At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex legal cases in Adult Social Care and Education, making a real impact.
- Company: Forward-thinking local authority with a supportive and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and a strong commitment to wellbeing.
- Other info: Clear progression pathways and opportunities for meaningful, varied work.
- Why this job: Join a team that shapes public service and influences community decisions.
- Qualifications: Experienced solicitor with expertise in Adult Social Care and Education law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job details
- Terms & Conditions: 37 Hours, Permanent, Full time
- Interview Date: w/c 6th July 2026
Samantha Vickery, our Head of Service, would love to speak with you personally about the team, the culture, and what this role could offer you. She has set aside dedicated lunchtime 1:1 sessions, and you’re very welcome to book time to speak with Sam.
Make a real difference where your expertise truly matters – Join our Legal Team! We are 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.
We’re looking for a talented Principal Solicitor/Lawyer 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.
Adult Social Care & Education Team
The team advises and represents the Adult Social Care department on all aspects of Adult Social Care law and practice including advice and representation in Court of Protection proceedings, and providing advice on e.g. Care Act duties, Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty, Ordinary Residence queries/disputes, Mental Health Act queries and Safeguarding. The team also advises and represents the Education department on all aspects of education law and practice e.g. school admissions and exclusions, admissions appeals, policies, parental disputes relating to Education Health Care Plans, and representation in appeals to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Tribunal.
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.
Principal Solicitor - Adult Social Care employer: Blackburn with Darwen Council
Join our forward-thinking local authority legal team, where your expertise in Adult Social Care law will make a real difference to the community. We offer a supportive and collaborative work culture, with clear pathways for professional growth and flexible working arrangements that prioritise your wellbeing. With meaningful and varied work at the heart of public service, this is an excellent opportunity to influence decisions that shape the lives of thousands while enjoying a fulfilling career.
Contact Details:
Blackburn with Darwen Council Recruitment Team
