Location
London Borough of Brent with hybrid working: 2 days per week working from home and 3 days at the Civic Centre and other locations as required.

Hours
36 hours per week

Salary
£58,461 - £65,181 per annum (PO6/PO7) including London weighting

About the Role
Join Brent Council’s vibrant Legal Service in a borough known for its rich diversity and dynamic community. The Financial Litigation Team is seeking a Senior Lawyer to support the Principal and Chief Lawyer by managing a caseload of debt recovery matters across various council departments. This role involves instigating county court proceedings, enforcing judgments, and providing expert legal advice on debt recovery, arrears of Adult Social Care fees, and enforcement issues.

The Senior Lawyer will actively support departmental management, assist with the day-to-day running of the team, and supervise junior staff. Responsibilities include investigating and allocating cases, responding promptly to advice requests, engaging in dispute resolution including mediation, instructing Counsel and costs draftsmen when necessary, and efficiently using the council’s case management systems (training provided).

This is a permanent position offering the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking council undergoing significant transformation to better serve its community.

Experience
Extensive knowledge of civil procedure rules and practice is essential. Experience in debt recovery, enforcement, and handling arrears of Adult Social Care fees is highly desirable. Proven ability to manage a caseload of complex financial litigation matters and familiarity with instigating and defending claims in county courts.

Experience in supervising junior staff and supporting team management is required.

About you
We are looking for an organised, proactive, and flexible team player with strong leadership skills. The ideal candidate will demonstrate aptitude for quickly understanding and progressing a wide range of cases, and the ability to work collaboratively within a busy legal team. You will report directly to the Principal and Chief Lawyer.

You should be committed to delivering excellent service, adaptable to change, and motivated to contribute positively to Brent Council’s transformation agenda.

Qualifications
Qualified solicitor or equivalent legal qualification with relevant experience in financial litigation and debt recovery.