Job Purpose
The post assists the Head(s) of Legal and/or Assistant Director and the Senior Lawyer in providing a comprehensive legal service to the Council, Directorates, Committees and Members. It includes the delivery of legal advice and representation, operational and risk management oversight, and support for First North Law’s activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert legal advice and representation in care proceedings and family law matters.
- Manage legal queries from the Children and Young People Services Directorate.
- Conduct research to resolve complex legal issues affecting operational matters.
- Collaborate with the legal team to ensure compliance with Law Society Professional Standards and Lexcel accreditation.
- Assist in the preparation and presentation of cases in court and Other tribunal or litigation contexts.
- Supervise and mentor Litigation Executive, Legal Assistant, Paralegal, Apprentice, Trainee and support staff.
- Ensure compliance with Law Society Practice Management Standards, Legal and Democratic Services quality standards and the Legal and Democratic Services Risk Management Policy.
- Support the delivery of a wide range of legal services, including education, social care, employment, property, procurement, housing, environmental, health and safety, and licensing matters.
- Assist in the development and implementation of the Legal and Democratic Services Service Plan and Practice Manual.
- Contribute to the planning, monitoring and reporting of the Legal Service budget and income generation activities.
- Communicate, in person, by email and correspondence, with internal staff, contractors and external clients.
- Maintain case management and time‑costing records using the Legal and Democratic Services systems.
- Provide support to First North Law in ensuring quality legal services to external clients.
- Act as a liaison with local government and other authorities on legal matters.
Legal Areas Covered (Representative of Key Practice Areas)
- Adult Social Care – safeguarding, human rights, mental health, capacity & best‑interests assessments.
- Education – special educational needs, school admissions, tribunals & parent responsibility.
- Children Social Care – litigation under the Children Act 1989 and the Adoption and Children Act 2002, care, supervision, emergency protection and guardianship.
- Employment – unfair dismissal, redundancy, TUPE, discrimination, whistle‑blowing, performance management and apprenticeship matters.
- Commercial & Property – lease procurement, disposal, conveyancing, easements and property acquisition/disposal.
- Procurement – direct procurement, subcontracting, tendering, contracts, grants and subsidies.
- Planning & Licensing – planning applications, statutory orders, environmental health, licensing and enforcement.
- Housing – possession proceedings, Asthma Advisory Service and housing disrepair litigation.
- Health & Safety, Food Safety, Environmental Law – regulatory compliance and enforcement actions.
- Data Protection & Privacy – subject access requests, data sharing, GDPR compliance.
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution – civil claims, judicial reviews, court applications and adjudication.
Essential Knowledge & Experience
- Eligibility: practising certificate as a solicitor, barrister, CILEX or licensed conveyancer.
- Demonstrable knowledge of one of the key legal portfolios listed above.
- Strong legal research and analysis skills.
- Knowledge of court procedures and experience attending court.
- Familiarity with ICT systems, time‑costing and research tools.
- Experience in local government law and risk management within a legal environment.
- Supervisory or mentoring experience.
- Excellent written communication and drafting skills for a variety of audiences.
- Good interpersonal skills and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
Desirable Knowledge & Experience
- In‑depth knowledge of a specific portfolio area (e.g. children, employment, property).
- Familiarity with the political structure and functions of the Council.
- Advanced ICT competency including online research and case‑management systems.
- Experience with judicial review and complex litigation.
- Experience in commercial leasing, procurement or infrastructure development.
Professional Qualifications
- Professional qualification as a lawyer, barrister, CILEX or licensed conveyancer (as applicable).
- Understanding of and commitment to public sector values.
- Ability to travel across the County and work hybrid: Monday in County Hall, Northallerton, with four days worked from home.
Other Requirements
- The role requires a practising certificate – unqualified candidates will not be considered.
- Preferred candidates located in North Yorkshire or surrounding areas due to the partnership with Harrogate.
- Flexibility in working practices and willingness to support First North Law’s services.
Childcare Lawyer Solicitor in Harrogate employer: North Yorkshire Council
North Yorkshire Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located in the picturesque town of Scarborough, employees benefit from a local government pension scheme, generous employee discounts, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community through their work in council tax and business rates management.
