Principal Litigation Lawyer

Hours: 36 hours per week

Contract: Temporary, Full-time

Seven Resourcing is recruiting a highly experienced Principal Litigation Lawyer for an exciting opportunity within a well-established Local Authority Legal Services team in Essex. This is a senior interim role ideal for an accomplished litigation professional looking for a high-level, flexible local government contract with excellent hourly rates.

This role sits within a supportive, collaborative legal team that is solution-focused and committed to delivering high professional standards while achieving value for money across public sector services.

As Principal Litigation Lawyer, you will act as the Council’s subject matter expert for criminal and civil litigation, providing strategic, technical, and professional legal advice to senior officers and elected members. You will play a key role in shaping litigation strategy and supporting service delivery across multiple directorates.

This is a hybrid role, reflecting modern, flexible ways of working with a strong emphasis on trust, autonomy, and digital collaboration.

• Conduct criminal and civil litigation on behalf of the Council
• Advocate in the Magistrates’ Court and County Court
• Manage housing possession and eviction cases, including anti-social behaviour
• Handle homelessness appeals
• Lead on judicial review proceedings
• Manage defended debt claims
• Conduct licensing appeals and advise on regulatory matters
• Prepare and pursue injunctions
• Lead on planning enforcement prosecutions
• Advise and represent at Licensing Committee hearings
• Provide expert advice on evidential sufficiency and litigation risk
• Draft summonses, claim forms, pleadings, and associated court documentation
• Manage cases from instruction through to conclusion, engaging specialist legal support where required

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, Chartered Legal Executive, or equivalent
• Significant experience in local authority litigation
• Proven advocacy experience in the Magistrates’ and County Courts
• Strong background in criminal and civil litigation within local government
• Experience advising on enforcement action and evidential thresholds
• Skilled in drafting legal documentation for court proceedings
• Ability to manage complex caseloads independently
• Willingness to participate in a Licensing hearing rota (prior experience desirable, training available)

At Seven Resourcing, we are dedicated to helping you build meaningful professional connections and advance your career. With nearly a decade of industry experience, over 3000 five-star reviews, and award-winning services, we provide continuous support and access to exciting opportunities. Join us to make a real impact and further your professional journey.