Salary range £51,356 - £55,604
Employer Pension contribution £11,495 £12,122
Total (Salary + Pension) £62,851 - £67,726
Relocation packages are available for exceptional candidates from outside the area.
As a full-time permanent employee, you’ll also enjoy 26 days of annual leave, rising to 31 days after five years’ service, plus public and bank holidays. Flexible working arrangements and additional leave purchase options are also available.
Shape the Future of Children and Families in Devon
Are you an experienced legal professional with strong expertise in Childcare Law and a passion for improving outcomes for children and young people? Devon County Council is seeking a Senior Lawyer to join our Legal Services team, providing authoritative advice and leadership on complex matters relating to children’s social care, safeguarding, public law proceedings, and statutory responsibilities.
About the Role
As a Senior Lawyer specialising in Childcare, you will deliver high-quality legal support across the Children’s Services directorate. You will manage complex and sensitive cases, advise senior leaders, and contribute to strategic initiatives affecting children and families in Devon.
Responsibilities include:
1. Drafting, negotiating, and preparing documentation for care proceedings and other childcare matters.
2. Providing timely, robust legal advice to senior officers, frontline social workers, and elected members on all aspects of childcare law.
3. Managing and conducting public law litigation, including representing the Council at court.
4. Instructing counsel and specialist advocates where appropriate.
5. Supporting strategic decision-making across the Children’s Services directorate.
6. Line managing and mentoring junior lawyers, ensuring quality and compliance.
7. Reviewing Cabinet reports, policy development, and service transformation proposals relating to children’s services.
About You
8. You will be a qualified solicitor, barrister with rights to conduct litigation, or hold a CILEX professional qualification with litigation rights and be registered with the relevant professional body.
9. Extensive experience in children social care litigation, including advocacy.
10. Strong leadership and supervisory skills are important.
11. Excellent communication and influencing skills, both written and verbal.
12. Ability to manage complex caseloads and provide strategic advice.
13. Committed to equality, professionalism, and the values of Devon County Council.
Why Devon?
At Devon County Council, you’ll find more than just a job – you’ll discover a career with purpose. We offer:
14. Structured Development
Comprehensive training and supervision to help you meet professional qualifications and progress with confidence.
15. Opportunities to Grow
Build expertise in Children’s social care law, with clear pathways for professional development.
16. A Council with Purpose
Be part of an organisation committed to creating a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Devon, guided by our Strategic Plan priorities.
17. Inclusive and Collaborative Culture
Work in a team that values diversity, innovation, and collaboration, where your contribution truly matters.