Legal Counsel in Essex

Job description

Contract: 12-month fixed term (extension may be possible afterwards)

Location: Hybrid with 1+ days per week in-office (Essex)

Hours: Part-time, this can be flexible over 2-4 days/week or just mornings/afternoons as preferred

Industry: Public Sector

A respected public sector organisation is searching for an experienced Employment Lawyer on a flexible, part-time basis for an initial 1 year contract.

The Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Employment Lawyer with 5+ years PQE to provide high-quality legal advice and strategic guidance on complex people and employment law matters within a specialist public sector environment.

Working as part of a supportive team, you will play a key role in managing sensitive employment issues, supporting senior stakeholders, and reducing litigation risk through proactive legal and policy input.

The position offers part-time flexibility (2-4 days per week) and hybrid working, with only one office-based day per week required.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on complex employment matters including discrimination, harassment, whistleblowing, pay disputes, pensions, restructures, TUPE, disciplinary hearings, and unfair dismissal.
• Conduct in-depth legal research and keep the organisation informed on relevant case law, statutory updates, and sector-specific regulations.
• Prepare concise, high-quality reports and briefing papers with clear legal recommendations.
• Draft, review, and advise on a variety of employment-related documents, including policies, contracts, and agreements.
• Deliver training and guidance to internal teams, supporting upskilling in employment law compliance and risk management.
• Collaborate with HR, Professional Standards, and Learning & Development teams to enhance internal capability and ensure best practice.
• Maintain accurate records and contribute to governance, audit, and continuous improvement processes.
• Take responsibility for maintaining professional knowledge and CPD.

About You

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive, holding a current practising certificate.
• Minimum 4 years' experience handling employment tribunal matters (respondent or predominantly respondent background preferred).
• Experience advising public sector clients is advantageous but not essential.
• Strong understanding of unionised environments and public-sector employment frameworks.
• Excellent advocacy, drafting, and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, practical advice.
• Strong organisational ability and resilience in managing multiple priorities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to professional standards.

Interested?

If you're an experienced employment lawyer who thrives on complex, purpose-driven work in a public-sector environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Extra information

Status

Closed

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Essex

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English