Care Caseworker

Join our well-established Legal 500 and Chambers ranked Public Law Care Team. Our team is recognised for handling complex and sensitive childcare cases with professionalism, empathy and integrity. You will be joining a supportive and collaborative firm of experienced solicitors and in-house advocates, where your contribution is genuinely valued.

This is an opportunity to develop your skills, gain meaningful experience and progress within a firm where you can establish a long-term and rewarding career in Family Law.

We are proud to offer an environment where people can thrive both professionally and personally. You will benefit from:

• A collaborative and supportive team culture, working closely with experienced solicitors and advocates
• The opportunity to gain hands-on experience in complex public law childcare work
• A clear and structured pathway for career progression and development
• Exposure to advocacy, court processes and high-quality client care
• A firm where you can grow your profile and build a long-term career

We combine a commitment to excellence in legal work with a genuine focus on wellbeing and work-life balance.

You will play an important role within the Public Law Care Team, supporting fee earners and assisting in the progression of cases. Your responsibilities will include:

• Assisting with Legal Aid funded public law care casework
• Attending client meetings, taking instructions and assisting with case preparation
• Managing correspondence in a professional and timely manner
• Preparing and managing Legal Aid applications
• Drafting documents including witness statements, and assisting with the preparation of evidence and court bundles
• Attending conferences and court hearings with solicitors and counsel

You will assist with a wide range of public law matters, often involving:

• Non-accidental injury
• Abuse, including sexual abuse
• Fabricated or induced illness
• Neglect
• Drug and alcohol misuse
• Mental health issues
• Deprivation of Liberty
• Secure Accommodation
• Cases involving a criminal crossover

You will ideally have:

• A law degree (2:1 or above preferred)
• Previous experience as a paralegal in family law, particularly public law, is advantageous
• A genuine passion for childcare law, with an appreciation of the complex and sensitive nature of this work
• The ability to support clients through emotionally challenging situations, demonstrating professionalism and empathy
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team

Legal 500 ranked Family Department, with every eligible team member recognised as a Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer. Ranked in the UK-wide Chambers & Partners guide for Public Law. A strong reputation for handling complex and high-profile childcare cases. Excellent in-house advocacy capability, supported by leading counsel and experts where required.

Crane & Staples has been Lexcel accredited for over 20 years. All Family team members are part of Resolution. Individual accreditations include:

• Law Society Children Panel
• Resolution Accredited Specialist

At Crane & Staples, community is at the heart of what we do. As a long-established firm in Welwyn Garden City, we take pride in supporting local charities, initiatives and events, and in building strong relationships within our community. We encourage our team members to get involved in community and charity activities if they wish, whether through fundraising events, local partnerships or firm-led initiatives. It is an opportunity to contribute beyond your day-to-day role and be part of a firm that is committed to making a positive local impact.

25 days’ holiday plus 1 day’s birthday leave, 50% contribution to parking costs, enhanced family policies, ongoing training and CPD opportunities, clear route for career progression, discounted legal fees.

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to Karen Angel, Office Manager.

Join Crane & Staples and take the next step in your legal career with a firm that truly values excellence, empathy, integrity and community. You will develop your expertise within a respected and friendly team, becoming an integral part of the firm while building a lasting career.