3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking an experienced Locum Solicitor to join its Children’s Social Care Legal team on a temporary basis.
• The role will provide legal advice and representation on matters relating to children and families, supporting the Council in meeting its statutory duties.
• The post offers hybrid working and requires a solicitor with strong experience in public law children matters within a local authority setting.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Provide legal advice and support to Children’s Social Care on public law children matters.
• Manage a caseload including care proceedings, supervision orders, emergency protection orders and related applications.
• Represent the Council in court proceedings, including advocacy where appropriate.
• Draft and review legal documents, reports, statements and court applications.
• Advise social workers, managers and senior officers on legal risk, compliance and best practice.
• Ensure cases are progressed efficiently in line with statutory timescales and court directions.
• Liaise with external bodies including courts, barristers, CAFCASS and partner agencies.
• Maintain accurate case records and comply with confidentiality and data protection requirements.
• Support service delivery during periods of increased demand.
Skills/Experience:
• Proven experience handling public law children cases within a local authority setting.
• Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, guidance and case law.
• Experience of court work and legal advocacy.
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and work to tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong professional judgement and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Confident using legal case management systems and IT tools.
Additional Information:
• The closing date: 25/12/2025.
• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with experience in Children’s Social Care law.
• Hours: 36 hours per week.
• Location: Trinity Road, Bootle, Merseyside (Hybrid working).