Childcare Lawyer

2 Month Contract with A local Authority

The Childcare Lawyer Solicitor provides specialist legal advice, representation, and support on children's law matters, with a particular focus on care proceedings and family law. The role supports the Children and Young People Services Directorate by delivering high-quality legal services, managing complex casework, and ensuring compliance with professional, regulatory, and organisational standards. The post holder will play a key role in safeguarding children and supporting effective decision-making through clear and practical legal guidance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice and representation in care proceedings and other children's and family law matters.
  


• Manage a caseload of childcare and family law matters, ensuring cases are progressed effectively and within required timescales.
  


• Advise the Children and Young People Services Directorate on legal issues relating to children's social care and safeguarding.
  


• Conduct legal research and analysis to address complex legal issues and support operational decision-making.
  


• Draft, review, and prepare legal documents, applications, pleadings, and court documentation.
  


• Represent the authority in court proceedings, hearings, meetings, and negotiations as required.
  


• Provide clear, practical, and legally sound advice to clients, managers, and stakeholders.
  


• Work collaboratively with colleagues across legal services and operational teams to achieve positive outcomes.
  


• Ensure all work is undertaken in compliance with relevant legislation, regulatory requirements, Law Society Professional Standards, and Lexcel accreditation standards.
  


• Maintain accurate records and case management information in accordance with professional and organisational requirements.
  


• Contribute to service development, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the legal team.
  

Requirements

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor holding a current practising certificate.
  


• Significant experience in children's law, including care proceedings and family law matters.
  


• Strong knowledge of relevant childcare, safeguarding, and family law legislation.
  


• Experience providing legal advice and representation in court proceedings.
  


• Excellent legal research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  


• Ability to provide clear and practical legal advice on complex matters.
  


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  


• Ability to manage a varied caseload and meet competing deadlines.
  


• Commitment to professional standards, ethics, and client service.
  

Desirable

• Experience working within local government or public sector legal services.
  


• Knowledge of Lexcel accreditation requirements and legal quality standards.
  


• Advocacy experience within childcare proceedings.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Hybrid – County Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire (Mondays onsite; remaining days remote)
  


• Hours per Week: 37 
  


• Pay Frequency: Bi-weekly payments