Principal Advocate - Childcare Solicitor

At Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, we are committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of our children and families. Our vibrant community thrives on strong support systems, inclusive policies, and dedicated service. Join us in making a significant impact in the lives of our youngest residents and their families.

Why we need you

Our community’s future hinges on the safety and wellbeing of our children. Your expertise in childcare law and advocacy will be the cornerstone of our efforts to protect vulnerable children and uphold their rights in Family Courts. Without your leadership and dedication, our ability to provide essential legal support and achieve favorable outcomes for our children would be significantly hindered. Your role is crucial in ensuring that every child in our community has a safe and nurturing environment to grow and thrive.

Here’s what you’ll be doing

As the Principal Advocate - Childcare Solicitor, you will lead on all aspects of advocacy legal work relating to childcare matters in the Family Courts. Your role will involve providing expert legal advice, representing the Council in complex cases, and acting as in-house counsel.

Leading advocacy in Family Court proceedings, including contested and final hearings.
Managing a varied caseload of complex childcare matters such as abuse, non-accidental injuries, and child deaths.
Advising client departments on intricate issues concerning Childcare Law.
Attending and advising committees, bodies, or panels as required.

You need these qualifications

You are a qualified Solicitor or Barrister with significant experience in childcare law.
You have a proven track record in advocacy, particularly in the Family Courts.
You have managed complex legal cases involving child protection and welfare.

It would be nice if

You have previous experience working within a Local Authority.
You are skilled in mediation and arbitration processes.
You bring innovative solutions to complex legal challenges.

Rewarding you

Salary of £52,571 - £55,800
Hybrid working arrangements
Flexible working hours to support a healthy work-life balance.
Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
Award-winning employee benefits scheme.
31 days annual leave, rising to 36 days after five years of continuous service.
Option to buy an additional 10 days of annual leave per annum.

Apply today

To apply for this role, please click the link below. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the role prior to applying, please reach out to our recruitment partners Tom Ripley or Nik Stoate at Venn Group. Join us in making a difference in the lives of our community's children and families.