Childcare Lawyer (Solicitor) – 3 to 6 Month Contract

Summary

Responsibilities

• Deliver expert legal counsel on childcare and family law issues.
  


• Oversee and manage care proceedings for the Council.
  


• Represent the Council in court and other legal settings.
  


• Offer guidance on complex legal matters to Children's Services teams.
  


• Address legal inquiries from the Children and Young People Services Directorate.
  


• Draft legal documents, applications, statements, and court bundles.
  


• Conduct legal research and provide insights on complex and emerging topics.
  


• Facilitate decision-making in Children's Services with clear legal guidance.
  


• Collaborate with social workers, managers, counsel, and external partners.
  


• Ensure adherence to relevant legislation, Law Society Professional Standards, and Lexcel Accreditation
  

• Contribute to the efficient functioning of the Legal Services team.
  

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor with a current Practising Certificate.
  


• Extensive experience in Children's Law.
  


• Proficiency in handling and managing Care Proceedings, Public Law Children Matters, and Family Law Cases.
  


• Strong advocacy and case management capabilities.
  


• Exceptional legal research and analytical skills.
  


• Ability to offer clear, practical legal advice on complex issues.
  


• Experience with Children's Services and safeguarding matters.
  


• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
  


• Competence in managing a demanding caseload efficiently.
  

Desirable

• Previous experience in Local Authority childcare legal roles.
  


• Advocacy experience.
  


• Experience in a Lexcel-accredited legal service.
  


• Familiarity with local government legal frameworks.
  


• Experience advising senior managers and elected officials.
  

Working Arrangements

• Mandatory attendance at County Hall, Northallerton on Mondays.
  


• Remaining four days can be worked remotely.
  


• Preference for candidates residing in North Yorkshire or nearby, as the caseload often involves the Harrogate area.
  


• Fully remote work may be considered for exceptional candidates.
  

What's on Offer?

• £69.58 per hour (Umbrella)
  


• 3 to 6 Month Contract
  


• Hybrid Working – 1 Day On Site / 4 Days Remote
  


• Location: Northallerton, North Yorkshire
  


• Bi-weekly Pay
  


• Opportunity to join a respected Local Authority legal team.
  


• Engage with a high-profile childcare caseload supporting Children's Services.
  


• Flexible working arrangements.
  


• Potential for contract extension.