Durham County Council - Employment Lawyer

Are you a skilled legal professional with a passion for employment law and public service? Join our dynamic Legal Services team and make a real impact by supporting the Council with high-quality legal advice and advocacy.

About the Role

As a Lawyer (Employment), you’ll play a vital role in delivering expert legal support across a range of employment and pensions matters. You’ll represent the Council in courts and tribunals, draft legal documentation, and contribute to investigations under the Members Code of Conduct.

You’ll also attend and present at formal and informal meetings, including Cabinet, Committees, and working groups, offering clear and confident legal guidance. Collaboration is key, and you’ll provide support to colleagues and junior staff, helping to foster a culture of excellence and continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality legal advice and advocacy on behalf of the Council.
• Manage a caseload of employment and pensions matters.
• Represent the Council in courts and tribunals.
• Draft legal documentation appropriate to the role.
• Conduct investigations under the Members Code of Conduct.
• Attend and present at Council meetings and working groups.
• Undertake legal research and contribute to team knowledge.
• Support and supervise junior team members.

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate (we will also consider candidates who are about to qualify and have completed all academic stages).
• Substantial experience in employment law and related areas, including advocacy.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, case law, and best practice.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A proactive, collaborative approach to problem-solving and service delivery.

Why Join Us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a supportive and forward-thinking legal team, where your expertise will help shape fair and effective employment practices across the Council. We value professional development and offer opportunities to grow your skills and career.

For more information please visit: Working as an employment lawyer - Durham County Council

For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact Brian Gallagher via brian.gallagher@penna.com or call 07716 098175

How to Apply

1. Upload your CV under “Please select one of the options below.”
2. Complete the short mandatory fields on the next page.
3. Use ‘Add Attachments’ to upload your Supporting Statement and any other documents.
4. Ensure both CV and Supporting Statement are uploaded before submitting your application.

You can download the role profile here: Job Description

Please note that this campaign may close early if a suitable candidate is found.