Childcare Lawyer – Exeter

Overview

In this role you will join a specialist child law team to handle a diverse caseload in a growing West Country firm with a strong regional reputation. You will work on public and private children matters, advising clients from children to guardians, and represent them in court. The position offers meaningful, impactful work across care proceedings, adoption, and parental disputes, with a collaborative, supportive team culture. This is a chance to shape outcomes in a client-focused practice while contributing to department growth and service quality.

Pay / Benefits

• competitive salary
• attractive benefits package
• clear opportunities for career progression
• supportive, collaborative team
• positive, inclusive working environment

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of public law childcare matters, including care proceedings and adoption work
• Handle private law children cases such as child arrangements and parental responsibility disputes
• Represent clients at court hearings and coordinate with counsel as needed
• Liaise with local authorities, social workers and other professionals involved in proceedings
• Prepare legal documentation including statements, applications and court bundles
• Provide clear, empathetic legal advice to clients in sensitive situations
• Support the wider team and contribute to department growth

Key requirements

• Qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive with experience in child/family law
• Proven ability to manage a childcare caseload independently, particularly in public law
• Strong knowledge of Legal Aid and experience working within its framework
• Confident advocacy skills and experience representing clients in court
• Children Panel membership (or working towards accreditation) is highly desirable
• Excellent communication and IT skills, with a professional and empathetic approach
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities

• empathy
• clear communication
• client care
• Legal Aid knowledge
• advocacy in court
• case documentation and court bundle preparation

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