Lawyer

• Suffolk County Council
• Address: Endeavour House Ipswich Suffolk IP1 2BX - Hybrid working
• Salary: Starting salary 40777 or 53788 per annum (pro rata for part time)
• Hours: 37 hours per week
• Contract: Permanent

As a modern flexible and effective organisation were driven to make a positive difference to the environment the communities we serve and the careers of our people. Thats why when you join us as aLawyeryoull be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.

Reimagine the possibilities.

Are you ready to put your legal expertise to work in a role that truly matters Join our Legal Team where every day brings fresh challenges and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Your role and responsibilities

You can join us as either a Grade 6 (40777 per annum) or Grade 7 (53788 per annum) Lawyer depending on your experience and pro rata for part time.

As a Lawyer youll be at the forefront of diverse legal matters - from representing the council in all matters relating to the safeguarding of children. Your keen research abilities and exceptional drafting skills wont just be appreciated - theyll be essential as you become the crucial bridge between professionals and stakeholders.

This isnt just about legal expertise; its about communication mastery. Youll transform complex legal concepts into clear guidance whether in writing or in person. Youll thrive in an environment where multiple cases demand your attention and precise prioritisation skills.

Your expertise will extend to vital childcare matters- guiding the council through complex issues. Youll represent the council in Public law proceedings while ensuring our policies remain legally sound and up to date.

In our childcare practice youll help fulfil our obligations to the communitys children and young people providing crucial guidance on child protection fostering and adoption. Your advocacy skills will shine as you handle Public law cases and respond to judicial review claims with precision and care.

In joining our team youll deliver high-quality legal services while continuously developing your expertise in a supportive professional environment that values growth and excellence.

For the Grade 6 role you will need:

• to be a qualified solicitor barrister or chartered legal executive (Fellow) with full rights of audience
• honours degree (preferably in law) or significant experience as a Lawyer
• project management qualification or equivalent experience (Desirable).

For the Grade 7 role you will need:

• to be a qualified solicitor barrister or chartered legal executive (Fellow) with full rights of audience
• 3 years post-qualification experience and be able to demonstrate relevant legal skills and ability in the designated legal discipline(s)
• honours degree (preferably in law) or 3 years experience as a Lawyer
• project management qualification or equivalent experience (Desirable).

For both roles you will need:

• enthusiasm for solving legal problems and a practical strategic approach to advice
• research analysis and communication skills
• ability to manage and process high volumes of documentation and information to drive clear advice and effective case management
• awareness of the political reputational and financial factors bearing on the councils decision-making
• to bring your own values experience and insights to enhance the team and help develop the department as a whole.

You can view a full list of requirements in theGrade 6Job and Person Profile (word)orGrade 7 Job and Person Profile (word). If you believe you can succeed in this role apply. Even if you dont meet all requirements still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

The team

We arean exciting and innovative legal team whose vision is always to provide high quality legal services to the council and beyond. We provide a flexible and dynamic service which is capable of responding quickly to new initiatives and changing priorities. You will be working in the area of Childcare.

Empowering Everyone

Were big believers in potential possibility and the power of different ideas. Were always searching for ways to encourage respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation as shown in ourWorkforce Equality Report.

For more information

Please contactPolly Mannfor a casual conversation. You can reach her by callingor emailing

How to apply

Step 1-Read the Grade 6Job and Person Profile (word)orGrade 7 Job and Person Profile (word)before applying for this job opportunity.

Step 2 -Click Apply Now to start your online application.

Step 3 -Upload asupporting statementanswering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use theSupporting Statement template.

1. Describe a complex legal case youve managed without direct supervision. What challenges did you face and how did you ensure a positive outcome

us about a situation where litigation seemed likely but the clients chances of success were not in their favour what approach did you take and what was the lessons learnt

us about a time when youve had to work collaboratively with colleagues from other teams or departments to solve a complex legal issue.

4. As a Grade 7Lawyeryou will be expected to take on a line management role of Paralegals and Caseworkers. How would you approach this responsibility How would you ensure the training and development of those that you line manage

Step 4 -Upload a CV (without name and personal details).

Please note:Without a supporting statement and CV your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.

We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.

If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage please contact our Recruitment Team by emailingor calling.If you are invited to the next stage of selection you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.

Closing date:11.30pm 25 September 2025

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid