Principal Lawyer Litigation and Housing (Full Time)

Principal Lawyer Litigation and Housing

Salary

£53,051 to £58,258

Expires

01/11/2026

Location

Huddersfield, West Yorkshire

Job Type

Full Time

The Role

We are looking for an enthusiastic, hardworking Lawyer to take on a leadership role within our Litigation and Housing Team .

• We are particularly seeking someone with experience in public sector, housing law, including advising on housing policy and procedures as well as conducting or overseeing housing‑related litigation. There will be scope to develop skills in the other areas covered by the team which include general civil and commercial litigation, public law, education, employment, and wider local government matters.

The Team

You will join a team of experienced Lawyers, Legal Officers, and Paralegals supported by a dedicated Business Support Team.

Development and Progression

We place a strong emphasis on training and personal development and will support you to be the best you can be. This role is an excellent springboard into senior legal management .

What You Will Bring

You will be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister or a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives with a current practising certificate in England and Wales.

You will be creative, energetic and well‑organised, able to manage a personal caseload, and confident in leading, supervising and mentoring less‑senior colleagues.

Experience Required

You will have substantial experience in civil litigation and public sector housing practice , plus desirable experience in any of the following:

• Commercial Litigation
• Property Litigation
• Local Government Law
• Education Law
• Employment Law
• Judicial Review

Your experience will have been gained within the jurisdiction of England and Wales.

Experience of supervising or managing staff — or the aptitude to do so — is also required.

Your Benefits

Kirklees Council offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 28.5 days annual leave, rising to 32.5 after 5 years’ service (plus bank holidays)
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Travel and parking discounts
• Employee‑friendly policies, including carer support and exceptional maternity and paternity leave
• Local Government Pension — an exceptionally attractive defined benefit scheme
• Life assurance from day one
• Access to Employee Healthcare services (counselling, physiotherapy, health assessments)
• Flexible and hybrid working supported by modern IT systems
• Modern, spacious office environment
• High‑quality supervision and management support
• A professional culture of proactive advice and collaboration
• Payment of professional fees
• A strong commitment to ongoing development, mentoring and training — all managers in Legal Services are experienced, highly regarded lawyers committed to your growth and advancement.

We know there's a wealth of talent among people who have a disability and we encourage applications from people with all differing abilities. So, if you need any support completing an application form, or any other format for the application or Job Description please contact the Recruitment Team for help by email: or phone: and ask for 'Recruitment'.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We encourage you to read our AI Guidance before submitting your application to ensure your supporting statements reflect your own authentic experience.

Closing date

01 November 2026, 11:55 PM

Company: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Salary: £53,051 to £58,258

Location: Huddersfield, West Yorkshire

Sector: Corporate Services

Sector: Legal

Sector: Regeneration and Local Economies

Job Role: Solicitor

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