At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex child care cases and provide expert legal guidance.
- Company: Join Duncan Lewis, a leading UK law firm with a commitment to justice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent progression opportunities, and support for legal awards.
- Other info: Diverse and supportive team environment with a focus on professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with 2+ years' PQE in Children Law and strong management skills.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 52000 £ per year.
Duncan Lewis Solicitors is a leading UK law firm with over 500 professionals and offices nationwide. Recognised by The Legal 500, Chambers & Partners UK, and The Times Best Law Firms, we provide expert legal services across more than 25 practice areas while championing access to justice and supporting some of the most vulnerable members of society.
As the UK's largest provider of publicly funded legal services, we are proud holders of Investors in People Gold accreditation and recipients of multiple Law Firm of the Year awards. Our ethos is simple: we give people a voice.
Department Background: Our highly specialised Child Care Department is ranked and recommended by The Legal 500 UK and Chambers & Partners UK independent legal directories for its expertise in all aspects of child care law. Our Child Care team represents children, parents, guardians, and family members in a wide range of complex child care matters, including care proceedings, adoption, child arrangements, surrogacy, and international child abduction cases.
Main Responsibilities of the Role:
- Report directly to Department Director
- Responsible for all aspects of Child Care work including providing technical expertise and guidance to other team members
- Ability to manage and supervise Trainee Solicitors and Caseworkers
- Assisting with delivery of appropriate training and development in the department
- Variety of duties including dealing with a range of public and private children cases
- Professional pro-active approach, strong client care skills and interest in Business Development and Marketing
Key Skills Required:
- Qualified Solicitor with 2+ years' PQE in Children Law
- Must have a clean, valid Practising Certificate at the time of applying
- Extensive experience in all areas of Child Care Law
- Strong management skills
- Committed team player with ability to foster culture of positive change
- Previous proven supervisory experience
- Excellent networking and communication skills
- Working knowledge of the publicly funded Child Care work
- Experience in own advocacy is an advantage
- Excellent IT Skills - familiar with Microsoft Office applications
What we offer:
- A fantastic supportive team
- Excellent progression opportunities
- Support for appropriate legal awards/recognition
Salary Structure:
- 1 Year PQE: £42,000 - £44,000
- 2 Years PQE: £43,500 - £45,500
- 3 Years PQE: £45,000 - £47,000
- 4+ Years PQE: Competitive / Negotiable, depending on experience
The Company will support your career progression if you decide to pursue Children Panel accreditation with the Law Society or Resolution.
Equal Opportunities: Duncan Lewis is committed to Equal Opportunities and embraces diversity of its staff. We guarantee an interview for candidates that disclose a disability and meet the essential requirements for the post.
Children Law Solicitor (2+ PQE) - City of London employer: Duncan Lewis Solictors
Duncan Lewis Solicitors is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and social justice. As a Public Law Paralegal, you will be part of a nationally recognised team, working on impactful cases that shape legal precedent while enjoying competitive benefits, flexible working options, and clear career progression opportunities in the heart of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Children Law Solicitor (2+ PQE) - City of London
✨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.
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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 Duncan Lewis Solictors, 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 Children Law Solicitor (2+ PQE) - City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Duncan Lewis Solictors, 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 Duncan Lewis Solictors and the specific role of Children Law Solicitor (2+ PQE) - City of London. 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 Duncan Lewis Solictors’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duncan Lewis Solictors
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solictors.
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solictors.
