At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal representation and specialist advice in public law matters for children's services.
- Company: Join a supportive local government team focused on children's welfare.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with experience in public law and local government.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time
Closing date: 11:59pm, 7 June 2026
Interview method: Face to Face
Applicants must have an existing right to work in the UK – visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Role Requirements
- Legal right to work: Must evidence right to work in the UK before commencement of employment.
- References: Minimum 2 references, preferably covering 3 years’ history.
- Qualification and Registration: Qualified Solicitor, Barrister (with Litigation Conduct Authorisation), Chartered Lawyer, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives (with Advocacy Certificate) holding a current practising certificate.
- DBS clearance: Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check required under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
- Casual Car Documentation: Designated Casual Car User may need business travel; must hold a full valid driving licence and provide a vehicle and documentation if driving. Mileage allowance provided.
Role Overview
Principal Lawyer Technical Specialist in the Public Law Sub Group of the Children & Families Legal Group. This role combines management experience with technical specialist work, focusing on children’s services and public law.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide legal representation for children’s services in public law matters.
- Offer specialist advice on Public and Administrative Law, and Local Government Law.
- Support the development and implementation of legal strategies within the legal group.
- Mentor junior staff and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
- Prepare and present legal opinions, submissions and briefings.
Qualifications
- Qualified solicitor or barrister with litigation experience.
- Experience in Public Law and local government legal matters.
- Strong analytical, research and communication skills.
Essential Experience
- Experience working in a public sector legal team.
- Knowledge of the law in relation to children’s services and public administrative law.
Benefits
- Generous holiday allowance: up to 31 days annual leave after five years of service, plus bank holidays.
- Local government pension scheme with life cover.
- Enhanced parental and carer leave.
- Discounts on travel, phone contracts, cycle scheme and health services.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Flexible working arrangements.
Diversity and Inclusion
We actively welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly from BAME communities, disabled people, young people, members of the armed forces, care leavers and those with long‑term conditions.
Application Process
Interested candidates should send an anonymised CV and detailed Expression of Interest outlining how their skills and experience meet the role profile to the following email: jobs@manchester.gov.uk. Please also indicate any required adjustments or accessibility support needed during the interview.
Principal Lawyer Technical Specialist in Manchester employer: Making Manchester Sa
As a Principal Lawyer Technical Specialist, you will thrive in a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. With generous benefits such as up to 31 days of annual leave after five years, a local government pension scheme, and flexible working arrangements, our organisation is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and mentorship, particularly within the public law sector. Join us in making a meaningful impact on children's services while enjoying a rewarding career in a diverse and dynamic team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Lawyer Technical Specialist in Manchester
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Lawyer Technical Specialist in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Making Manchester Sa, 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 Making Manchester Sa and the specific role of Principal Lawyer Technical Specialist. 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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Making Manchester Sa
✨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 Making Manchester Sa.
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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 Making Manchester Sa.
