Job Overview:
North Yorkshire Council is seeking an experienced Childcare Lawyer (Solicitor) to join its legal team on an interim basis for approximately 6 months. This role is essential in supporting the Children and Young People Services Directorate by delivering high-quality legal advice and representation in care proceedings and family law matters.
This role is hybrid, with a requirement to attend County Hall, Northallerton on Mondays. The remaining four days can be worked remotely. The postholder will primarily support services within the Harrogate area, so local candidates or those willing to commute are strongly preferred.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide expert legal advice and representation on matters relating to children's social care, including care proceedings and family law.
Manage and respond to legal queries from the Children and Young People Services Directorate.
Conduct detailed legal research and offer insight on complex legal matters that affect service delivery.
Collaborate with colleagues across the legal team to ensure compliance with Law Society Professional Standards and Lexcel accreditation requirements.
Draft legal documentation and attend relevant court proceedings as required.
Ensure advice is delivered with clarity and aligned with current legal frameworks and best practices.
Essential Requirements:
A current practising certificate (please do not submit candidates who are not qualified).
Demonstrable experience in children's law, including public law care proceedings and family law matters.
Strong legal research and analysis skills.
The ability to provide concise, clear, and pragmatic legal advice on complex matters.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Candidate Location:
Candidates based in North Yorkshire or surrounding areas are preferred due to the requirement to attend County Hall in Northallerton once a week and familiarity with the Harrogate area