Location
Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Scope of business
At Geode we strive to fulfil our duty to our clients, the public and the environment. The job of our legal department is to ensure that the best interests of the company are adequately represented and protected.
Scope of role
As a member of our legal department, you will receive first-class mentoring in how to deal with all the legal matters arising from Geode and the Geode Corporate Trust’s business transactions. You will draw up, process and agree contracts, transfers, mortgages and leases and advise Geode (and our clients when appropriate) on the technical content of legal documentation. As a trainee company solicitor, you will represent Geode and the Geode Corporate Trust’s interests in all legal matters, including defending the company in court should the situation arise. The period of this training contract is two years. If successfully completed, a permanent contract of employment will be offered.
Responsibilities / Activities
- Advising managers on the law and legal issues relating to their case.
- Drafting documents, letters and contracts tailored to the case’s or client’s individual needs.
- Meeting and interviewing clients.
- Negotiating with clients and other professionals to secure agreed objectives.
- Researching and analysing documents and case law to ensure the accuracy of advice and procedure.
- Corresponding with clients and opposing solicitors.
- Acting on behalf of Geode and the Geode Corporate Trust in disputes.
- Monitoring government output and informing management of any relevant policy or legal changes that impact our business.
- Keeping up to date with changes and developments in the law by reading journals and law reports.
Skills required
- Applicants must have either a 2.i (upper second class) LLB law degree or have undertaken a non-law undergraduate degree and subsequently completed the Common Professional Examination/Graduate Diploma in Law (CPE/GDL).
- Ideally, candidates will have also completed the one-year Legal Practice Course; however, we will be able to offer sponsorship through the LPC to the right candidate.
- Work experience in relevant field preferred.
- Ability to research, analyse and evaluate complex issues for internal and external consumption.
- Candidates should have self-confidence to advise managers on a variety of legal issues.
- Effective communicator both in writing and orally.
- Ability to build and develop internal and external relationships.
- Well organised and able to manage time effectively.
- Experience in managing multiple projects preferred.
- Must be able to work independently and as part of a team (acting as its leader when required).
- Ability to work well under pressure.
- Must be proficient in Microsoft Office.
Pay for this entry-level graduate position is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.