Job Summary
Cardiff Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Legal Officer (Child Care) to join the Governance and Legal Services Directorate within the Community Legal Team.
Key Duties / Accountabilities
* Manage a caseload of childcare (public and private law) and related legal matters under the supervision of senior lawyers or operational managers.
* Provide clear and robust legal advice to client departments on matters relating to Childrens Services and Adult Services.
* Prepare applications to court for orders, draft statements, position papers and other relevant legal documents.
* Represent the Council at Legal Planning Meetings, PLO Meetings and other relevant forums.
* Liaise effectively with social workers, witnesses, counsel, solicitors and external agencies to progress cases efficiently.
* Ensure quality assurance of documentation including Section 7 and Section 37 reports, witness statements, PLO letters and risk assessments.
* Keep abreast of developments in childcare and local government law, applying updates to practice and procedure.
* Support and mentor Legal Officers and Assistants within the team as required.
* Contribute to service improvement and promote best practice within Legal Services.
* Uphold confidentiality, professional standards and compliance with safeguarding and data protection legislation.
* Actively promote and adhere to the Councils Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety and Safeguarding policies.
Skills & Experience
* Proven experience managing a childcare law caseload ideally within a local authority or public sector legal environment.
* Excellent drafting and written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, concise legal documents.
* Strong knowledge of public law childcare proceedings including PLO and court processes.
* Ability to interpret and apply legislation, regulations and case law effectively to provide sound legal advice.
* Skilled in case management systems and proficient in IT including word processing and document management.
* Ability to work with minimal supervision, prioritising workload and meeting tight deadlines.
* Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to build positive relationships across services and external agencies.
* Understanding of local government functions and experience advising on social care‑related legal issues.
* Commitment to professional development, equality, confidentiality and the delivery of a high‑quality legal service.
Additional Information
Qualified Legal Executive (CILEx) or equivalent legal qualification (minimum requirement).
Hours
37 per week (Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00).
Disclosure Requirement
Enhanced DBS (role exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act).
Remote Working
Remote working.
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