Childcare Solicitor

1 Month Contract With A Local Authority

To provide expert legal advice and representation in childcare and family law matters, supporting the Children and Young People Services Directorate. The postholder will manage a varied caseload of care proceedings and associated legal matters, ensuring high-quality legal services are delivered in accordance with statutory requirements, professional standards, and the Council's objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of childcare law matters, including care proceedings and other family law cases.
  


• Provide expert legal advice to the Children and Young People Services Directorate on complex childcare and safeguarding issues.
  


• Represent the Council in court proceedings, hearings, and case conferences as required.
  


• Prepare legal documents, applications, witness statements, and court bundles to support proceedings.
  


• Conduct legal research and provide advice on complex or novel legal issues affecting operational services.
  


• Work closely with social workers, managers, barristers, and external agencies to achieve effective legal outcomes.
  


• Ensure legal work complies with relevant legislation, Law Society Professional Standards, and Lexcel accreditation requirements.
  


• Provide timely, practical, and solution-focused legal advice to internal clients.
  


• Maintain accurate case records and manage deadlines in accordance with court timetables and statutory requirements.
  


• Contribute to the continuous improvement of legal services and support knowledge sharing within the legal team.
  

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor holding a current practising certificate (essential).
  


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


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


• Experience representing clients in court and managing complex legal cases.
  


• Excellent legal research, drafting, and analytical skills.
  


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


• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  


• Ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively under pressure.
  


• Commitment to maintaining professional standards and compliance with Law Society and Lexcel requirements.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Hybrid – Mondays at County Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire; four days working from home.
  


• Hours per Week: 37 hours
  


• Pay: Bi-Weekly Payments