Job Description
Public Family Solicitor Children
Salary:
Location: Luton
Are you a passionate Family Solicitor ready to make a real difference in childrens lives Our client a leading regional law firm is seeking an experienced Public Law Children Solicitor to join their Legal 500 Tier 1 recognised Public Family Team in Luton. This is your opportunity to work on meaningful cases whilst developing your career in a supportive collaborative environment.
About the Opportunity
Join a thriving Public Family Team that combines high-quality legal work with genuine work-life balance. Youll handle complex public law children cases work with Local Authorities and have the autonomy to manage your own caseload whilst being supported by experienced Partners and a friendly inclusive team.
This role offers genuine career progression with support towards achieving Law Society Children Panel accreditation and opportunities to develop your advocacy skills in a fast-paced rewarding practice area.
The Role What Youll Be Doing
Case Management & Client Care:
- Managing your own caseload of public law children matters from inception to conclusion
- Representing parents family members and children in care proceedings
- Preparing and managing Legal Aid funding applications to the Legal Aid Agency
- Conducting advocacy at court hearings (where appropriate)
- Building and maintaining relationships with Local Authority contacts
Professional Development:
- Working towards or maintaining Law Society Children Panel membership
- Supporting and mentoring junior team members
- Participating in CPD and professional development opportunities
- Contributing to business development and networking initiatives
Day-to-Day Responsibilities:
- Handling new enquiries and client consultations
- Providing expert legal advice in writing by phone and in meetings
- Maintaining accurate case records and compliance with Lexcel standards
- Managing client expectations and risk effectively
- Attending court and client meetings across the region
About You Essential Requirements
Experience & Qualifications:
- 4 years PQEin Family Law ideally within the Care sector
- Qualified Solicitor with current practising certificate
- Experience in public law children proceedings (care orders placement orders etc.)
- Either on theLaw Society Children Panelor ready to apply
- Proven track record of managing Legal Aid cases and funding applications
- Valid UK driving licence(required for court and client visits)
Skills & Attributes:
- Strong written and oral communication skills with clients courts and Local Authorities
- Excellent file and time management abilities
- IT literate (case management systems MS Word Outlook Excel)
- Knowledge of Lexcel quality standards and compliance requirements
- Self-motivated with ability to work to targets and meet tight deadlines
- Collaborative team player who can also work autonomously
- Personal pride in delivering high-quality legal work
Whats On Offer Comprehensive Benefits Package
Financial & Leave:
- Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
- 25 days annual leaveplus bank holidays
- Auto-enrolment salary sacrifice pension scheme
- Staff introduction bonus scheme
- Death in service insurance
Professional Development:
- Regular feedback and development opportunities
- Full support for CPD and professional qualifications
- Support towards Law Society Children Panel accreditation
- Regular contact with Partners for mentoring and guidance
Health & Wellbeing:
- Enhanced sick pay scheme
- Free annual eye tests
- Paid flu vaccinations
- Health cash plan
- Cycle to work scheme
Work Environment:
- Excellent modern office facilities in central Luton
- Collaborative inclusive culture with diverse team of 120 staff
- Discounted legal advice across all departments
- Opportunities to participate in company-sponsored charitable events
- Genuine work-life balance commitment
Working Arrangements
Location: Luton office (with travel to courts and client meetings as required)
Hours: Full-time 09:0017:30 Monday to Friday
Reporting to: Partner Public Family Department
Why Join This Team
Our client is a well-established regional law firm with a reputation for excellence in Family Law. Their Public Family Team has achieved Legal 500recognition demonstrating their commitment to quality and client care. Youll be joining a firm that values diversity invests in employee development and genuinely supports work-life balance.
This is more than just a job its an opportunity to build a rewarding career in a practice area that makes a real difference to vulnerable children and families.
Ready to Apply
If youre a dedicated Family Solicitor looking for your next challenge in a supportive high-performing team wed love to hear from you.
To apply or discuss this opportunity in confidence please contact:
Mara WatsonRecruitment Consultant LegalHawthorne-Finch Talent SolutionsEmail: All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.