Role requirements Basic DBS check What are we looking for? We have an exciting opportunity for an Income Legal Officer to join our expanding Income team on a permanent basis. The role involves providing a legal enforcement service to the Income Services Department, including the preparation, issuing, and enforcement of Rent Possession and Money Claim proceedings related to rent arrears and debt owed to PA Housing. Additionally, it includes preparing pre-trial legal documentation, working with external contractors attending court hearings on behalf of PA Housing, and presenting cases in the County Court. This role can offer hybrid working, requiring office presence for about 2-3 days a week, with potential increases during the probation period. Key tasks and responsibilities include: Prepare Court proceedings for the Income Team using `Possession Claims Online`, `Money Claim Online`, and manual processes as needed. Create pre-trial legal paperwork, including detailed witness statements and cohesive pre-Court case files in line with current legislation and policy, current Civil Procedure Rules, and the pre-action protocol. Negotiate payment arrangements to help prevent evictions, support residents through the legal process, and provide general tenancy sustainment support, referring to in-house teams and sign-posting to external support providers as necessary. Act as the first-point-of-contact liaison with external contractors representing PA Housing in Court, building networks and monitoring contractor performance. Represent PA Housing in Court, litigation, tribunal, or other proceedings regarding rent arrears and debt, especially in remote settings. Maintain accurate records to generate quality evidence and prepare reports, statistics, and case histories, identifying appropriate interventions and solutions. Support the Income Manager in staying updated with current legislation and best practices to ensure high standards and continuous improvement of services and policies. Provide legal advice to Income Officers and colleagues as needed. Participate proactively in legal forums to ensure current interpretation of housing law and statutory requirements. To be successful in this role, we seek: Excellent knowledge of statutory and contractual issues related to income and debt recovery, including court/legal processes and the pre-action protocol. Understanding of the impact of Welfare Reform and the difference between priority and secondary debts. Practical experience with Landlord and Tenant legislation and best practices. Experience in a target-driven operational environment and customer service, especially in housing associations or public service organizations. What’s in it for you? 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with options to buy or sell additional leave. Flexible schedules and hybrid working, subject to business needs. Performance-related pay with bonuses for achieving targets and compliance tasks. Access to health and wellbeing benefits, travel perks, and an interest-free loan of up to £5,000 after probation. Our EDI Policy: We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in our recruitment process, welcoming applications from all suitably qualified candidates, including those from BME groups and disabled candidates. About Us: PA Housing is an award-winning provider of affordable, quality homes, committed to putting residents at the center of our operations. With over 24,000 homes and more than 600 staff, we aim for high service standards. To apply, please click the apply button or email recruitmentpahousing.co.uk.