Derbyshire County Council
Lawyer (Litigation and Governance)
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Closing date: 30 August 2026
We are seeking a skilled and motivated lawyer to join our Litigation and Governance team within Legal Services on a fixed term basis for 12 months pending a restructure. This is a key role supporting the organisation and providing legal and procedural advice on matters associated with information law, trading standards, employment law, civil litigation, and other areas of law impacting upon local government.
As this is a fixed term role, secondments would be considered, but please speak to your current line manager if you wish to pursue an application on this basis.
About The Role
You will provide high-quality legal advice and representation on a wide range of matters, including:
- Lead and support corporate initiatives relating to data protection, information governance, employment law, trading standards, and civil litigation.
- Manage the Council’s compliance with UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, Freedom of Information Act 2000, and Environmental Information Regulations 2004, including handling information requests, investigations, and breach reporting.
- Provide legal advice and support on trading standards, consumer protection, debt recovery, and personal injury claims.
- Provide advice and support in connection with employment matters, including disciplinary, grievance, and capability procedures, and organisational change.
- Handle tribunal claims and settlement agreements, and draft and review employment contracts, policies, and procedures.
- Prepare and present criminal and civil cases before tribunals and courts, including instructing and managing Counsel where required.
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You will work closely with colleagues across the Council, including Legal, HR, senior leadership, elected members, and external stakeholders to ensure legal risk is managed effectively and legal obligations are met.
About You
You will be a qualified legal professional with:
- Demonstrable experience in at least two of the following areas: employment law, information governance law, trading standard prosecutions, civil litigation (including personal injury and debt recovery).
- Strong advocacy and negotiation skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A proactive and solution-focused approach.
Experience in the public sector or local government is desirable but not essential. You must hold a professional legal qualification which confers rights to practise law in England and Wales.
Support & Benefits
- Generous Annual Leave Scheme (27 days increasing to 32 days after 5 years’ service): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
- Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
- Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
- Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counselling.
- Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
- Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
- Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encouraging environmentally friendly commuting options.
- Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
- & much more
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Our Legal Team is contractually based in Matlock, Derbyshire, but we work on a flexible basis which includes options for hybrid working. There'll be an opportunity to discuss future working arrangements at interview.
For an informal discussion about this role please contact Kathryn Zasada, Senior Solicitor, kathryn.zasada@derbyshire.gov.uk
How to Apply
Complete an application form and speak to a member of the team if you would like any more information.
Provisional Interview Date: week commencing 14th September.
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