Governance Solicitor / Deputy Monitoring Officer

Location: London, UK
Contract: Locum

About the role

Our client, a London local authority, is looking for an experienced Governance Solicitor to join its legal team on a locum basis, with responsibility for acting as Deputy Monitoring Officer. The role provides legal advice on the council’s governance arrangements and supports the Monitoring Officer in ensuring that decisions are taken lawfully, fairly and transparently.

You will advise members and senior officers on the constitution, decision-making processes, committee procedures and standards matters. The work includes attending meetings, reviewing reports for legal and governance implications, and giving clear, timely advice in a politically sensitive environment.

The role suits a solicitor who is confident working with elected members and chief officers, and who can balance day-to-day governance advice with more complex matters as they arise. Previous experience in local government governance will help you settle in quickly.

Main responsibilities

• Act as Deputy Monitoring Officer, deputising for the Monitoring Officer as required
• Advise members and officers on the constitution, including delegations, procedure rules and decision-making powers
• Provide legal advice at council, cabinet and committee meetings
• Review committee and decision reports for legal and governance implications
• Advise on member conduct and standards matters, including complaints and investigations
• Support the review and maintenance of the council’s constitution
• Advise on access to information, the call-in process and related transparency requirements
• Support electoral and democratic services colleagues on legal queries as they arise
• Prepare clear written advice and guidance for members and senior stakeholders
• Maintain accurate records of advice given and matters handled

Requirements

Essential

• Qualified solicitor, barrister or Chartered Legal Executive, or equivalent legal qualification
• Substantial post-qualification experience in local government law
• Sound knowledge of local authority governance, decision-making and standards frameworks
• Experience advising elected members and senior officers
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload to deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Desirable

• Previous experience acting as Deputy Monitoring Officer or in a comparable governance role
• Experience of advising at formal committee meetings
• Experience of handling member conduct investigations
• Experience of a London borough or similar authority

The offer

• Locum position based in London
• Rate, start date and duration to be confirmed with candidates
• The chance to work at the centre of council governance alongside an established legal team

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