Childcare Solicitor

A Local Authority legal team is looking to appoint an experienced Childcare Lawyer to support a busy and well-regarded department handling a broad range of public law childcare matters. This role offers flexible remote working and the opportunity to work within a collaborative and supportive team environment.

The Position

You will manage a caseload of childcare and safeguarding matters, providing legal advice to social care teams and representing the Authority in care proceedings and related hearings.

Responsibilities will include:

• Managing a caseload of public law childcare matters from initial instruction through to final hearing
• Advising social workers, children’s services and senior officers on safeguarding and child protection issues
• Conducting and progressing care proceedings under the Children Act
• Preparing legal documentation, applications, statements and court bundles
• Attending hearings remotely and/or in person where required
• Advising on pre-proceedings, emergency applications and adoption matters
• Providing clear and practical legal advice within a fast-paced environment
• Working closely with counsel, guardians and external agencies

About You

The successful candidate will be:

• A qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive
• Experienced in public law childcare work
• Confident handling advocacy or instructing counsel appropriately
• Familiar with relevant childcare legislation and court procedures
• Able to manage competing deadlines and sensitive matters effectively
• Skilled at building strong working relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders

Previous Local Authority experience is preferred, although candidates with strong relevant private practice experience are also encouraged to apply.

Why Apply?

• Flexible remote working arrangements
• Meaningful and rewarding public sector work
• Supportive and experienced legal team
• Varied and engaging caseload
• Competitive salary/rate dependent on experience