My client is a legal 500 law firm on the lookout for a Child Panel Solicitor to join their highly regarded firm in South East London
Key Responsibilities:
1. Representing Children in Care Proceedings:
* Provide legal representation for children in care proceedings, ensuring their rights and interests are effectively advocated in court.
1. Advising on Care and Child Protection Matters:
* Offer expert legal advice to children, guardians, and families on issues related to care proceedings, child protection, and family law matters.
1. Conducting Advocacy:
* Act as an advocate in court, presenting cases, cross-examining witnesses, and making submissions on behalf of the child or their guardian.
1. Case Management:
* Manage a caseload of complex and sensitive care proceedings, ensuring timely and thorough preparation for each case, including gathering evidence, drafting documents, and liaising with other professionals.
1. Client Care and Communication:
* Maintain high standards of client care, ensuring clear, empathetic, and effective communication with children, their families, and other professionals involved in the case.
1. Collaborating with Multidisciplinary Teams:
* Work closely with social workers, guardians, medical experts, and other professionals to gather information, provide legal guidance, and develop case strategies.
1. Legal Aid Management:
* Ensure compliance with legal aid regulations and manage the financial aspects of cases, including applying for and justifying legal aid funding where necessary.
1. Court Documentation and Reporting:
* Draft and review court documents, including statements, orders, and reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal standards.
1. Training and Development:
* Participate in ongoing professional development, including training sessions, seminars, and workshops, to enhance legal knowledge and advocacy skills.
The Ideal Candidate:
* An experienced Childcare Solicitor (must be Child Panel accredited)
* Proficient in advising families on Care proceedings and legally aided matters
* Experience with complex cases involving medical issues is advantageous
* Prior experience in representing children in care proceedings
* Possesses excellent client care and communication skills
Benefits:
* Bonus scheme
* Flexible/ hybrid working
* Training/ development