Childcare Solicitor

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 Councils 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 childrens 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