Senior Children & Families Lawyer

About the role

A highly regarded local authority legal team is seeking an experienced Senior Lawyer to join its Children & Families practice on an initial six‑month contract. The role supports critical safeguarding and children’s services functions, offering flexibility with the possibility of remote work for the right candidate.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a complex caseload of public‑law children’s proceedings, including Section 31 matters and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) with related Court of Protection work.
• Provide strategic legal advice to Children’s Services and represent the authority in contested proceedings where appropriate.
• Draft legal documentation, applications and pleadings with a high degree of accuracy.
• Advise on safeguarding responsibilities, legislation and statutory guidance.

Required profile

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister or FCILEX holder with an Advocacy Certificate.
• Proven experience handling complex children and families matters within a local government or public‑sector setting.
• Strong knowledge of public‑law children’s proceedings, safeguarding legislation and related statutory frameworks.
• Ability to manage a busy caseload with minimal supervision and to provide practical, solution‑focused advice.

Required skills

• Legal advocacy and representation.
• Case management and legal drafting.
• Analytical reasoning and interpretation of public‑law statutes.

What we offer

• 35‑hour week on a fixed‑term contract with a high likelihood of extension.
• Supportive environment with dedicated Legal Officers and specialist business support teams.
• Potential for fully remote working for the right candidate.
• Exposure to high‑profile public‑law cases and professional development opportunities.