Adult Social Care Lawyer (Locum)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Adult Social Care Lawyer to join a local authority legal services team on an 8‑month locum assignment. The role involves providing high‑quality legal advice on a varied caseload of adult social care and public law matters, working remotely or in a hybrid model from Manchester.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a full caseload of adult social care matters from instruction to completion.
• Handle Court of Protection welfare proceedings, Mental Capacity Act 2005 issues, Section 21A challenges, DoLS and inherent jurisdiction applications.
• Advise on adult safeguarding, community care, ordinary residence disputes and inquests.
• Provide guidance on duties under the Care Act 2014, including assessments, care planning and best‑interest decisions.
• Support social workers and senior officers with timely legal advice and attend safeguarding and operational meetings.
• Deliver advocacy, including Court of Protection representation, when required.

Required profile

• Demonstrable experience in a local authority adult social care legal team.
• Strong knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, Court of Protection procedures and the Care Act 2014.
• Ability to manage a busy caseload with minimal supervision.
• Confidence working in a fast‑paced public sector environment.

Required skills

• Expertise in adult social care law and public law.
• Proficiency in Court of Protection advocacy.
• Understanding of safeguarding and care planning processes.

What we offer

• Competitive hourly rate of £45‑£55, dependent on experience.
• Remote or hybrid working flexibility.
• Eight‑month locum contract with a respected local authority.
• Opportunity to work on complex, rewarding cases supporting vulnerable adults.