Salary range: £39,862 - £44,075
Employer Pension contribution £8,692 - £9,608
Total (Salary + Pension) £48,554 - £53,683
Relocation packages are available for exceptional candidates out of area.
As a full-time permanent employee, you’ll also enjoy 26 days of annual leave plus public and bank holidays, with your entitlement increasing to 31 days after five years’ continuous service. Additional leave purchase options and flexible working arrangements are also available.
Are you a qualified legal professional ready to take the next step in your career and deepen your expertise in childcare law? Devon County Council is seeking a Senior Assistant Lawyer to join our Legal Services team, working on complex and rewarding cases that safeguard and promote the welfare of children and families within a supportive and forward-thinking local authority.
About the Role
As a Senior Assistant Lawyer in Childcare, you will play a vital role in safeguarding children and supporting families through complex legal processes. Working within the framework of the Children Act 1989 and related legislation, you will provide legal advice and representation to ensure the welfare of children is prioritised in all decisions.
You will work under the supervision and guidance of senior lawyers and collaborate closely with social workers and other professionals. Your responsibilities will include:
1. Drafting, negotiating, and settling applications, orders, and other documentation for care proceedings, adoption, and child protection cases.
2. Advising officers and departments on childcare law, safeguarding, and statutory requirements.
3. Conducting litigation, including preparing pleadings, taking witness statements, attending hearings, and instructing counsel when required.
4. Supporting senior team members on complex cases and Public Law Outline (PLO) processes.
5. Liaising with counsel, third-party solicitors, and other representatives as necessary.
6. Building strong working relationships across the Council and partner agencies.
About You
7. Qualified solicitor, barrister with rights to conduct litigation, or a CILEX professional qualification with litigation rights and are registered with the relevant professional body.
8. Experienced in childcare law.
9. Excellent communicators, both written and verbal, with strong organisational and prioritisation skills.
10. Competent in using Microsoft Office and case management systems, including effective time recording.
11. Able to manage their own caseload, work to deadlines, and develop creative solutions quickly.
12. 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:
13. Structured Development
Comprehensive training and supervision to help you meet professional qualifications and progress with confidence.
14. Opportunities to Grow
Build expertise in childcare law and advocacy, with clear pathways for professional development.
15. 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.
16. Inclusive and Collaborative Culture
Work in a team that values diversity, innovation, and collaboration, where your contribution truly matters.
17. Impact That Counts
Make a real difference to communities across Devon through meaningful legal work that shapes lives and services.