At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's safeguarding services and provide expert legal advice in childcare law.
- Company: Join a supportive Council's Safeguarding and Education Legal Team.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a dynamic legal environment with career growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with opportunities to attend court and engage with various stakeholders.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or equivalent with at least five years' experience in childcare law.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Hays is recruiting on behalf of a Council for an experienced Solicitor - Childcare to join their busy and supportive Safeguarding and Education Legal Team on an interim basis. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced legal professional to play a key role in supporting children's safeguarding services, providing specialist advice, and representing the Council in childcare proceedings.
The successful candidate will undertake a varied caseload covering all aspects of childcare law and safeguarding matters. You will provide expert legal advice and support to Social Care teams, Sandwell Children's Trust, officers, and elected Members, ensuring the Council meets its statutory responsibilities in relation to children at risk.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing all aspects of legal work relating to childcare proceedings.
- Advising on social care matters including early help, discharges, adoptions, child assessments, and safeguarding issues.
- Representing the Council in childcare hearings, attending court up to three days per week.
- Providing legal advice and support to Council officers, Members, and relevant panels, committees, and meetings.
- Delivering training to Social Workers on child protection legislation and procedures.
- Providing specialist legal advice in relation to children at risk or potential risk of harm.
- Instructing Counsel and Advocates where appropriate to represent the Council's interests.
- Managing competing priorities and working effectively within a fast-paced environment.
About You
To be considered for this role, you will be:
- A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive (FILEX).
- Educated to degree level or equivalent.
- Have a minimum of five years' post-qualification experience.
- Experienced in childcare law and safeguarding matters within a local authority setting.
- Confident attending and conducting court hearings.
- Able to provide clear, practical legal advice to a wide range of stakeholders.
- Organised and capable of managing a demanding caseload under pressure.
- Adaptable, reliable, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Detail-oriented with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Flexible and willing to attend court hearings and meetings in person when required.
If you have substantial childcare and safeguarding experience and are looking for your next interim opportunity within local government, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact Gemma Meah at Hays for a confidential discussion.
Solicitor - Childcare in Birmingham employer: Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
Join a forward-thinking IT team where your expertise in Dynamics 365 and Power Platform will be valued and nurtured. We offer a flexible hybrid working environment, a comprehensive benefits package, and ample opportunities for professional growth, ensuring that you can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to impactful projects. Our collaborative work culture encourages innovation and supports your development as you help shape critical business solutions.
Contact Details:
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor - Childcare in Birmingham
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We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor - Childcare in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited, 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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and the specific role of Solicitor - Childcare. 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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited
✨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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited.
✨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 Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited.
