Job Description

Social Care Lawyer

• Hourly Rate: £60
• Location: Warrington
• Job Type: Full-time, Temporary, Hybrid (with potential to go fully remote)

We are seeking a Social Care Lawyer with expertise in asylum seeker cases and age assessments to join our Legal Department's Safeguarding Team. This role is crucial in providing legal advice and services to client departments and the Council, focusing on Children's Services.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Provide legal advice, guidance, and support on Children's Services matters, particularly duties towards asylum seekers and challenges to local authority decision-making.
• Conduct advocacy at all levels, including before the Single Family Court and other appropriate tribunals.
• Proactively respond to requests for legal advice and advise on the impact of legislation as appropriate.
• Prepare for Child Care Advocacy, including preparation of bundles, skeleton arguments, care plans, and statements, ensuring compliance with the Public Law Outline.
• Attend internal and external meetings, multi-agency meetings, and liaise with legal representatives and counsel as required.
• Deputise for the Senior Solicitor (Children's Safeguarding) and occasionally for the Legal Services Manager (Safeguarding).
• Provide occasional supervision to junior staff such as Senior Legal Assistants, Legal Assistants, Trainee Solicitors, and Legal Apprentices.
• Ensure all duties are carried out with full regard to confidentiality, data protection regulations, and the Council's safeguarding policies.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Social Care Lawyer, specifically with asylum seekers and age assessments.
• Ability to undertake legal duties with regard to the Council's policies and strategies.
• Strong advocacy skills and experience in handling cases before family courts and tribunals.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and compliance with legal standards.

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly rate of £60.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangement with the potential to transition to fully remote work.
• Opportunity to work within a supportive team and contribute to significant community-focused legal services.

To apply for the Social Care Lawyer position, please submit your CV by clicking Apply Now.