Solicitor - Children's Social Care

About the Service

Make a real difference where your expertise truly matters – Join our Legal Team! After celebrating internal promotions, wishing several long‑serving colleagues a well‑earned retirement and supporting colleagues to move to pastures new, we’re recruiting! We’re also expanding our Legal team in preparation for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in local government so we’re looking for ambitious talent ready to make an impact.

About the Role

We’re looking for talented Solicitors/Lawyers and Principal Solicitors/Lawyers to join our forward‑thinking local authority legal team. This is your opportunity to work at the heart of public service, using your skills to protect communities, support vital services, and influence decisions that shape the lives of thousands.

The Children's Social Care Team provides legal advice and assistance to the Children’s Social Care department on all aspects of complex public law proceedings in the Family Court, including pre-proceedings work (under the Public Law Outline), and cases involving deprivation of liberty. The team advises and supports the client department in respect of Local Authority involvement in private law proceedings in the Family Court, as well as general legal advice and assistance on a wide range of issues.

Responsibilities

Meaningful, varied work — From safeguarding and governance to contracts, property, and regulatory matters, every day brings new challenges that genuinely impact the public good. Professional respect and autonomy — You’ll be trusted to lead on complex cases, advise senior leaders, and shape policy with your legal insight. Supportive, collaborative culture — We work proactively and collaboratively in a friendly and supportive environment to achieve the best outcomes, and to support opportunities for training and development. Clear progression pathways — Whether you’re an experienced solicitor ready for your next step or a principal solicitor seeking strategic influence, we offer room to grow. Work–life balance — Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to wellbeing mean you can excel professionally without compromising your life outside work.

Qualifications

Solicitors/Lawyers with strong technical skills, sound judgement, and a commitment to public service. Principal Solicitors/Lawyers ready to lead, mentor, and drive high‑quality legal practice across the authority.

Pay range and compensation package

Terms & Conditions: 37 Hours, Permanent, Full time Salary: £45,091 to £49,282 per annum

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity.

If you’d like to learn more, you’re welcome to contact samantha.vickery@blackburn.gov.uk, who will be happy to arrange a convenient time for a telephone conversation.