At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal services for public sector clients, focusing on SEN and education law.
- Company: Pathfinder Legal Services, a supportive and dynamic legal team.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, and excellent pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team with opportunities for professional growth and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of clients while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Experience in SEN law and strong management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Working on a hybrid-remote basis from any of our offices; Huntingdon, Northampton or Shefford.
Contract: Permanent, Full time
MAIN ACCOUNTABILITIES
- To work as part of a team in the provision of a professional legal service to a range of public sector and not for profit clients regarding SEN and education, ensuring awareness of and compliance with legal duties within client organisations and protecting their best interests.
- To manage a case load of complex cases, comprising mainly SEN Tribunal cases, with minimum supervision.
- To undertake advocacy in case management hearings and final hearings in the first tier SEND Tribunal and to instruct counsel as appropriate.
- To ensure the effective identification and awareness of risks associated with the relevant areas of legal practice.
- To attend client liaison meetings to discuss ongoing cases and provide reassurance of a high quality service.
- To act as a point of contact on a variety of cases, to include taking instructions and giving advice, carrying out research, preparing applications, drafting documents and correspondence, commissioning and instructing expert witnesses, liaising with witnesses, attending meetings and providing advice and representation in courts or tribunals.
- To develop, train and advise clients in legal skills and specific areas of law as appropriate.
- To support the Pathfinder Legal Services management team in building and maintaining effective working relationships with clients to ensure the delivery of a seamless and client focussed service.
- To support the Pathfinder Legal Services management team by complying with all SRA and practice management requirements including time recording, billing, Lexcel and other accreditation schemes.
- To support the Pathfinder Legal Services management team in developing and maintaining effective partnerships, networks and joint working arrangements to ensure the most effective provision of legal services to meet the needs and aspirations of clients.
- To make a positive contribution to the Litigation Team and contribute to the development, training or mentoring of colleagues where required.
- Manage the activities of the team to include performance, caseloads and productivity, motivation and development, recruitment and selection and appraisals.
- Supervise other members of the team in a line management capacity.
- To provide overall management of the team's complex and politically sensitive case load to ensure the provision of high quality, well researched and comprehensive legal advice within the timescales required by the client.
- Provide supervision and manage the work of the team to ensure that professional guidance is given, that expertise is employed and work is allocated appropriately within the team.
- To carry out other duties which fall within the broad spirit, scope and purpose of the job description as required by the Director of Pathfinder Legal Services, Heads of Service or Principal Lawyers from time to time and which are commensurate with the grade of the post.
- To act as an authorised signatory for an appropriate shareholder client.
- To buddy, train and support colleagues.
Benefits
- Local Government Pensions Scheme – considered to be one of the best employer contribution rates.
- Flexible working arrangements – we offer flexible hours and hybrid working which allows for remote working but we also require regular office attendance with the aim to give everyone a balanced work/life ratio.
- Family Friendly policies including excellent Maternity, Paternity and Adoption entitlements.
- An exceptional Employee Assistance Program which helps supports employees with workplace changes as well as other work, family and personal issues.
- A generous minimum annual leave entitlement of 25 days, rising on 5 and 10 years service, plus public holidays. With the option to purchase more annual leave.
To apply for this position please send your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the Person Specification to recruitment@pathfinderlegal.co.uk. When applying, please quote reference 'LIT-059'. Closing date for applications: 5th June 2026 at 12:00pm. PLEASE NOTE: we will only accept applications where a supporting covering letter showing how you meet the person specification and a CV is submitted.
Senior Lawyer with management responsibilities (SEN) in Northampton employer: Pathfinder Legal Services Ltd
Pathfinder Legal Services is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible working arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and a commitment to family-friendly policies, we ensure our team members can achieve a healthy work-life balance while making a meaningful impact in the public sector and not-for-profit legal landscape. Our focus on collaboration and mentorship fosters an environment where employees can thrive and develop their skills in a dynamic and rewarding setting.
Contact Details:
Pathfinder Legal Services Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Lawyer with management responsibilities (SEN) in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work with SEN and education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your advocacy skills. Since you'll be managing complex cases, practice discussing your approach to case management and how you handle sensitive situations. We want to see your confidence shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership abilities! When you're chatting with potential employers, highlight your experience in managing teams and mentoring colleagues. They’ll love to hear how you can contribute to their team dynamics.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Lawyer with management responsibilities (SEN) in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Lawyer role. Highlight your experience with SEN and education law, as well as any management responsibilities you've had. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain how you meet the person specification and why you're passionate about working with public sector and not-for-profit clients. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Advocacy Skills:Since advocacy is a key part of this role, make sure to mention any relevant experience in case management hearings or tribunals. We want to know how you can represent our clients effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It makes the process smoother for us and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow instructions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pathfinder Legal Services Ltd
✨Know Your SEN Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Special Educational Needs (SEN) law and the latest developments in education legislation. Being able to discuss recent cases or changes in the law will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you're genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Showcase Your Management Skills
Since this role involves management responsibilities, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams and managing caseloads. Think of specific examples where you've motivated your team or improved productivity, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the managerial aspects of the job.
✨Prepare for Advocacy Scenarios
Anticipate questions about your advocacy experience, especially in tribunal settings. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully represented clients in hearings, including any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will highlight your practical skills and confidence in a courtroom environment.
✨Client-Centric Mindset
This role requires a strong focus on client relationships. Prepare to discuss how you've built and maintained effective working relationships with clients in the past. Share examples of how you've provided reassurance and high-quality service, as this will align with the company's commitment to client satisfaction.
