Job Purpose
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Location: Fully Remote
- Hours per Week: 37 hours
- Pay: Bi-Weekly Payments
