Solicitor (Housing / Litigation)
Designated Workplace: 52 Derby Street, Ormskirk, L39 2DF
Designated Workstyle: Mobile Office Based Worker
Salary: £44,075 to £47,181 per annum
Post Type: Full Time
Hours: 36 per week
Tenure: Permanent
Published: Friday 16 January 2026
Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Sunday 01 February 2026
Reference: HR-0117-25-R
About the Role
We are seeking a qualified and experienced Solicitor to join our Legal team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in delivering a proactive, cost-effective, and professional legal service to the Council.
The primary focus of this role will be defending housing disrepair claims against the Council. You will also have the opportunity to work on a wide range of housing-related matters, including tenancy enforcement, possession proceedings, compliance matters, anti-social behaviour cases, and other housing litigation.
In addition, you may support other contentious local government functions giving you exposure to a varied and challenging caseload.
Key Responsibilities
Defend housing disrepair claims on behalf of the Council.
Provide legal advice on housing law, policy, and procedure.
Manage a mixed caseload and deliver high-quality, solutions-based advice.
Represent the Council in courts, tribunals, and inquiries, including advocacy.
Advise officers and Members on complex housing matters and related processes.
Attend committees, sub-committees, and working groups as required.
Contribute to the development of proactive legal services and best practice.
About You
We are looking for someone who is:
A qualified Solicitor with significant experience in housing law and litigation.
Skilled in defending claims and managing a litigated caseload.
Able to work independently, prioritise effectively, and meet tight deadlines.
Professional and credible, with strong influencing and interpersonal skills.
Committed to equality, health & safety, and continuous improvement.
Essential Requirements
Qualified Solicitor with experience in housing law and litigation.
Strong knowledge of housing disrepair claims and tenancy enforcement.
Ability to occasionally attend evening meetings and work outside normal office hours when required.
Current driving licence or equivalent mobility.
Why Join Us?
Flexible office-based / remote working.
Opportunity to specialise in housing litigation while gaining exposure to other areas of law.
Supportive team environment within a forward-thinking Council.
Commitment to professional development and training.
To find out more about West Lancashire Borough Council, Please view the attached Role Profile below
If you are eager to be part of a transformative journey and make a tangible impact, West Lancashire Borough Council welcomes your application.
To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Claire Kelly, Principal Solicitor (DMO) via email claire.kelly@westlancs.gov.uk
Related Documents
Apply
Apply Online by following https://westlancsjobs.co.uk/Vacancy.aspx?ref=HR-0117-25-R and clicking the Apply Online button. If you require further information or your application will not submit then please call 01695 577177 or email recruitment@westlancs.gov.uk.
For general employability support please contact the employability team at thenest@westlancs.gov.uk
The successful applicant will be required to undergo security checks as part of the Baseline Personnel Security Standard for accessing Government records. This will include a Basic DBS check.
Please be advised that a criminal record will not necessarily be a bar to obtaining a position with West Lancashire Borough Council. See our Recruitment of Ex Offenders Guidance Leaflet
Equal Opportunities
An Equal Opportunities Employer – Download our Equality Statement
If you are disabled or your last employer was the armed forces, and you meet all the essential criteria of the post, you will; be guaranteed an interview.
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