About the role
We are looking for an experienced Childcare Solicitor to join our Social Care and Education legal team.
This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified legal professional with strong experience in public law childcare proceedings to undertake a varied and demanding caseload, providing high-quality legal advice and representation in complex and sensitive matters involving children, young people and families.
You will provide legal support to Children’s Services and may also contribute to wider Social Care and Education work, including matters relating to Adult Care and Support.
Key responsibilities
As a Childcare Solicitor, you will:
-
Manage a full, varied and demanding caseload of public law childcare matters.
-
Provide clear, pragmatic and timely legal advice to clients and colleagues.
-
Advise on legal, procedural and policy issues and draft a range of legal documents.
-
Conduct litigation and advocacy in Family Court proceedings, tribunals, panels and enquiries.
-
Advise on the legal and other consequences of proposed courses of action, ensuring that clients can make informed decisions and act lawfully.
-
Keep clients, colleagues and partner organisations informed of developments in legislation, case law and emerging legal issues.
-
Deliver briefings and training where required.
-
Attend committees and undertake associated legal and advisory work where necessary.
-
Maintain accurate records and comply with relevant professional, departmental and practice management standards.
-
Work flexibly to meet the needs of the role, including attending court and other meetings outside standard office hours where required.
About you
You will be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister entitled to practise in England or Wales, or a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives with relevant practising rights.
You will have:
-
Detailed technical knowledge and recent experience of public law childcare proceedings.
-
A strong understanding of the Children Act 1989, Children and Families Act 2014, Adoption and Children Act 2002, together with relevant case law and guidance.
-
Knowledge and practical experience of Family Court protocols and procedures.
-
Recent advocacy experience and a willingness to develop your contested advocacy skills.
-
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information clearly.
-
Strong legal research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
-
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
-
The ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure.
-
Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
-
The ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
-
A client-focused approach and the ability to understand and meet client expectations.
-
Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word and Outlook or equivalent, and experience of using case management systems.
Experience of working within a local authority legal department, Family Court advocacy, use of Iken or another case management system, and an understanding of Lexcel practice management standards would be advantageous.
What we are looking for
We are seeking someone who is committed to delivering a high-quality legal service and who demonstrates:
-
Excellence – a positive, can-do approach and a commitment to high standards.
-
Simplicity – the ability to communicate clearly and avoid unnecessary complexity.
-
Trust and Respect – professionalism, confidentiality, inclusion and respect for colleagues and clients.
-
Working Together – a collaborative approach and willingness to share knowledge and support others.
-
Responsibility – ownership of your work, decisions, development and professional performance.
You will also need to be able to attend court for in-person hearings and travel as required by the role.
Safeguarding and inclusion
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk is a key responsibility, and all staff are expected to share this commitment.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
If you are an experienced childcare lawyer looking for a challenging and rewarding role where your expertise can make a real difference, we would love to hear from you.