Job Purpose
The Legal Officer (Property & Contracts) provides legal advice and support on a broad range of property and contract matters, assisting the Head of Legal & Governance, Principal Lawyer, and wider Legal Team in delivering an effective in-house legal service. The role focuses on property transactions, commercial contracts, and asset management while ensuring legal compliance, managing risk, and supporting the Council's corporate objectives.
- Provide legal advice and support on property matters, including conveyancing, commercial property, estate management, corporate landholdings, and other property transactions.
- Draft, review, negotiate, and approve legal documentation relating to property transactions, commercial property, and contracts.
- Advise on contracts, statutory orders, and associated legal matters where required.
- Manage a personal caseload effectively under the supervision of the Principal Lawyer, ensuring compliance with professional and corporate standards.
- Advise the Council on legal risks associated with property transactions and related matters.
- Support the Asset Management and Property Services Team by providing practical, commercially focused legal advice.
- Advise on common land, open space management, and other land-related legal issues.
- Assist with Information Governance matters, including Freedom of Information and Data Protection requests.
- Work collaboratively within the Legal Team, providing support across the service as required and contributing to departmental objectives.
- Qualified Solicitor, Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX), Licensed Conveyancer, or equivalent legal qualification, or substantial relevant legal experience.
- Experience advising on property law, conveyancing, commercial property, and contract matters.
- Strong drafting, negotiation, and legal research skills.
- Experience managing a varied legal caseload and delivering practical legal advice to internal stakeholders.
- Knowledge of local government legal practice is desirable.
- Understanding of commercial contracts, land transactions, asset management, and property law.
- Familiarity with the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and Data Protection Act 2018.
- Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Full UK driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle.
- Location: Civic Centre, Esher (Hybrid Working)
- Hours: Full-time (36 hours per week)
- Pay: Bi-weekly payments
