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- Tasks: Support children's services with legal advice, manage your own caseload, and represent in court.
- Company: Join Manchester City Council, a vibrant local authority dedicated to community transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, a strong pension scheme, and various employee perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your legal skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor, barrister, or legal executive with a current practising certificate required.
- Other info: We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented communities.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Lawyer (Children & Families Legal Service)
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract type: Permanent, full time
Closing date: 11.59pm, 9 November 2025
Interview method: in person
Application: CV and detailed Expression of Interest setting out how your skills and experience meet the requirements on the attached role profile.
Responsibilities
- Have knowledge of the law relating to children and families and be able to develop advocacy skills to represent the Council in complex contested proceedings.
- Be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate, able and committed to working in a flexible manner including outside normal office hours, when the role necessitates the same.
- Be a key member of the group, confident and able to work independently and act upon your own initiative.
- Be able to evidence personal commitment to continuous self development and service improvement.
- Represent the local authority at court on a regular basis and manage your own caseload with minimal supervision.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate.
- DBS clearance: appointees will be required to apply for a Standard DBS check. Information provided will be handled confidentially in accordance with the DBS Code of Practice. A policy on Ex-Offenders is available upon request.
- This position may be subject to TUPE Transfer to Rochdale Borough Council.
What You Will Do
- Develop and apply knowledge of children and families law to advocacy and advisory work for the Council.
- Draft legal documentation and provide advice to clients; collaborate with a team and work independently with own caseload.
- Communicate effectively, both written and verbal, and advocate in court when required.
Culture & Benefits
- Generous holiday allowance: up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of service; option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
- Participation in the local government pension scheme with life cover.
- Enhanced parental and carers leave and a range of discounts and learning opportunities.
- Volunteering leave (up to 3 days, pro-rata).
Support & Inclusion
- Disability Confident Employer with adjustments, networks, and accessibility supports.
- Interview adjustments and accessible formats available.
- Right to work in the UK verification requirements and pre-employment checks.
For more information about the role or any adjustments, email jobs@manchester.gov.uk.
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Lawyer (Children & Families Legal Service) employer: Manchester City Council
Contact Detail:
Manchester City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer (Children & Families Legal Service)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legal frameworks and policies related to children's services in Manchester. Understanding local legislation and how it impacts your role will demonstrate your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in children's law or local government. Attend relevant legal seminars or workshops to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the role and its challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising advocacy scenarios that are common in children's law cases. Being able to articulate your approach to sensitive situations will showcase your skills and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Manchester City Council's recent initiatives and projects in children's services. Showing that you are informed about their current work will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Lawyer (Children & Families Legal Service)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your qualifications as a solicitor, barrister, or Chartered Lawyer. Emphasise relevant experience in children and family law, and include any advocacy work that showcases your skills.
Craft a Strong Expression of Interest: In your Expression of Interest, clearly outline how your skills and experiences align with the role's requirements. Use specific examples to demonstrate your legal expertise and commitment to children's services.
Gather References: Prepare at least two references, ideally from previous employers or colleagues who can vouch for your legal abilities and experience in child welfare cases. Ensure they are aware they may be contacted.
Review and Proofread: Before submitting your application, review all documents for clarity and accuracy. Check for grammatical errors and ensure that your application presents a professional image.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester City Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Lawyer in the Children & Families Legal Service. Familiarise yourself with the statutory functions and legal frameworks relevant to children's services, as this will help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Since advocacy is a substantial part of the role, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully represented clients or cases in court. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ethical judgement. Think about how you would handle specific situations involving children and families, and be ready to discuss your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Manchester City Council values diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you have contributed to creating an inclusive environment in your previous roles and how you plan to continue doing so in this position.
