Community Law Service (Northampton & County)

JOB DESCRIPTION

POST: SOLICITOR

SALARY:Up to £15,000 - £17,500dependent on experience Mileage and parking will be paid.

HOLIDAYS: 26 days pro rata per annum

HOURS:17.5 hours per week ( Further hours may become available dependent on income generation)

LOCATION:49 - 53Hazelwood Road, Northampton. Also delivering services at the Services other offices in the County and at various county courts as required.

Purpose of Post: Working as part of an established Housing Team and linked to the Service’s Debt and Welfare Benefits Teams you will provide a comprehensive Housing advice service for clients.

ACCOUNTABLE TO:Housing Manager/Supervisor

Main Duties:

  • To provide a comprehensive housing casework service and representation at court for clients eligible for Legal Help and Help at Court under the Service’ Legal Aid contract and through Legal Aid Certificates where appropriate.
  • To contribute to advice, casework and representation for clients not eligible to be funded under Legal Aid as appropriate.
  • To contribute to the delivery of the Housing Possession Court Duty Scheme at the nominated courts as required
  • To deliver services at all of the Service’s permanent offices and at other outreach locations as required.
  • To undertake home visits to housebound clients and attend at outreach venues as required.
  • To comply with the Specialist Quality Mark Standard and Legal Aid Agency contract criteria.
  • To keep up to date with current legislation and policy in housing law and related issues.
  • To provide regular reports on the progress of work to the Chief Executive as required.
  • To ensure that statistical and contract reporting requirements are met and to produce progress reports as required.
  • To liaise and maintain a working relationship with relevant local organisations in both the voluntary and statutory sector.
  • To co-operate with other members of staff in the effective running of the organisation.
  • To participate in staff meetings as required.
  • To perform any other duties as appropriate to the post.
PERSON SPECIFICATION

EXPERIENCE

Essential

  • A minimum of 3 years post qualifying experience as a solicitor or barrister.
  • A minimum of 3 year’s experience of handling a substantial caseload and including representation at court.
  • Experience of Legal Aid work

KNOWLEDGE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Must be a 3 year post qualified solicitor and have a current Practicing Certificate.

Essential

  • Good knowledge of housing law and civil procedure rules. Further training will be available
  • Good understanding of welfare benefits and the debt management process.
  • Knowledge of the Legal Aid Agency Specialist Quality Mark standard requirements.
  • A good understanding of the services offered by the statutory and voluntary sector which are relevant to housing service clients.
  • A good awareness of other areas of social welfare law which may be relevant to housing service clients.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Essential

  • Ability to work to tight deadlines and comply with contract reporting requirements in a timely manner.
  • Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise work.
  • Excellent communication skills – the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Excellent negotiating/advocacy skills.
  • Good computer skills – the organisation operates a computerised case management system called AdvicePro.
  • Good general administrative skills.
  • Ability to prepare and produce statistical and written reports as required.
  • A commitment to equality of opportunity.
  • Self motivated and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
  • The ability to work effectively with other organisations whilst maintaining the confidentiality and independence of the Service.

Applicants must have use of a car and a current driving licence. The successful applicant’s employment is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.