Adult Social Care Solicitor in Solihull

3 - 6 Months Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To provide specialist legal advice and representation to the Council in relation to Adult Social Care matters, managing a varied caseload and undertaking litigation and advocacy where required. The post holder will provide high-quality, pragmatic and timely legal advice to officers, Members and relevant partners, with particular responsibility for matters arising under the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005 and related Adult Social Care legislation, guidance and case law. The role will include Court of Protection work, legal drafting, litigation, advocacy and advising on complex legal and procedural issues. The successful candidate will be expected to work independently while contributing effectively to the wider Social Care and Education Legal Team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide specialist legal advice and support to the Adult Social Care Directorate.
• Manage a varied and demanding caseload of Adult Social Care matters.
• Advise officers, Members, partners and clients on legal, procedural and policy matters.
• Provide advice on the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005 and associated legislation, guidance and case law.
• Conduct and manage Court of Protection proceedings.
• Undertake litigation and advocacy on behalf of the Council as required.
• Draft legal documents, applications, statements, advice, correspondence and other legal documentation.
• Attend remote and, where required, in-person court hearings.
• Undertake legal research and advise on emerging legal developments.
• Advise clients on the legal consequences of proposed courses of action and support lawful, proportionate decision-making.
• Assist with the development and review of legal policies and procedures.
• Provide legal briefings and training to officers, colleagues and partner organisations where appropriate.
• Attend Council committees and meetings and provide associated legal advice when required.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date and compliant case files and records.
• Work in accordance with relevant professional standards, Council policies and Lexcel requirements.
• Work effectively as part of the wider legal team while being able to manage matters independently.
• Undertake other appropriate duties as required.

Requirements

Essential

• Qualified and authorised to practise in England or Wales as a: Solicitor with a current practising certificate; Barrister authorised to practise; or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) with appropriate litigation practising rights. Unqualified candidates will not be considered.
• Recent and demonstrable experience in Adult Social Care law.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of the Care Act 2014.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
• Practical experience of Court of Protection proceedings.
• Experience of managing a varied legal caseload independently.
• Experience of litigation and legal drafting.
• Willingness and ability to undertake advocacy as and when required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong legal research, analytical and drafting skills.
• Ability to prioritise competing deadlines and work effectively under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Good IT skills and experience using case management systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a predominantly remote/hybrid environment.

Desirable

• Previous experience working within a local authority legal department.
• Experience in public law childcare and/or education law.
• Experience using Iken or another legal case management system.
• Understanding of Lexcel / Law Society Practice Management Standards.
• Previous experience undertaking advocacy in Adult Social Care or Court of Protection matters.
• Experience advising senior officers and Members.

Additional Information

• Hours per Week: 22–29 hours per week, ideally 3 or 4 days per week.
• Location: Solihull - Hybrid / predominantly remote working. The majority of hearings are remote. Initial attendance at the Council office will be required to collect and test IT equipment and complete induction. Occasional attendance at the office, court or other Council locations may be required.
• Bi-Weekly Payments: Payment will be made on a bi-weekly basis.