Employment Solicitor

The Employment Lawyer is responsible for assisting in the provision of an efficient effective and high-quality legal service to the Council its Members Directorates and Officers with a particular focus on employment law matters.

The postholder will provide legal advice and representation on a broad range of employment-related issues including disciplinary matters grievances Employment Tribunal claims TUPE matters settlement agreements and employment policies ensuring the Councils interests are protected and legal obligations are met.

• Manage a varied caseload of employment law matters on behalf of the Council.
  
• Prepare and conduct Employment Tribunal cases including drafting ET3 responses witness statements disclosure case bundles and settlement agreements.
  
• Provide legal advice verbally and in writing to Directorates Officers and Elected Members on employment law matters.
  
• Advise and represent Directors and officers at disciplinary hearings appeals and related employment proceedings.
  
• Provide advice relating to TUPE and organisational change processes.
  
• Represent the Council at Employment Tribunals hearings appeals and committee meetings where required.
  
• Instruct and liaise with Counsel where specialist representation or appeals are necessary in the Councils best interests.
  
• Ensure all legal proceedings are managed effectively and in accordance with procedural and statutory requirements.
  
• Build effective working relationships with Members Officers external legal representatives and stakeholders.
  
• Provide practical solution-focused legal guidance to support operational and strategic decision-making.
  
• Contribute to the delivery of a responsive and customer-focused legal service across the organisation.
  
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation tribunal procedures Council policies and professional standards.
  
• Maintain accurate legal records case files and documentation.
  
• Support equality diversity safeguarding data protection and health & safety responsibilities in all areas of work.
  
• Undertake continuous professional development and participate in performance review processes.
  
• Undertake additional duties commensurate with the level of the post as required by the Head of Law & Governance or Principal Lawyer (Corporate & Litigation Services).
  
• Promote collaborative working and contribute to achieving Directorate and Council objectives.
  
• Represent the Council professionally and uphold corporate values and standards at all times.
  

• Experience handling employment law matters including Employment Tribunal litigation and advisory work.
  
• Strong knowledge of employment law tribunal procedures TUPE and employee relations matters.
  
• Experience preparing legal documentation pleadings witness statements and settlement agreements.
  
• Experience providing legal advice to senior managers elected members or public sector clients is desirable.
  
• Understanding of local government legal frameworks and governance arrangements is advantageous.
  
• Strong advocacy negotiation and case management skills.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Ability to provide clear practical and commercially focused legal advice.
  
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a legal team environment.
  
• High level of professionalism discretion and attention to detail.
  
• Qualified Solicitor Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate.
  
• Evidence of continuing professional development relevant to employment law.
  
• Commitment to equality diversity safeguarding and excellent public service delivery.
  
• Compliance with DBS/CRB requirements where applicable.
  
• Valid driving licence and access to a vehicle insured for business use may be required.
  
• Commitment to complying with Council policies including Health & Safety and Data Protection requirements.
  

• Location: Dudley DY1 1HF
  
• Payment: Bi-weekly payments