At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and families through challenging legal cases in child protection.
- Company: Join a recognised legal team dedicated to community improvement and professional excellence.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, flexible working, health support, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for training and volunteering.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Experienced solicitor or barrister with strong advocacy and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 33987 - 40000 £ per year.
Have you got what it takes to support us in driving change and delivering positive change for children and families in a growing, diverse city? The Southampton, Havant and Fareham Legal Services Partnership is an outcome focused service recognised for its dedication to improving the communities in which we live and work and delivering professional excellence. Winner of the Lawyers in Local Government Awards ‘Project Team of the Year’ in 2017, the Partnership went from strength to strength taking the top award for overall winner of Legal Team of the Year in 2018.
We provide strategic and professional advice and services covering all aspects of local government law.
A lawyer specialising in child protection is required to join our People and Courts Team. We want you to join our dynamic and growing team dealing with high profile and challenging cases, covering all aspects of children’s social care including care proceedings, pre-proceedings, adoption and deprivation of liberty matters, supporting the Council's priority to become a child-friendly city and for children to live safe and healthy lives. In this role you will be required to attend court to represent Southampton City Council at in‑person court hearings.
We are looking for an experienced solicitor or barrister with substantial subject area experience, strong advocacy, negotiating and advisory skills and competence with IT and case management systems. You will need an enabling, positive approach to finding solutions to complex problems and have good appreciation of risk management / the ability to work flexibly across a multi skilled team.
Please note that depending on your level of expertise, you will be appointed to Grade 11 with salary up to £58,865.
This post requires a Standard DBS check. Please note the salary quoted is based on full time hours (37 hours). The Working Hours for this role are 37 Hours Per Week.
Here at SCC we have a range of different benefits, a few examples can be found below:
- Excellent local government pension with 15.2% employer contribution
- Death in service benefit of x3 salary, and optional salary sacrifice shared cost AVC (additional voluntary contribution)
- Generous holiday 25–31 days, based on role and service
- Flexible working options (role-dependent)
- Family-friendly policies - Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, Shared/Unpaid Parental Leave, Time off for Dependents
- Training and development, including coaching and mentoring
- Health and wellbeing support - Employee Assistance Programme, Menopause Pledge, Mental Health First Aiders and access to a variety of staff networks
- Veteran-friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant
- Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform
- Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres
- Sustainable travel benefits - low emission car scheme, cycle to work, season ticket loans
- Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer
For further information and details regarding the position please contact Claire Markwell, Senior Barrister (Child Protection Team) Legal and Governance on 023 8083 2345 or email Claire.markwell@southampton.gov.uk.
Child Protection Solicitor/Barrister in Southampton employer: Southampton City Council
Join our vibrant partnership of six schools in Southampton and the New Forest, where we prioritise a rich learning experience for every child. As a Classroom Play Assistant, you will be part of a collaborative and supportive team dedicated to nurturing confident learners and responsible citizens. With a strong focus on employee development and a commitment to safeguarding, we offer a fulfilling work culture that values diversity and encourages personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Child Protection Solicitor/Barrister in Southampton
✨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 Southampton City Council, 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 Child Protection Solicitor/Barrister in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Southampton City Council, 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 Southampton City Council and the specific role of Child Protection Solicitor/Barrister. 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 Southampton City Council’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southampton City Council
✨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 Southampton City Council.
✨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 Southampton City Council.
