Vacancy - Solicitor

Since Release’s inception in 1967, the organisation has continuously and actively advocated for open access to justice for all individuals with a specific emphasis on substance misuse and dependency. By addressing the legal needs of people who use drugs and those in recovery the consequences can have a profound and positive affect not only for the individual but also for those who live, support and work with them. Reducing health and income inequalities’ significantly improves a person’s life chances and integration back into their community. Whilst legal services are available to the public via other sources, our client group will often be unable to access such services because of fear of stigma or discrimination.

The deadline for this post has been extended to allow for more applications.

Application closing time & date: 5.00 pm on Monday 05 June 2023
Interviews to be held: Week commencing 12th June 2023
Start date: As soon as possible
Salary: £33,820 – £38,296 p.a. based upon PQE plus 3% pension
Contract Type: Full time, Permanent
Holidays: 29 days plus public holidays
Location: Office (Aldgate, London)/Working from home. Occasional site visits to remote legal outreach services.

**(Please note: We are unable to provide feedback to those who are not shortlisted)

Release has recently expanded the number of legal services we deliver in centres supporting people with drug dependency and/or those experiencing homelessness. 
We invite applications for the Solicitor post from those who share our commitment to supporting the legal and human rights of people whose lives are affected by drug use and drug policy. As a member of our dynamic legal team, based in London, your responsibilities will include:

  • To deliver high quality legal services to clients of drug treatment centres/ homeless projects/sexual health clinics in the London area, and when necessary and with training deliver our 'virtual' legal outreach service to clients of drug treatment services located in the North and East of England, Berkshire and Lincoln;
  • Managing and completing casework resulting from our legal outreach services on issues including welfare benefits, housing, and debt. In the coming months we will be expanding our services to include immigration advice and representation
  • Providing advice to the public and professionals about legal issues connected with drug use (training will be provided);
  • Updating our specialist publications;
  • Contributing to our local and National policy commentary/response on drugs, and all associated legislation.

Release does not currently hold a legal aid contract, but we wish to develop a housing litigation service and are reviewing our processes with a view to tendering for a contract in 2024. The successful candidate will work with the management team towards this goal.

Requirements for the post includes:

  • Successful completion of Training Contract
  • Preferred 1 years’ experience in any of the following areas of law in a professional setting:  
    • social security advice and representation; 
    • housing litigation; 
    • Criminal practice; 
    • Immigration practice.

Applications also welcomed from those working outside these areas of law.

The successful candidate will have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check upon appointment. 

An employment reference(s) will also be requested upon appointment.

For further information, or an informal and confidential discussion regarding the position, please contact the Head of Legal Services – Stephen Cutter on 0207 324 2991 or via email: stephen@release.org.uk

Applications should be sent to recruitment@release.org.uk (attachments should be clearly denoted with the applicant’s name, and should not collectively exceed 5MB). 

Applicants will receive a confirmation email of receipt.

Application Check List

*Please Note: Total documents NOT to exceed six A4 sides

Current Curriculum Vitae

Covering Letter (Supporting Statement) - This your the opportunity to explain how your skills, experience and qualifications are relevant for the role.

Good luck!

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