Full time | Civic Recruitment Limited | United Kingdom
Posted On 24/06/2026
Job Information
Legal / Security / Law
City Northallerton
Province North Yorkshire
Postal Code DL6
Job Description
2 Month Contract with A local Authority
Job Purpose
The Childcare Lawyer Solicitor provides specialist legal advice, representation, and support on children's law matters, with a particular focus on care proceedings and family law. The role supports the Children and Young People Services Directorate by delivering high-quality legal services, managing complex casework, and ensuring compliance with professional, regulatory, and organisational standards. The post holder will play a key role in safeguarding children and supporting effective decision-making through clear and practical legal guidance.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert legal advice and representation in care proceedings and other children's and family law matters.
- Manage a caseload of childcare and family law matters, ensuring cases are progressed effectively and within required timescales.
- Advise the Children and Young People Services Directorate on legal issues relating to children's social care and safeguarding.
- Conduct legal research and analysis to address complex legal issues and support operational decision-making.
- Draft, review, and prepare legal documents, applications, pleadings, and court documentation.
- Represent the authority in court proceedings, hearings, meetings, and negotiations as required.
- Provide clear, practical, and legally sound advice to clients, managers, and stakeholders.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across legal services and operational teams to achieve positive outcomes.
- Ensure all work is undertaken in compliance with relevant legislation, regulatory requirements, Law Society Professional Standards, and Lexcel accreditation standards.
- Maintain accurate records and case management information in accordance with professional and organisational requirements.
- Contribute to service development, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the legal team.
Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor holding a current practising certificate.
- Significant experience in children's law, including care proceedings and family law matters.
- Strong knowledge of relevant childcare, safeguarding, and family law legislation.
- Experience providing legal advice and representation in court proceedings.
- Excellent legal research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to provide clear and practical legal advice on complex matters.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage a varied caseload and meet competing deadlines.
- Commitment to professional standards, ethics, and client service.
- Experience working within local government or public sector legal services.
- Knowledge of Lexcel accreditation requirements and legal quality standards.
- Advocacy experience within childcare proceedings.
Additional Information
- Location: Hybrid – County Hall, Northallerton, North Yorkshire (Mondays onsite; remaining days remote)
