3 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality legal advice and representation in childcare and public law matters, ensuring the effective and timely progression of cases in accordance with relevant legislation, regulations, and professional standards. The post holder will manage a caseload of complex childcare matters, provide clear legal advice to clients and partner agencies, and represent the organisation at court hearings.

The role is predominantly remote, with attendance at court required twice per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of childcare and public law matters from initial instruction through to conclusion.
• Provide clear, accurate, and timely legal advice on childcare legislation, procedures, evidence, and case strategy.
• Prepare cases for court, including reviewing evidence, drafting applications, statements, orders, and other legal documentation.
• Represent the organisation at court hearings and case management hearings, attending court approximately twice per week.
• Conduct advocacy and negotiate effectively with other legal representatives, local authority professionals, parents, guardians, and other relevant parties.
• Advise social care colleagues on legal issues arising from child protection and care proceedings.
• Ensure cases are progressed efficiently and within relevant statutory and procedural timescales.
• Instruct and liaise with counsel, experts, and other external professionals where appropriate.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive case records and ensure all legal documentation is completed to the required standard.
• Provide practical advice on evidence, risk, case management, and appropriate legal remedies.
• Work collaboratively with social workers, managers, safeguarding professionals, and other partner agencies.
• Keep up to date with developments in childcare law, case law, legislation, guidance, and procedural requirements.
• Manage competing priorities effectively while maintaining high standards of client service and professional conduct.
• Ensure compliance with relevant organisational policies, legal procedures, confidentiality, data protection, and professional requirements.
• Contribute to service development, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the legal service.
• Undertake other duties appropriate to the level and responsibilities of the role.