At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Child Protection Lawyers in a dynamic and friendly legal team.
- Company: Derbyshire County Council, committed to employee wellbeing and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for training and mentoring.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Proficient IT skills and strong organisational and interpersonal abilities.
The predicted salary is between 26300 - 28700 £ per year.
Working in local government is a highly satisfying and rewarding experience in so many ways, and you will enjoy an excellent range of benefits at Derbyshire County Council. We recognise that our workforce is our greatest asset, and we are currently looking for an inspired and proactive person to join our Family, Safeguarding and Education Team.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Legal department for an enthusiastic and committed individual to work as a Fixed Term Child Protection Legal Assistant to support our team of Child Protection Lawyers and other Legal Assistants who work within a busy yet friendly team environment.
On a day‑to‑day basis you will be supporting Lawyers who are advising and representing Children’s Services on matters of Child Protection including adoption. Your workload will be varied but will include offering support in pre‑proceedings matters and assisting Lawyers conducting Court work. You will regularly need to liaise with the wider team, social workers, Lawyers and Court staff.
You will need to be proficient in using IT software, and have good organisational, motivational, and interpersonal skills in order to ensure the continued delivery of an efficient and effective service by the legal department.
In return for your commitment, we offer you:
- Grade 9 Salary £32,347 -£34,317 depending on experience.
- 25 days of annual leave plus 8 bank holidays.
- Good work/life balance including Flexi time, allowing up to an additional 2 days of leave per month.
- Training and development opportunities.
- Mentoring.
- A supportive team environment.
- Generous local government pension scheme.
- Guaranteed incremental annual pay increases.
- Access to a comprehensive wellbeing package.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Discounts at selected county leisure centres and much more!
Legal Services are contractually based in Matlock, Derbyshire, but as part of our Modern Ways of Working programme we are currently working on a hybrid basis. As flexible workers, you will be able to work from home. It is a requirement that you will be able to work in the office once per week and meetings, where necessary.
We’re always pleased to hear from talented people so if you’re looking to join a dynamic team and have the skills and experience, we’re looking for, then we’d like to hear from you.
Provisional Interview Date: 29th January 2026
Legal Assistant in Matlock employer: East Midlands Jobs
Derbyshire County Council is an exceptional employer that values its workforce as its greatest asset, offering a supportive and friendly team environment within the Family, Safeguarding and Education Team. Employees benefit from a competitive salary, generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and extensive training and development opportunities, all while contributing to meaningful work in child protection. With a commitment to employee wellbeing and a modern approach to work, including hybrid options, this role provides a fulfilling career path in local government.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Assistant in Matlock
✨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 East Midlands Jobs, 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 Legal Assistant in Matlock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at East Midlands Jobs, 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 East Midlands Jobs and the specific role of Legal Assistant. 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 East Midlands Jobs’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Midlands Jobs
✨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 East Midlands Jobs.
✨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 East Midlands Jobs.
