Child Protection Lawyer - 3 Month Contract
Local Authority | 3 Month Contract
Location: Surrey
Rate: £50.00 per hour (Umbrella)
Contract: 3 Month Contract
Hours: Full Time
Working Pattern: Flexible / Remote Working Available
Pay: Bi-Weekly
Summary
We are seeking a skilled Child Protection Lawyer to join a Local Authority Legal Services team on a temporary basis. This role is ideal for a qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX with expertise in childcare and public law proceedings. You will be responsible for managing a diverse and complex caseload, offering expert legal counsel and representation to Children's Services, senior officials, elected members, and partner organizations. As part of a Lexcel-accredited legal team, you will address intricate child protection issues, perform advocacy when necessary, and contribute to the delivery of high-quality legal services that protect children and foster positive outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee a complex caseload of child protection and public law matters with minimal oversight.
- Deliver specialized legal advice to Children's Services, officers, members, and partner organizations.
- Handle care proceedings and related public law childcare matters.
- Provide guidance on safeguarding, child protection, and statutory duties.
- Draft legal documents such as court applications, statements, pleadings, and orders.
- Represent the Local Authority in court proceedings and perform advocacy as needed.
- Instruct and manage Counsel when appropriate.
- Offer legal advice at meetings, panels, and multi-agency forums.
- Assist the Monitoring Officer with governance and legal compliance issues.
- Contribute to the development and delivery of training for officers and stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate records using electronic case management systems.
- Mentor and support junior team members as needed.
- Collaborate with colleagues to deliver an efficient and effective legal service.
Essential
Requirements
Requirements:
- Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX eligible to practice in England and Wales.
- Current practicing certificate.
- Extensive experience in Child Protection and Public Law proceedings.
- Strong understanding of Children Act legislation and related childcare law.
- Proven ability to manage complex legal cases independently.
- Advocacy experience or a strong aptitude for advocacy.
- Proficient in drafting, negotiation, and legal research.
- Experience advising senior officers and key stakeholders.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Ability to work flexibly and meet court and statutory deadlines.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Desirable
- Previous experience in a Local Authority legal setting.
- Experience working within a Lexcel-accredited environment.
- Supervisory or mentoring experience.
- Experience advising committees, members, or senior leadership teams.
Additional
- Flexible and remote working options available.
- Attendance at court hearings and meetings required as necessary.
- Opportunity to work on complex and high-profile childcare cases.
- Lexcel-accredited legal service.
What's on Offer?
- £50.00 per hour (Umbrella)
- 3 Month Contract
- Full-Time Hours
- Flexible Working Arrangements
- Bi-Weekly Pay
- Diverse and complex child protection caseload.
- Supportive Local Authority legal team.
- Opportunity to engage in advocacy and develop specialized expertise.
- Potential for contract extension.
Ideal for candidates with experience as a Child Protection Lawyer, Childcare Lawyer, Care Proceedings Lawyer, Children's Solicitor, Public Law Solicitor, Family Solicitor, Local Government Lawyer, Senior Childcare Lawyer, or Children's Services Legal Advisor.
Child Protection Lawyer in Reigate employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
Civic Recruitment Limited is an exceptional employer that prioritises meaningful impact in the community, particularly for children and families. With a strong commitment to professional development and a collaborative work culture, employees are empowered to drive positive change while enjoying the benefits of flexible working arrangements and a supportive team environment in Ipswich. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead significant projects that align with national reforms, making a real difference in the lives of those served.
