HAB Law is an award-winning and rapidly growing law firm specialising in Court of Protection, Health & Welfare matters.
Due to continued expansion and increasing demand, we are seeking a Childcare Supervising Solicitor. This is an excellent opportunity to undertake meaningful and complex legal work while developing your career within a supportive, forward-thinking firm.
We have a strong requirement for Supervising Solicitors, particularly those with experience supervising both qualified and non-qualified staff, to support the continued development and expansion of the team.
Job Purpose
To lead, supervise, and develop a team within the Childcare Department whilst managing a caseload of Public law childcare matters. The postholder will ensure the delivery of high-quality, client-focused legal services, maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, and contribute to the department’s continued success and growth. The role includes supervising Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Assistants, with a particular focus on supporting Solicitors who are Children Panel Accredited.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise and manage a team of Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Assistants.
- Manage your own caseload of public law matters.
- Monitor and support the professional knowledge, competence, and development of the team; identify and address training needs.
- Undertake advocacy and representation of clients in court where appropriate.
- Fully instruct counsel, agents, and experts when required.
- Ensure compliance with all court orders, ensuring they are read, understood, and actioned promptly.
- Provide clear, practical, and comprehensive legal advice to clients, progressing their cases to conclusion.
- Ensure compliance with legal aid requirements and case management processes.
- Maintain accurate time recording, billing, and case management in line with firm policies.
- Participate in departmental planning, supervision sessions, and audits.
- Contribute to business development activities and the wider growth of the department and firm.
Person Specification
Qualifications & Experience
- Qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with 1+ years of PQE in Childcare
- Experience handling Parent care cases
- Experience in children Guardian cases preferred but not a requirement
- Experience in private law children matters preferred
- Children panel membership preferred but not a requirement
- Confident managing your own caseload with minimal supervision
- Strong drafting, advocacy, and client communication skills
- Familiarity with CCMS and legal aid processes (preferred)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
- Previous management and/or team leadership experience.
- Experience working within the legal aid framework, including use of the CCMS portal.
- Self-motivated, clear thinking and able to carry out casework accurately
- Ambitious solicitor committed to your own growth and development
Skills & Competencies
- Parent care matters
- Special guardianship matters
- Guardian matters
- Regular work with the Senior Solicitors
- Develop and support junior team members
- Strong advocacy and negotiation skills.
- Excellent drafting and analytical ability. Sound knowledge of the Children Act 1989, Adoption and Children Act 2002, and relevant case law.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems.
- Ability to lead and motivate a team, providing constructive feedback and guidance.
- Strong client care skills, with the ability to deal sensitively with vulnerable clients
Personal Attributes
- Empathetic, approachable, and professional.
- Proactive, solution-focused, and resilient under pressure.
- Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Self-motivated and ambitious, with a commitment to personal growth and continuous professional development.
- Collaborative approach with a genuine interest in mentoring and developing junior staff.
Full -time I permanent I This role is based in Watford
If you have the skills and experience required, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Pay: £50,000.00-£75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
- Work from home
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Watford, Hertfordshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):
- How many years experience do you have in a Childcare Supervising Solicitor role ?
- Do you have any qualifications/certificates relevant to this role ?
- Do you drive ?
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Watford
