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- Tasks: Provide legal advice and advocacy to protect vulnerable children and families.
- Company: Halton Borough Council, a progressive authority committed to community welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through impactful legal work.
- Qualifications: Legal qualification and experience in children's social care law preferred.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to achieving positive outcomes for children.
Location: Halton, Cheshire
Pay: Up to £28.96 per hour
Contract: Initial 6-month contract with potential to become permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week
Make a Difference in Children's Lives Through Legal Excellence
Halton Borough Council is a progressive and ambitious authority with a strong commitment to its communities. Located in Cheshire with excellent transport links, we offer a supportive working environment where legal professionals can thrive and directly contribute to positive outcomes for vulnerable children and families. We are now seeking a dedicated and experienced Lawyer - Children's Services to join our Legal Services Directorate. This is a vital role where your legal expertise will help safeguard and protect children across the borough.
About the Role
As a key member of the Legal Services team, you will provide high-quality legal and procedural advice across the full range of children's social care matters. From pre-proceedings and public law care applications to complex safeguarding issues and advocacy in family courts, this role is both challenging and rewarding.
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake advocacy and litigation in family proceedings to represent the Council's interests
- Advise on all aspects of children's social care law, including pre-proceedings, care applications, adoption, and Special Guardianship Orders
- Support and advise social workers and senior officers on legal and procedural matters
- Draft complex legal documents and prepare cases for court
- Deliver legal advice to Council Boards, Panels, Committees, and Officers to support effective decision-making
- Keep up to date with developments in child law and assess implications for Council services
- Deliver training and guidance to internal stakeholders to enhance legal understanding and practice
- Collaborate closely with Children's Services, external partners, and courts to achieve the best outcomes for children
- Maintain compliance with Legal Services' Practice Standards and contribute to service improvement initiatives
About You
You will hold a recognised legal qualification as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive, and ideally have:
- Experience in children's social care law, preferably within a local authority or public sector setting
- Strong knowledge of the Children Act 1989, associated legislation, case law, and public law proceedings
- Excellent advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills
- The ability to work under pressure, manage deadlines, and deliver pragmatic legal solutions
- A proactive, team-oriented approach with a focus on client service
- Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent (e.g. G Suite, Mosaic)
- A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for travel within and outside the borough (reasonable adjustments available)
Why Halton?
Halton is known for its collaborative and supportive culture. Within our Legal Services Directorate, you'll join a knowledgeable and experienced team committed to achieving the best outcomes for children. You'll have the opportunity to grow professionally, influence decision-making, and be part of a service that truly makes a difference.
Connect2Halton is a trading style of Halton & Kent Commercial Services LLP- A joint venture between Halton Borough Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Halton is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Locations
Lawyer - Adults Services in Cheshire, Widnes employer: Connect2Halton
Contact Detail:
Connect2Halton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer - Adults Services in Cheshire, Widnes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work with children's services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Children Act 1989 and recent case law. We want you to shine when discussing how your expertise can make a difference in children's lives!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your advocacy skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex legal situations in children's social care. This will demonstrate your capability and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Lawyer - Adults Services in Cheshire, Widnes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in children's social care law. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Showcase Your Advocacy Skills: Since this role involves a lot of advocacy and litigation, it’s crucial to demonstrate your experience in these areas. Share specific examples where you’ve successfully represented interests in family proceedings or similar contexts.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A touch of authenticity can make your application stand out, so feel free to express your passion for making a difference in children’s lives.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to complete your application smoothly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Connect2Halton
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Children Act 1989 and any relevant case law before your interview. Being able to discuss specific legislation and how it applies to the role will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare examples of your advocacy experience, especially in family proceedings. Think about specific cases where you made a significant impact. This will demonstrate your ability to represent the Council's interests effectively and highlight your communication skills.
✨Understand the Role's Impact
Be ready to discuss how your work as a Lawyer in Children's Services can directly affect vulnerable children and families. Showing that you understand the importance of this role and are passionate about making a difference will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or challenges faced by the Legal Services Directorate. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
