London | Interim Contract

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Property Litigation Lawyer to join HS2 as an Interim Property Counsel, supporting the Head Counsel – Land and Property on a broad range of contentious land and property matters.

This role offers the chance to work on one of the UK's most significant infrastructure projects, advising on complex property disputes and helping to manage legal risk across a diverse portfolio of land and property issues.

The Role
Working as part of the in-house legal team, you will provide advice and support on a wide range of contentious property matters, including:

1. Landlord and tenant disputes
2. Residential, commercial and agricultural possession matters
3. Debt recovery and enforcement
4. Valuation disputes
5. Trespass, access and title issues
6. Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
7. Property litigation strategy and case management
8. Settlement negotiations
9. Court proceedings and trial preparation
10. Property-related notices and documentation

You will work closely with internal stakeholders, external law firms and counsel, ensuring matters are managed efficiently while balancing legal risk, commercial objectives and public sector obligations.

The position will also support wider property matters including acquisitions, disposals, utilities, statutory powers, settlement agreements and discretionary property schemes.

Key Responsibilities

1. Advising on a variety of contentious land and property matters
2. Managing litigation matters from inception through to resolution
3. Supporting dispute resolution and settlement strategies
4. Preparing legal advice, briefings and reports for stakeholders
5. Conducting legal research and advising on legislative developments
6. Managing external legal advisers and associated budgets where required
7. Assisting with the development of standard form documents and best practice processes
8. Supporting compliance and risk management across the business

About You
Applications are welcomed from:

1. Qualified Solicitors or Chartered Legal Executives
2. Candidates with significant experience in property litigation (guideline PQE of 3-10 years, although applications from candidates outside this range will be considered)

You should be able to demonstrate experience in some or all of the following areas:

1. Property litigation
2. Residential, commercial and agricultural tenancies
3. Possession proceedings
4. Debt recovery and enforcement
5. Landlord and tenant disputes
6. Working with senior stakeholders and clients
7. Managing multiple complex matters simultaneously

Experience gained either in-house or in private practice will be considered.
Experience advising government departments, public bodies, utilities, transport organisations or major infrastructure projects would be advantageous.

Skills Required

1. Strong property litigation and dispute management experience
2. Excellent drafting and analytical skills
3. Ability to work in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment
4. Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
5. Effective problem-solving ability
6. Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
7. Ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines

Location
London (hybrid working available, subject to client requirements)

For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.