Solicitor – Childcare / Public Law – Exeter – 2+ Years PQE

Overview

In this role you will manage a varied caseload in childcare and public law within a growing Family team. You will support vulnerable clients, handle legally aided matters, and advocate in the Family Court, contributing to the Exeter office’s childcare offering. The position offers close collaboration with an experienced specialist and opportunities to shape the firm’s childcare practice. You will work with cross-functional teams to ensure compliant, high-quality outcomes and engage in dispute resolution where appropriate.

Pay / Benefits

• Company pension
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Company events
• Referral programme

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of childcare and public law matters
• Act for parents, guardians and children in care and supervision proceedings
• Handle emergency protection orders, adoptions, and pre-proceedings work
• Manage legally aided cases and ensure LAA compliance
• Provide sensitive, clear advice to vulnerable clients
• Conduct advocacy in the Family Court and liaise with Counsel
• Draft statements, care plans, applications and other court documents
• Manage disclosure, instruct experts and liaise with Children’s Guardians and local authorities
• Attend hearings, case management conferences and directions hearings
• Maintain accurate case records in the firm’s case management system
• Ensure compliance with statutory obligations, LAA regulations and risk management guidelines
• Engage in dispute resolution, mediation and settlement discussions

Key requirements

• 2+ years’ PQE in public family law or care proceedings
• Strong knowledge of the Children Act 1989 and public law processes
• Experience working on legally aided matters
• Confidence conducting advocacy in the Family Court
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to support vulnerable clients
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage a busy caseload
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within a supportive team

• interpersonal skills
• organisational skills
• communication skills
• advocacy in Family Court
• case management and documentation
• Legal Aid Agency (LAA) compliance

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