Vivid Resourcing
Contract: Locum
About the role
Our client is looking for an experienced Disrepair Lawyer to join its team on a locum basis. The role centres on the day-to-day management of housing disrepair claims, from the initial assessment of a case through to settlement or, where necessary, court proceedings.
You will take responsibility for your own caseload, reviewing evidence, assessing liability and quantum, and progressing matters in line with the relevant pre-action protocol and court deadlines. You will also keep clients and other parties updated at each stage and give clear advice on the strengths and risks of each claim.
The role suits a lawyer who can step into a live caseload quickly and work independently, while communicating well with colleagues, clients and third parties such as surveyors and experts. Prior experience of housing disrepair claims will help you settle in from day one.
Main responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of housing disrepair claims from instruction through to resolution
- Review tenancy documents, repair histories, correspondence and other evidence to assess liability and merits
- Comply with the Pre-Action Protocol for Housing Conditions Claims and manage claims in line with court rules and timetables
- Instruct and liaise with surveyors and other experts, and review their reports
- Assess and advise on quantum, including general damages and special damages
- Draft letters of claim, responses, statements of case and other litigation documents
- Negotiate settlements and prepare matters for hearings where required
- Provide clear updates and advice to clients throughout the life of a claim
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date case records and file notes
- Work within compliance, risk and quality procedures
Requirements
Essential
- Proven experience handling housing disrepair claims in England and Wales
- Sound working knowledge of landlord and tenant law, including statutory and contractual repairing obligations
- Understanding of the pre-action protocol and civil litigation procedure
- Ability to manage a varied caseload independently and to deadlines
- Strong drafting, negotiation and communication skills
- Good attention to detail and organisational skills
Desirable
- A recognised legal qualification (for example Solicitor, CILEx or equivalent), or equivalent practical experience
- Experience handling claims for both social and private sector housing
- Experience of case management systems used in litigation practice
The offer
- Locum position
- Location, rate, start date and duration to be confirmed with candidates
- The chance to work on a varied housing disrepair caseload and make an immediate contribution to the team
If you are an experienced Disrepair Lawyer looking for your next locum role, this position offers hands-on, varied claims work with a team that needs someone who can get started quickly. Apply below.