Lawyer (Children & Families Legal Service)

Overview

In this public sector role you will handle a varied Children & Families caseload, advising on safeguarding, information sharing and local authority duties. You join a high-profile legal team supporting Manchester and Salford City Councils, with a focus on children’s services and education records. You will represent the Council in Family Courts and work closely with social workers and partners to improve outcomes for children and families. This role offers meaningful, impact-driven work within a collaborative, innovative public service environment. You will help shape legal services through training, guidance and ongoing service development.

Pay / Benefits

• salary £43,149-£47,665 (bar at 46,579)
• flexible and hybrid working
• high-quality supervision and career development opportunities
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• excellent annual leave entitlement
• supportive and collaborative culture

Responsibilities

• Conduct a broad range of Children Act casework with increasing autonomy.
• Advise on safeguarding responsibilities and local authority duties towards children and families.
• Manage information sharing and disclosure matters.
• Undertake advocacy before the Family Courts on behalf of the Council.
• Collaborate with social workers, senior officers and partner agencies.
• Deliver training and legal guidance to clients and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the ongoing development of an award-winning legal service.

Key requirements

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or CILEX Fellow (with relevant advocacy rights where applicable)
• Knowledge of children and families law
• Understanding of local government law or a desire to develop expertise in this area
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to public service and improving outcomes for children and families
• Experience in private practice, local government, legal aid or children’s panel work encouraged

• Strong communication
• Relationship-building
• Ability to manage competing priorities
• Knowledge of children and families law
• Advocacy across Family Courts
• Information sharing and disclosure

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