SEN/Education Lawyer

3 month Contract With A local Authority

To provide expert legal advice and representation on Special Educational Needs (SEN) and education law matters, supporting the Council in meeting its statutory responsibilities. The postholder will manage a varied caseload, provide clear and practical legal advice to client departments, and represent the Council in tribunals, court proceedings, and other legal forums where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of SEN and education law matters, ensuring cases are progressed efficiently and within statutory timescales.
  


• Provide specialist legal advice to Council officers on SEN legislation, education law, and related statutory duties.
  


• Draft, review, and advise on legal documents, agreements, notices, and correspondence.
  


• Represent the Council in the First-tier Tribunal (SEND), judicial reviews, court proceedings, and other hearings where required.
  


• Advise on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), school admissions, exclusions, transport, and other education-related legal matters.
  


• Conduct legal research and provide clear advice on complex or emerging legal issues.
  


• Work collaboratively with Education, SEND, Children's Services, and external legal professionals to achieve positive outcomes.
  


• Maintain accurate case records and ensure compliance with professional standards, legislation, and Council policies.
  


• Support service improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of legal best practice within the team.
  

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate (essential).
  


• Significant experience in SEN and education law within a local government or public sector environment.
  


• Strong knowledge of SEND legislation, education law, and relevant statutory guidance.
  


• Experience representing clients in the SEND Tribunal and other legal proceedings.
  


• Excellent legal drafting, research, and analytical skills.
  


• Ability to provide practical, solution-focused legal advice on complex matters.
  


• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  


• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet statutory deadlines.
  


• Experience working collaboratively with Children's Services, Education, and SEND teams.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Fully Remote
  


• Hours per Week: 37 hours
  


• Pay: Bi-Weekly Payments