Lawyer (Children & Families Legal Service)
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract type: Permanent, full time
Closing date: 11.59pm, 9 November 2025
Interview method: in person
Application: CV and detailed Expression of Interest setting out how your skills and experience meet the requirements on the attached role profile.
Responsibilities
* Have knowledge of the law relating to children and families and be able to develop advocacy skills to represent the Council in complex contested proceedings.
* Be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate, able and committed to working in a flexible manner including outside normal office hours, when the role necessitates the same.
* Be a key member of the group, confident and able to work independently and act upon your own initiative.
* Be able to evidence personal commitment to continuous self development and service improvement.
* Represent the local authority at court on a regular basis and manage your own caseload with minimal supervision.
Qualifications & Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate.
* DBS clearance: appointees will be required to apply for a Standard DBS check. Information provided will be handled confidentially in accordance with the DBS Code of Practice. A policy on Ex-Offenders is available upon request.
* This position may be subject to TUPE Transfer to Rochdale Borough Council.
What You Will Do
* Develop and apply knowledge of children and families law to advocacy and advisory work for the Council.
* Draft legal documentation and provide advice to clients; collaborate with a team and work independently with own caseload.
* Communicate effectively, both written and verbal, and advocate in court when required.
Culture & Benefits
* Generous holiday allowance: up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of service; option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
* Participation in the local government pension scheme with life cover.
* Enhanced parental and carers leave and a range of discounts and learning opportunities.
* Volunteering leave (up to 3 days, pro-rata).
Support & Inclusion
* Disability Confident Employer with adjustments, networks, and accessibility supports.
* Interview adjustments and accessible formats available.
* Right to work in the UK verification requirements and pre-employment checks.
For more information about the role or any adjustments, email jobs@manchester.gov.uk.
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