Are you passionate about supporting vulnerable adults and making a difference in the community? Would you thrive in a committed, friendly, and supportive team? We are seeking a dedicated and proactive paralegal to join our Adult Social Care Team. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of local government, supporting vital services that protect and empower adults in need.
The role involves supporting all Adult Social Care matters, including Safeguarding, Mental Capacity, Court of Protection proceedings, Deferred Payment Agreements, Deprivation of Liberty, and Judicial Reviews.
The position offers the chance to work on challenging and rewarding cases that directly impact the lives of those in need. You will be part of a team committed to delivering high-quality legal services in the public sector.
Staffordshire County Council values work-life balance, and our extensive benefits package reflects this. Our offerings include a generous holiday entitlement that increases with service, an annual leave purchase scheme, flexible and hybrid working options (where appropriate), employee discounts, a local government pension scheme, optional car lease, and staff parking discounts. We also support family-friendly policies such as maternity, adoption, paternity, and parental leave.
Main Responsibilities
* Providing full administrative and practical support on a varied caseload of ASC matters, including Safeguarding, Mental Capacity, Court of Protection proceedings, Deferred Payment Agreements, Deprivation of Liberty, and Judicial Reviews.
* Progressing Deferred Payment Agreements within an Adult Social Care context.
* Working as part of a designated team to secure monies owed to the Council; liaising with finance, handling queries, and securing charges with the land registry.
* Adhering to the Legal Services Unit’s quality standards (Lexcel), including accurate time-recording.
* Handling confidential data sensitively and securely in line with policy.
The Ideal Candidate
* Strong organisational skills and proficiency in recording and monitoring progress on spreadsheets (essential).
* Clear, confident communication skills with client departments (essential).
* Meticulous attention to detail and ability to use own initiative (essential).
* Effective time management and ability to work under pressure (essential).
* Experience with Deferred Payment Agreements/Cautions and debt securing for a Local Authority (desirable).
* Basic understanding of Adult Social Care law and Mental Health Law (desirable).
* Experience dealing with Property/Wills/Trusts (desirable).
* Understanding of public sector services (desirable).
If you are unsure whether your skills and experience suit this role or have questions, please contact Wendy Lofthouse, Deputy Legal Services Manager, wendy.lofthouse@staffordshire.gov.uk.
Interview Date: 26 August 2025
About Staffordshire County Council
We are a unique county council with core values shaped by staff feedback and best practices. Our values foster community spirit, ambition, and a focus on a better future. We aim to create a supportive environment where employees can thrive and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Our benefits include access to rewards and benefits programs, and we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Staffordshire County Council is an equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer, offering a guaranteed interview for applicants meeting minimum criteria.
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