Legal Officer - Property and Contracts

Esher, United Kingdom | Posted on 01/07/2026

At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors.

In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints. Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions.
Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs. Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens. With an extensive database of over 1 million pre-screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well-positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.

Job Description

3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

The Legal Officer (Property & Contracts) provides legal advice and support on a broad range of property and contract matters, assisting the Head of Legal & Governance, Principal Lawyer, and wider Legal Team in delivering an effective in-house legal service. The role focuses on property transactions, commercial contracts, and asset management while ensuring legal compliance, managing risk, and supporting the Council's corporate objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and support on property matters, including conveyancing, commercial property, estate management, corporate landholdings, and other property transactions.
• Draft, review, negotiate, and approve legal documentation relating to property transactions, commercial property, and contracts.
• Advise on contracts, statutory orders, and associated legal matters where required.
• Manage a personal caseload effectively under the supervision of the Principal Lawyer, ensuring compliance with professional and corporate standards.
• Advise the Council on legal risks associated with property transactions and related matters.
• Support the Asset Management and Property Services Team by providing practical, commercially focused legal advice.
• Advise on common land, open space management, and other land-related legal issues.
• Assist with Information Governance matters, including Freedom of Information and Data Protection requests.
• Work collaboratively within the Legal Team, providing support across the service as required and contributing to departmental objectives.

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor, Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX), Licensed Conveyancer, or equivalent legal qualification, or substantial relevant legal experience.
• Experience advising on property law, conveyancing, commercial property, and contract matters.
• Strong drafting, negotiation, and legal research skills.
• Experience managing a varied legal caseload and delivering practical legal advice to internal stakeholders.
• Knowledge of local government legal practice is desirable.
• Understanding of commercial contracts, land transactions, asset management, and property law.
• Familiarity with the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and Data Protection Act 2018.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a suitable vehicle.

Additional Information

• Location: Civic Centre, Esher (Hybrid Working)