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- Tasks: Prepare and advocate cases in child and adult safeguarding law.
- Company: Join one of the largest legal practices in Kirklees.
- Benefits: Great staff benefits, training, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and adults.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with relevant experience in safeguarding law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
This position is being advertised for Principal Lawyers with optional areas of focus: Principal Lawyer – Adult Focus and Principal Lawyer – Children Focus. Candidates may specify whether they are seeking an adult service role or children’s focus role.
As one of the largest legal practices in the area, our dedicated Legal Service teams strive to get the best outcomes for people in Kirklees.
The Safeguarding Children and Adults Team is one of the specialist teams within Kirklees Legal Services. We act for the council on a range of matters including Public Law Proceedings relating to children and cases in relation to vulnerable adults in the Court of Protection. We work closely with the council’s social work teams who provide services to vulnerable children and adults.
As part of this role, you will be expected to prepare cases for court using our excellent case management and court bundling systems. You will also appear as an advocate and instruct counsel where required, specifically within the field of child safeguarding and/or adult social care and safeguarding. We are looking for someone with a positive approach who enjoys working as part of a team. You will be supported by our Senior Lawyers, Assistant Legal Officers and Business Support team.
If you are ambitious to develop your skills and knowledge in legal services, and want to know more about the legal issues that affect local authorities – this is the role for you. We put a strong emphasis on training and personal development, and want to support you to be the best you can be.
You will be a qualified Solicitor (or Barrister) holding a current practising certificate, or you will be a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives who holds a Civil Proceedings Certificate (or who is a Legal Executive Advocate). You will also have the ability and experience of drafting application forms and complex court documentation to support Local Authority applications in public law children act proceedings and applications in the Court of Protection.
We are looking for someone with experience in at least one of the following areas, but experience in more than one area would be beneficial:
- Children Act 1989 – Public & Private Law Applications
- Adoption and Children Act 2002 – Public & Private Law Applications
- Care Act 2014
- Mental Health Act 1983, Community Care, Mental Capacity Act
- Advocacy in public & private children proceedings
- Advocacy in public or private law adoption or special guardianship applications
- Judicial Review/Administrative Law
Our employees are at the very heart of the services we provide to the community. In return, we will make sure you are rewarded with a great range of staff benefits to support you in and out of work.
Principal Lawyer - Children and Adults Safeguarding Team - Childrens OR Adults Focus Back in Huddersfield employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
Contact Detail:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Lawyer - Children and Adults Safeguarding Team - Childrens OR Adults Focus Back in Huddersfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in safeguarding. They might have insider info on job openings or can even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Children Act and Care Act. We want you to showcase your expertise and passion for safeguarding during those crucial conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that excite you! Use our website to find positions that match your skills and interests, especially in children or adult safeguarding.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Lawyer - Children and Adults Safeguarding Team - Childrens OR Adults Focus Back in Huddersfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in either children or adult safeguarding. We want to see how your skills align with the specific focus you're interested in, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Legal Expertise: We’re looking for qualified solicitors or barristers, so be sure to emphasise your qualifications and any relevant experience you have with public law proceedings. This is your chance to shine, so let us know what makes you a great fit!
Be Clear and Concise: When drafting your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out. Remember, we’re busy folks, and a well-structured application will catch our eye!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super simple to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the key legislation relevant to the role, such as the Children Act 1989 and the Care Act 2014. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show your expertise and commitment to safeguarding.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare examples of your advocacy experience, especially in public law proceedings or cases involving vulnerable adults. Be ready to discuss specific cases where you made a significant impact, as this will highlight your practical skills.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with social work teams, be prepared to talk about your experience in collaborative environments. Share instances where teamwork led to successful outcomes, showcasing your ability to work well with others.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics and ongoing training opportunities. This not only shows your interest in the role but also your ambition for personal development within the legal services field.