Senior Lawyer

About The Role

Working hours: 35 hours per week

Contract type: Permanent

Working style: Hybrid - employees split their time between working remotely and on site

Closing date: 11.59pm, 26 June 2026

Interview method: in person

Interview date: 27 July 2026

Applicants must have an existing right to work in the UK; visa sponsorship is not available.

• Legal right to work: must evidence right to work in the UK before commencement of employment
• References: 2 references, 3 year history where possible
• Qualification: Qualified lawyer or solicitor, registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority

Team & Role Description

The Regulatory and Enforcement Services (Legal) team provides high quality legal advice and representation to council officers and members. The work is fast paced and varied, focusing on protecting public health, safety and the environment in Manchester.

About the Candidate

Essential requirements:

• Qualified lawyer holding a current practising certificate with experience of regulatory work and crime, either as a prosecutor or defence lawyer
• Advocacy experience in contested and uncontested proceedings in the Magistrates Court and a persuasive advocate
• Good communicator, able to advise on complex legal issues clearly in writing and orally
• Analytical and problem solving skills, able to plan and organise time and work effectively as part of a team

Beneficial but not essential:

• Experience of licensing premises or taxis and advising committees
• Knowledge of Civil Penalty Notices under the Housing Act 2004 and related legislation

Benefits

• Generous holiday allowance - 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, 31 days after five years; optional additional leave
• Broad pension scheme - enrolled in the UK's largest local government pension scheme with top up options; life cover three times salary
• Enhanced parental and carers leave - family leave options
• Perks - discounts on shopping, holidays, phone contracts, cycle to work scheme, free flu jabs, eye tests, and more
• Learning and development - workshops, training, apprenticeships, qualifications, comprehensive onboarding
• Employment Charter - secure, flexible work, fair pay, unions, well being support
• Volunteering leave - up to three days pro rate

Equal Opportunity

Manchester City Council is a Disability Confident Employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. No discrimination on race, ethnicity, religion, disability, gender, age or sexual orientation.

Application Support

• Interview adjustments available upon request
• Accessible formats via the Accessibility tools button on the careers page

Assessment Scheme

We guarantee assessments for applicants who meet the minimum shortlisting criteria and identify with at least one of the following:

• Members of the Armed Forces or veterans
• Currently in care or previously been in care
• Disabled or long term condition
• Completed GM Elevate or MCC positive action programme

When You Join Us

We provide a workplace adjustment hub, Disabled Staff, Neurodiversity and Mental Health Staff Networks, and commit to accessibility standards.

Pre Employment Checks

Checks depend on the role; see the role profile for details.

What We Will Need From You If Successful

Evidence of right to work in the UK before commencement of employment. The role is not eligible for sponsorship.

Other Relevant Information

We will provide necessary aids, adaptations or equipment. If any task is unachievable, we will redesign the role.

Contact: Barbara Gora -