At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on Adult Social Care matters and manage a varied caseload.
- Company: Join Luton Borough Council through Connect2Luton, a dynamic public sector recruitment service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities available for junior lawyers and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of social care law while supporting vulnerable adults in your community.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister with 5+ years' experience in relevant law.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Connect2Luton are excited to recruit an Adult Social Care Solicitor on behalf of Luton Borough Council.
Main purpose of position: Provide an efficient, effective, and economic legal service to the Council, its Executive, Committees and Sub-Committees, and to Departments, including senior officers and elected members as well as external clients, to protect the interests of the Council and/or external clients whilst providing options and advising on risks. To provide high quality and effective legal advice to the Council in relation to Adult Social Care matters.
The postholder will manage a varied caseload, including Court of Protection proceedings, safeguarding matters, mental capacity issues and related public law matters, ensuring that the Council fulfils its statutory obligations and manages legal risk effectively.
You will be responsible to:
- Give complex matters legal advice to client departments, Officers and elected members of the Council arising under the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, Mental Health Act 1983, Human Rights Act 1998 and Equality Act 2010, safeguarding adults and multi-agency safeguarding arrangements, deprivation of liberty safeguards and emerging Liberty Protection Safeguards requirements.
- Manage a varied caseload of Adult Social Care matters with minimal supervision.
- Conduct and supervise proceedings in the Court of Protection, including welfare applications, property and affairs matters, and deprivation of liberty cases.
- Advise on the Mental Capacity Act 2005, Care Act 2014, Mental Health Act 1983, Human Rights Act 1998, and related legislation.
- Draft and settle applications, witness statements, court documents, legal opinions, agreements, reports and correspondence.
- Represent the Council before Courts and Tribunals as an unsupervised advocate conducting cases in a way that complies with current practice, procedural requirements and court directions.
- Exercise judgement as to whether specialist legal advice and/or assistance is required and instruct Counsel in such cases as may be approved by the Head of Legal Services or the Principal Solicitor (Social Services).
- Supervise Junior lawyers, trainees, and legal assistants through mentoring, supervision, and knowledge sharing where required.
Skills and Experience:
- In depth experience of advocacy before Courts and/or Tribunals - including dealing with complex adults social care matters.
- Able to demonstrate ability to plan/prioritise own caseload within broad guidelines with minimum supervision.
- Decisive - ability to make decisions - render judgment within guidelines set by management.
- Oral and written communication skills - able to elicit relevant information in complex situations and translate it into effective documents.
- Knowledge and understanding of equalities issues and legislation.
- Comprehensive knowledge of Adults Community Care Law, including Mental Capacity, Mental Health Law and Data Protection Laws.
- Applicant must be a Solicitor, Barrister or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (FCILEx) and hold a current practising certificate in England and Wales.
- A minimum of 5+ years' PQE is essential.
- Current practising certificate.
About Us: Luton Borough Council have partnered with Kent County Council to create Connect2Luton, a recruitment managed service for all contingent temporary agency, contract, and interim roles at the Council. We are an equal opportunities employment agency and business that positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Adult Social Care Solicitor employer: Connect2Luton
Luton Borough Council, through Connect2Luton, offers a supportive and inclusive work environment for the Accounts Receivable Officer role, where employees are valued and encouraged to grow professionally. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to training opportunities and the chance to contribute to meaningful community services in Luton. The council's commitment to equal opportunities ensures a diverse workplace that fosters collaboration and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Adult Social Care Solicitor
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Connect2Luton, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Adult Social Care Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Connect2Luton, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Connect2Luton and the specific role of Adult Social Care Solicitor. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Connect2Luton’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Connect2Luton
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Connect2Luton.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Connect2Luton.
