Senior Childcare Lawyer

Service Care Legal are working with a well-regarded Local Authority in Essex is seeking an experienced Senior Childcare Solicitor to join their busy and supportive legal team on a locum basis. This is an excellent opportunity to handle a varied and rewarding caseload while maintaining a flexible hybrid working pattern.

ROLE:                  Senior Childcare Solicitor
LOCATION:         Essex (Local Authority)
RATE:                   £55ph umbrella / £48.46ph PAYE inc. holiday pay / £43.24ph PAYE exc. holiday pay
CONTRACT:        37 hours per week, 3 months rolling contract

Hybrid Working – 2 days office attendance. Please note that advocacy is required (approx. 1 day per week).

The Role
 

• Manage a full caseload of care and adoption proceedings, including complex and High Court matters where required.
• Draft key legal documentation under the Children Act 1989, including threshold statements, orders, and case summaries.
• Undertake regular advocacy at Chelmsford Family Court (approximately once per week).
• Advise on a broad range of childcare matters including DOL, secure accommodation, and international elements, while supporting junior team members.

Person Specification
 

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Executive with a current practising certificate in England & Wales.
• Experience within childcare law/public sector, with strong knowledge of relevant legislation and court procedures.
• Ability to manage a complex caseload independently, with excellent communication and organisational skills.

Should this be an opportunity of interest, please feel free to reach out to Lloyd Stanley on 01772 208969 or email across an updated CV to Lloyd.stanley@servicecare.org.uk. We welcome referrals which could be worth £500 each so please also bear this in mind.