Legal Advisor

Are you looking to join a progressive and dynamic local government organisation in Somerset? If so, this opportunity might be perfect for you!

Our client is looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Legal Adviser to join our Property & Contracts Team to deal with a wide range of property matters, including: Sales and purchases; Landlord and tenant / licences; S38 Highway Agreements; Deferred Payment Agreements.

This is a permanent position and the working arrangement is hybrid with 1 days required in the office per week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Transfers of whole and part.
• Investigating title and have knowledge and experience of property related matters, for example, covenants, easements, reservations, and the grant of new rights.
• Drafting, amending and agreement of transfers and other legal property documents including selecting and adapting the right precedents or drafting from new.
• Overage clauses and rights of pre-emption in favour of the organisation – separate overage deeds (including rights of pre-emption) may be required.
• Knowledge and experience of s.106 Agreements – areas of open space may have transferred to the Council under such agreements.
• Attending meetings unsupervised, including virtual meetings with instructing officers and Members and external parties.
• Knowledge of s123 Local Government Act 1972, although the post holder will not be expected to advertise the disposal.

Personal Requirements:

• Graduate member of CILEx and hold a Level 6 Diploma in Law and Practice, having passed Unit 9 (Land Law), Unit 10 (Landlord and Tenant Law) and Unit 17 (Conveyancing), or a qualified solicitor.
• Good working knowledge and practical experience of property work.
• Experience of drafting legal documents and the ability to give clear and accurate legal advice.
• Experience of working in local government legal practice (Desirable).
• The ability to draft, negotiate and complete original documents.
• The ability to understand and analyse legal documents and give clear and accurate legal advice.
• The ability to negotiate effectively to secure the best possible outcomes for the organisation.
• Clear, concise, and modern written, typed, and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain the law and any legal issues and drafting points clearly and simply to maximise the client’s understanding.
• The ability to use all available methods of research.

Working Hours:

Salary Package: £35,412 – £38,220 per annum + benefits package: 27 days annual leave per annum, Flexible working arrangements, Local Government Pension