Senior Lawyer - Adult Social Care, Legal Services - Permanent
Southend City Council are looking to appoint a permanent, full‑time Senior Lawyer to manage and advise on all aspects of care proceedings, adoption proceedings and international issues.
Job Summary
The role will involve:
* Advising on and managing all aspects of care proceedings.
* Drafting documents relating to applications under the Children Act 1989, including case management documents, threshold statements, orders and case summaries.
* Representing the Council at court.
* Advising and managing DOL (Deprivation of Liberty) and Secure Accommodation proceedings.
* Dealing with S7 and S37 matters.
* Leading and taking responsibility for routine and complex cases, including High Court applications and Judicial Reviews.
* Managing up to three legal assistants, empowering and engaging them to continually improve and deliver successful outcomes.
Main Duties
As a lawyer within the Council’s well‑respected Legal Services team, you will be managing and advising on all aspects of care proceedings, adoption proceedings and dealing with international issues as and when necessary. The role includes but is not limited to the responsibilities listed above and requires a combination of routine and more complex legal cases, high‑profile matters and politically sensitive issues.
About Us
Southend-on-Sea is a vibrant, diverse coastal city with a growing population and a focus on future development. The Legal Services team has been restructured to align with the Council’s strategic plans, offering a supportive environment for professional growth.
Details
Pay scheme: Depending on experience £53,460 – £58,959
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Full‑time
Reference number: F0033-25-0018
Job location: Southend-on-Sea City Council, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 9SB
Qualifications
Essential:
* Qualified Solicitor/Barrister/Legal Executive with a current England & Wales practising certificate.
Desirable:
* At least 3 years post‑qualification experience within the social care sector.
* Understanding of local government and experience working in a political environment.
* In‑depth knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and procedures.
* Proven experience in the public sector, ideally local government.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to manage complex workloads.
* Commitment to continuous professional development and training.
Other Requirements
Applicants must hold current UK professional registration. A Disclosure and Barring Service check is required under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. Employment is subject to UK registration and DBS verification.
Hybrid working is available; however, you are required to be on site at the Civic Centre at least 2 days a week.
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