  

Requirements

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate.
  


• Significant experience handling a broad range of employment law matters within local government, public sector, or private practice environments.
  


• Experience managing Employment Tribunal cases from inception through to hearing.
  


• Strong knowledge of employment legislation, case law, and TUPE regulations.
  


• Experience drafting legal documents, pleadings, settlement agreements, and tribunal documentation.
  


• Ability to provide practical and commercially focused legal advice to a range of stakeholders.
  


• Excellent advocacy, negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  


• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage a varied caseload and meet competing deadlines.
  


• Proficiency in legal case management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Hybrid Working / Council Offices
  


• Hours per Week: 37 hours per week
  


• Payment: Bi-weekly payments