At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice on children's social care and manage complex court cases.
- Company: Solihull Council, committed to equality and diversity.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, and access to support services.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- 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 advocacy.
The predicted salary is between 54495 - 61379 € per year.
Location: Council House, Solihull / Hybrid
Salary and Working Hours: £54,495 – £61,379 per annum (pay award pending). Incremental progression is subject to performance. Full‑time 37 hours per week (part‑time applications will be considered).
Responsibilities:
- Provide robust, clear, high level, and expert legal advice on a range of issues relating to children’s social care, including at Legal Gateway Panels and policy and procedures.
- Manage a varied, demanding, and complex caseload of public law care and related court proceedings and undertake advocacy before the Birmingham Family Court.
- Supervise and support solicitors and legal assistants across the wider team, manage their performance and development, and ensure quality and service standards are maintained.
- Represent Legal Services and the Council at internal and external (multi‑agency) meetings as and when necessary, including LFJB subgroups.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Qualified solicitor, barrister, or Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives with practising rights and authorised to conduct litigation.
- In‑depth understanding of the legal framework relating to children’s social care.
- Recent and extensive technical knowledge and legal practice in conducting complex public law (Children Act 1989) proceedings, including advocacy.
- Supervisory experience or an aptitude for managing and supervising staff.
- Excellent judgement, strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, and exceptional written and verbal communication.
- Previous experience working within a local authority legal department would be desirable.
What We Offer:
- A range of flexible working options, including hybrid working and a flex‑time scheme.
- Generous annual leave, with the option to purchase up to 10 additional days per year.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a free, confidential 24‑hour advice and support service.
- Family and carer‑friendly policies.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Staff discounts, subsidised travel passes and the Cycle 2 Work Scheme.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Solihull Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves and succeed on merit.
Senior Solicitor (Childcare) employer: WMJobs
Solihull Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible working options, generous annual leave, and access to comprehensive support services, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the field of children's social care. The Council's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures that all staff members are valued and empowered to succeed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Solicitor (Childcare)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience in children's social care. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential colleagues and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the Children Act 1989 and recent case law. We want you to showcase your expertise and demonstrate how you can handle complex public law proceedings with confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your supervisory experience! If you've managed teams before, make sure to share examples of how you've supported and developed others. This is key for the Senior Solicitor role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing that interview! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to the fantastic work we do at Solihull Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Solicitor (Childcare)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in childcare law. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Expertise:When detailing your qualifications, emphasise your in-depth understanding of the legal framework relating to children’s social care. We’re looking for someone who can provide robust legal advice, so let that shine through!
Highlight Your Supervisory Skills:If you have experience managing or supervising staff, make sure to mention it! We value strong leadership qualities, so share examples of how you've supported and developed your team in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the legal framework surrounding children's social care, especially the Children Act 1989. Be ready to discuss your recent experiences with complex public law proceedings and how you've applied your knowledge in real cases.
✨Showcase Your Supervisory Skills
Since this role involves managing and supporting other solicitors and legal assistants, be prepared to share examples of your supervisory experience. Talk about how you've developed team members and maintained quality standards in your previous roles.
✨Prepare for Advocacy Scenarios
Expect to discuss your advocacy experience, particularly in family court settings. Think of specific cases where your judgement and problem-solving skills made a difference, and be ready to explain your approach to handling challenging situations.
✨Engage with the Council's Values
Familiarise yourself with Solihull Council's commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment and why these values matter to you personally and professionally.
