Childcare Lawyer in Chelmsford

Job description

Childcare Lawyer with a Local Authority in the South East

Working arrangement: Hybrid – minimum two days per week in office

Contract type: Permanent, full-time

Salary: £46,000 – £52,400 per annum

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Childcare Lawyer to join a highly regarded and forward-thinking Legal Services team within a South East local authority. This position offers the chance to work within a well-structured and supportive environment where professional development is actively encouraged.

As a key member of the Childcare and Safeguarding team, you will provide high-quality legal advice and representation on all aspects of public law children’s cases, supporting the authority in protecting vulnerable children and delivering positive outcomes for families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and advise on a varied caseload of care proceedings, adoption proceedings, and related public law matters

• Handle Deprivation of Liberty (DoL) and Secure Accommodation proceedings

• Draft applications, case management documents, threshold statements, orders, and case summaries

• Advise on Section 7 and Section 37 reports and provide clear, pragmatic legal advice to social care professionals

• Undertake advocacy in court as required

• Lead and manage both routine and complex cases under the guidance of the Principal Lawyer

• Supervise and develop up to three Legal Assistants, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture

About You:

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate (England & Wales)

• Ideally 0–3 years’ post-qualification experience in childcare or family law (public sector experience desirable)

• Detailed understanding of the Children Act 1989, Adoption and Children Act 2002, and associated legislation

• Confident advocate with strong drafting, analytical, and case management skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to advise clearly and sensitively

• Committed to continuous professional development and contributing positively to the wider team

This role offers an excellent platform for a developing childcare lawyer to gain exposure to a broad and rewarding caseload within a supportive and respected local authority environment.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Chelmsford

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Published at

20-10-2025

Profession type

Home Care Jobs

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English