We are seeking an experienced Litigation and Licensing Solicitor with high levels of motivation and enthusiasm to join the legal team in delivering litigation services to the Council. This role will include prosecutions for breaches of Planning Orders, Council Tax prosecutions, Renters Rights Act litigation and Debt Recovery. You will also undertake licensing work as part of the role, advising the Licensing Committees, and will be involved in Judicial Review proceedings on the Council’s behalf.

The Council’s legal services team is a small, friendly team of specialist lawyers working at the heart of Local Government to deliver supporting legal services which enable the Council’s work across its directorates. The breadth of work undertaken makes this a varied and interesting role for a senior practitioner.

The successful candidate will support the delivery of the Council’s objectives through bringing and defending proceedings before a variety of court jurisdictions. As part of this, some advocacy work may be required although many hearings are undertaken by outside counsel.

Candidates should have a background in general or specialised litigation and should ideally have experience of both defence and prosecution work. Qualification as a Solicitor, suitably authorised Chartered Legal Executive or Barrister authorised to conduct litigation is a pre-requisite for this post. Experience of or interest in housing litigation and debt recovery would be an advantage. Support for further professional development will be provided. Prior experience of conducting litigation at a senior level and providing advice to Members in Local Government is a prerequisite of the role.

Strong interpersonal and organisational skills are essential. You will need to communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and external contractors, demonstrating a professional, diplomatic, and customer-focused approach. You should be self-motivated, well organised, and able to manage your time effectively to meet deadlines. You will be required to brief the Divisional Manager and Senior Leadership Team on cases of note and draft yearly updates for the Corporate Governance and Audit Committee.

For an informal discussion please contact Tiffany Nestour, Divisional Manager, Legal & Democratic Services (Monitoring Officer): tnestour@chichester.gov.uk

Employee benefits include:

• Excellent defined benefits Pension Scheme
• Minimum 26 days holiday going up to 31 days after 5 years (or before with previous service) plus paid Bank Holidays
• Flexi-time (available for most positions) - potential to build up an extra 12 days leave a year
• Flexible working arrangements including some working from home and 9-day fortnight options
• Employee Assistance Programme for staff and their relatives
• Cycle to Work Scheme/Car and Cycle Loan Scheme/discounted city centre parking/ Lease Car Scheme
• Health & Wellbeing initiatives including free health checks and free eye tests plus subsidised leisure centre membership
• Payment of your main professional subscription fee.
• Training and development opportunities – including funding of professional qualification training
• Staff Awards Scheme

Chichester District Council has a commitment to Equality of Opportunity in Employment. If you have a disability which makes it difficult for you to complete our application form please contact the HR Section who will assist you.