Job Title: Adults Litigation Solicitor
Location: Dorchester
Contract Type: Temporary (6 months- starting May)
Salary: £65-70 per hour (DOE)
About Us
Connect2Dorset is a managed service agency owned by Dorset Council providing temporary, contract, and interim opportunities into the Council. Our service is built on our values of being ethical, trustworthy, and caring, with profits returned to our Local Authority shareholders.
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Locum Adults Litigation Solicitor to join Dorset Council's Legal Services team on a temporary 6-month basis.
This role requires an experienced Adult Social Care lawyer with some management experience, capable of handling a complex and busy caseload while supporting the wider team.
Key Responsibilities:
Manage a busy caseload of adult social care litigation matters.
Handle Court of Protection cases, including Section 21A and welfare applications.
Provide clear, written legal advice on a variety of matters including:
Care Act
Mental Capacity Act
Section 117 Mental Health Act
Provide legal advice to internal stakeholders across the Council.
Draft legal documentation and undertake advocacy where required.
Liaise with external counsel and other relevant bodies.
Support and contribute to team management where appropriate.
Keep up to date with relevant legislation and provide training or updates to colleagues as necessary. Qualifications and Skills:
Essential:
Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Executive.
Significant experience in Adult Social Care law.
Experience handling Court of Protection matters (including s21A and welfare).
Strong litigation experience, ideally within a local authority context.
Experience providing advice on the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and s117 Mental Health Act.
Some management or supervisory experience.
Excellent advocacy, communication, and drafting skills.
Ability to manage a busy caseload with minimal supervision.
Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills.Desirable:
Prior experience in local government law.
Familiarity with Local Authority procedures and governance.Additional Information:
Hybrid working arrangement
Monday to Friday
Up to 37 hours per week
Connect2Dorset is a trading style of Dorset & Kent Commercial Services LLP - A joint venture between Dorset Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Dorset is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates