Job Description Public Family Solicitor – Children Salary: £45,000–£60,000 Location: Luton Are you a passionate Family Solicitor ready to make a real difference in children's lives? Our client, a leading regional law firm, is seeking an experienced Public Law Children Solicitor to join their Legal 500 Tier 1 recognised Public Family Team in Luton. This is your opportunity to work on meaningful cases whilst developing your career in a supportive, collaborative environment. About the Opportunity Join a thriving Public Family Team that combines high-quality legal work with genuine work-life balance. You'll handle complex public law children cases, work with Local Authorities, and have the autonomy to manage your own caseload whilst being supported by experienced Partners and a friendly, inclusive team. This role offers genuine career progression, with support towards achieving Law Society Children Panel accreditation and opportunities to develop your advocacy skills in a fast-paced, rewarding practice area. The Role – What You'll Be Doing Case Management & Client Care: Managing your own caseload of public law children matters from inception to conclusion Representing parents, family members, and children in care proceedings Preparing and managing Legal Aid funding applications to the Legal Aid Agency Conducting advocacy at court hearings (where appropriate) Building and maintaining relationships with Local Authority contacts Professional Development: Working towards or maintaining Law Society Children Panel membership Supporting and mentoring junior team members Participating in CPD and professional development opportunities Contributing to business development and networking initiatives Day-to-Day Responsibilities: Handling new enquiries and client consultations Providing expert legal advice in writing, by phone, and in meetings Maintaining accurate case records and compliance with Lexcel standards Managing client expectations and risk effectively Attending court and client meetings across the region About You – Essential Requirements Experience & Qualifications: 4 years PQE in Family Law, ideally within the Care sector Qualified Solicitor with current practising certificate Experience in public law children proceedings (care orders, placement orders, etc.) Either on the Law Society Children Panel or ready to apply Proven track record of managing Legal Aid cases and funding applications Valid UK driving licence (required for court and client visits) Skills & Attributes: Strong written and oral communication skills with clients, courts, and Local Authorities Excellent file and time management abilities IT literate (case management systems, MS Word, Outlook, Excel) Knowledge of Lexcel quality standards and compliance requirements Self-motivated with ability to work to targets and meet tight deadlines Collaborative team player who can also work autonomously Personal pride in delivering high-quality legal work What's On Offer – Comprehensive Benefits Package Financial & Leave: Competitive salary £45,000–£60,000 (dependent on experience) 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays Auto-enrolment salary sacrifice pension scheme Staff introduction bonus scheme Death in service insurance Professional Development: Regular feedback and development opportunities Full support for CPD and professional qualifications Support towards Law Society Children Panel accreditation Regular contact with Partners for mentoring and guidance Health & Wellbeing: Enhanced sick pay scheme Free annual eye tests Paid flu vaccinations Health cash plan Cycle to work scheme Work Environment: Excellent modern office facilities in central Luton Collaborative, inclusive culture with diverse team of 120 staff Discounted legal advice across all departments Opportunities to participate in company-sponsored charitable events Genuine work-life balance commitment Working Arrangements Location: Luton office (with travel to courts and client meetings as required) Hours: Full-time, 09:00–17:30, Monday to Friday Reporting to: Partner, Public Family Department Why Join This Team? Our client is a well-established regional law firm with a reputation for excellence in Family Law. Their Public Family Team has achieved Legal 500 recognition, demonstrating their commitment to quality and client care. You'll be joining a firm that values diversity, invests in employee development, and genuinely supports work-life balance. This is more than just a job – it's an opportunity to build a rewarding career in a practice area that makes a real difference to vulnerable children and families. Ready to Apply? If you're a dedicated Family Solicitor looking for your next challenge in a supportive, high-performing team, we'd love to hear from you. To apply or discuss this opportunity in confidence, please contact: Mara Watson Recruitment Consultant – Legal Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Email: m.watson@h-fts.com All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.