Principal Solicitor (full time, permanent) Airdrie Citizens Advice Bureau - Lanarkshire Community Law Centre

Airdrie CAB is looking for a highly motivated solicitor with the drive and enthusiasm to lead the Lanarkshire Community Law Centre and to grow and expand the organisation for the greater good of residents throughout North Lanarkshire. 

Lanarkshire Community Law Centre was established by Airdrie Citizens Advice Bureau in September 2015 to provide qualified legal representation in areas of unmet legal need across North Lanarkshire. The successful candidate, holding an unrestricted Scottish practicing certificate and at least 3 years PQE will be experienced in general civil legal assistance and have proven skills as a court practitioner. The successful candidate will provide legal advice and representation to individuals facing homelessness or issues which could lead to homelessness working on North Lanarkshire Community Legal Service Project. The law centre also currently has service level agreements with Citizens Advice Scotland, funded via the Scottish Government, to provide immigration advice and assistance to EU nationals resident in Scotland seeking to secure their UK immigration status via the EU Settlement Scheme this is anticipated to continue until June 2021.

Knowledge and experience in and employment law, immigration law, and social welfare law will be advantageous including an understanding of the wider social issues such as debt and welfare, food and fuel poverty. 

The Principal Solicitor is responsible for management of the legal practice ensuring compliance with the Law Society of Scotland’s regulations. The legal practice reports to Airdrie CAB Board of Directors, who are the employer through Airdrie CAB’s Chief Executive. The Principal Solicitor line manages a team consisting of one qualified legal member of staff, specialist lay advisers, and administrative support staff. The Principal solicitor will also provide second tier support and training to CABx and partner agencies across North Lanarkshire. 

The successful candidate will have excellent forward planning, business development, communication and organisational skills and be computer literate. They will have an understanding of the importance of excellent customer care, possess good awareness of how rights and advice issues impact on the local community. They will be an excellent team player with a commitment to equality and diversity. Knowledge of the voluntary sector and successful delivery of projects will be advantageous.