Job Purpose
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Location: Hybrid – Mondays at County Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire; four days working from home.
- Hours per Week: 37 hours
- Pay: Bi-Weekly Payments
