Solicitor - Childcare

Hays is recruiting on behalf of a Council for an experienced Solicitor - Childcare to join their busy and supportive Safeguarding and Education Legal Team on an interim basis.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced legal professional to play a key role in supporting children's safeguarding services, providing specialist advice, and representing the Council in childcare proceedings.
The Role
The successful candidate will undertake a varied caseload covering all aspects of childcare law and safeguarding matters. You will provide expert legal advice and support to Social Care teams, Sandwell Children's Trust, officers, and elected Members, ensuring the Council meets its statutory responsibilities in relation to children at risk.
Key responsibilities include:

Managing all aspects of legal work relating to childcare proceedings.
Advising on social care matters including early help, discharges, adoptions, child assessments, and safeguarding issues.
Representing the Council in childcare hearings, attending court up to three days per week.
Providing legal advice and support to Council officers, Members, and relevant panels, committees, and meetings.
Delivering training to Social Workers on child protection legislation and procedures.
Providing specialist legal advice in relation to children at risk or potential risk of harm.
Instructing Counsel and Advocates where appropriate to represent the Council's interests.
Managing competing priorities and working effectively within a fast-paced environment.
About YouTo be considered for this role, you will be:

A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive (FILEX).
Educated to degree level or equivalent.
Have a minimum of five years' post-qualification experience.
Experienced in childcare law and safeguarding matters within a local authority setting.
Confident attending and conducting court hearings.
Able to provide clear, practical legal advice to a wide range of stakeholders.
Organised and capable of managing a demanding caseload under pressure.
Adaptable, reliable, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
Detail-oriented with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
Flexible and willing to attend court hearings and meetings in person when required.
If you have substantial childcare and safeguarding experience and are looking for your next interim opportunity within local government, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today or contact Gemma Meah at Hays for a confidential discussion.

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