As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, we’re driven to make a positive difference to the environment, the communities we serve and the careers of our people. That’s why, when you join us as a Caseworker, you’ll be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.
Reimagine the possibilities.
Your role and responsibilities
As a caseworker in the Disputes, Employment and Education Team you will have the opportunity to be involved in a wide range of issues and develop your skills as a rounded legal professional.
You will be managing your own case load, in areas including insurance claims handling, debt recovery, education and property tribunals, prosecutions, commercial disputes and more. You will also be supporting the Lawyers in the team by assisting on other contentious matters when the need arises.
You will be fully supported and encouraged to develop a broad and robust legal skillset, including: legal research; gathering, organising and analysing evidence; drafting Court documentation and correspondence; advising client officers and engaging in settlement negotiations. You’ll be learning to solve legal problems in a practical way, as well as developing and applying your legal knowledge. You’ll be offered the training and supervision that you need to fulfil the role effectively, and work collaboratively with colleagues in a close and supportive team.
You’ll also be working closely with client officers and gaining the opportunity to build lasting and satisfying relationships that really make a difference to the organisation.
You will need
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (docx). If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don`t meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
The team
We handle an array of matters which arise from all departments of the council.
We deal with civil claims, including where the council is both claimant and defendant, and obligations arise in debt, contract, tort, statute or public law. We conduct prosecutions arising from fraud and trading standards concerns, take action to protect property rights and enforce planning obligations, and advise and represent the council when it is involved in inquest proceedings.
We conduct employment, education and property Tribunal proceedings, advise on the council’s policies and procedures, and keep officers up to date on key legal developments.
We work with colleagues in our team and others to try to resolve issues without recourse to litigation wherever we can.
We regularly discuss our cases and legal developments, and build in time for supporting and developing each other, sharing knowledge and ideas, and celebrating success.
Our office days are usually on Wednesdays and Thursdays, though there are times when additional presence in the office may be needed, for example to meet client officers or other parties involved in our cases.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report
For more information
Please contact Emily Springford (she/her) for a casual conversation. You can reach her by calling (01473) 260195 or emailing [email protected]
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP) (docx).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template.
1 . Can you describe a situation where you had to negotiate or persuade others in a legal context? What was your approach and the result?
2. Describe a situation where you had to exercise professional judgment in a legal matter. What factors did you consider?
3. Tell us about a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in legislation or legal practice. How did you manage this?
Step 4 - Upload a CV (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage, please contact our Recruitment Team by emailing [email protected] or calling 03456 014412. If you are invited to the next stage of selection, you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.
Closing date: 11.30pm, 5 August 2024
Interview date: 16 August 2024
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid
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