At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on adult social care and mental health legislation while managing your own caseload.
- Company: Join the South London Legal Partnership, a dynamic in-house legal service.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £3,000 welcome payment, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working in a high-pressure team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of adult social care law and a passion for public service.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Founded in 2011, the South London Legal Partnership (SLLP) is the in-house legal service for the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames and the London Boroughs of Merton, Richmond upon Thames, Sutton and Wandsworth. SLLP is committed to being a high performing in-house shared legal service which plays an essential part in the achievement of the priorities and objectives of our five local authorities for the benefit of their communities.
The partnership has 150-160 staff and a turnover of £14 million. Over 1 million people are represented by the constituent councils. Operating at scale has enabled it to recruit and retain excellent staff and to provide a consistently high standard of service to our five Boroughs.
The Adult Social Care team and Education team are a busy sub group within the Social Care team and an exciting opportunity has arisen to work within the Adults Social Care team for an Expert Practitioner Lawyer, to be able to demonstrate good knowledge and experience of relevant legislation covering adult social care, mental health and specifically the jurisdiction of the Court of Protection for all 5 Boroughs Authorities served by SLLP. You will advise on a variety of matters relating to adult social care, mental health and manage your own caseload of Court of Protection matters.
We are looking for energetic and enthusiastic applicants, keen to develop their skills in a public sector environment who can work flexibly and collaboratively within a high-pressure team. In return, you will be supported to develop your skills in a nurturing environment. Please do not be put off if you have not worked in local government before - it is your determination to provide a top-class legal service which will matter most.
SLLP’s Vision & Values include a commitment to improving services through the development of our staff in an inclusive and supportive environment. We aim to attract and retain a workforce which reflects the diverse communities we serve.
Please note we will not accept applications where AI-chatbox has been used within the application. The £3,000 welcome payment is only applicable to new employees to Merton Council. Interviews will be held on the 1st October 2026.
Further information can be found at South London Legal Partnership | (join-sllp.com). To discuss the role further please contact Pamela Clarke: pamela.clarke@merton.gov.uk
Expert Practitioner Adults Lawyer employer: London Borough of Merton
The London Borough of Merton is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises neurodiversity and professional growth. With opportunities for career development and a flexible hybrid working model, employees can thrive in their roles while making a meaningful impact on the lives of secondary school pupils. The competitive salary package, along with comprehensive training support, makes this position particularly attractive for those seeking a rewarding career in speech and language therapy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Expert Practitioner Adults Lawyer
✨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 London Borough of Merton, 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 Expert Practitioner Adults Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at London Borough of Merton, 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 London Borough of Merton and the specific role of Expert Practitioner Adults Lawyer. 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 London Borough of Merton’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Merton
✨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 London Borough of Merton.
✨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 London Borough of Merton.
