Childcare Paralegal in Barnsley

CRA Consulting is pleased to be working with a well-established and highly regarded law firm in Barnsley to recruit an experienced Senior Childcare Paralegal for its growing Family and Childcare department. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled childcare professional to join a respected team handling a broad range of public and private law matters. The successful candidate will have a strong background in Childcare Law, experience managing their own caseload, and the ability to support solicitors on more complex proceedings. The role offers exposure to high-quality work, genuine career progression opportunities, and a supportive environment where professional development is actively encouraged.

The Role

As a Senior Childcare Paralegal, you will play a key role in supporting the department’s continued growth, managing a varied caseload and assisting on complex childcare matters. You will work closely with clients, local authorities, counsel, and courts, ensuring cases progress efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of client care.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of childcare and family matters under appropriate supervision, including public and private law proceedings.
• Support solicitors on complex care proceedings, child protection matters, adoption cases, and special guardianship applications.
• Draft a range of legal documents, witness statements, court applications, and correspondence.
• Prepare hearing bundles and assist with advocacy and hearing preparation.
• Liaise with clients, local authorities, barristers, courts, CAFCASS, and other relevant agencies.
• Conduct client meetings, take instructions, and provide regular updates throughout proceedings.
• Ensure all matters are progressed proactively and in line with court timetables and procedural requirements.
• Maintain accurate file management, billing records, and compliance with Legal Aid Agency and regulatory standards.
• Assist with mentoring and supporting junior members of the team where appropriate.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Previous experience working as a Childcare or Family Paralegal within a busy legal practice.
• A strong understanding of public law childcare proceedings and Legal Aid processes.
• Experience handling or assisting with care proceedings, child protection matters, adoption applications, and private children disputes.
• Excellent drafting, organisational, and case management skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, with a compassionate and professional approach to client care.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively within a fast-paced environment.
• High levels of attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Confidence using case management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience working extensively on publicly funded childcare matters.
• Knowledge of local authority processes and care proceedings.
• Experience managing a caseload with a degree of autonomy.
• Progression towards, or interest in pursuing, CILEX, SQE, or other recognised legal qualifications.

What’s on Offer?

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Clear career progression pathways within a growing department.
• Flexible working arrangements available following probation.
• The opportunity to work within a highly respected Family and Childcare team with an excellent local reputation.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious Childcare Paralegal looking to take the next step in their career within a firm that genuinely invests in its people. If you are passionate about Childcare Law and committed to delivering exceptional client service, we would be delighted to hear from you. To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering letter outlining your relevant experience.