Senior Childcare Advocate

A highly regarded London Borough Council is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Childcare Advocate to join its in-house Legal Services team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Childcare Advocate to manage a varied caseload of complex public law childcare matters whilst acting as a trusted legal adviser to Children's Services.

The Role You'll be responsible for:

• Managing a complex caseload of public law childcare proceedings from pre-proceedings through to final hearings.
• Advocating on behalf of the Council in the Family Court, including contested hearings where appropriate.
• Advising Children's Services, senior officers and elected members on childcare and safeguarding matters.
• Drafting pleadings, witness statements and legal documentation.
• Supporting and mentoring junior lawyers and contributing to the development of the legal team.

About You The successful candidate will have:

• A current practising certificate as a Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive (or equivalent).
• Significant experience handling public law childcare matters on behalf of a local authority.
• Strong advocacy experience within the Family Court.
• Excellent knowledge of the Children Act 1989 and associated legislation.
• The ability to manage a busy and complex caseload whilst building strong relationships with internal stakeholders.