Lawyer / Solicitor (Childcare)

Are you looking for a role where your legal expertise has a genuine impact? Do you want to be part of a supportive, collaborative team that is passionate about safeguarding vulnerable children? We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Lawyer / Solicitor specialising in Children's Services to join our well-regarded Legal Services team. This is a fantastic opportunity to undertake meaningful, high-impact work while developing your career in a progressive and supportive local authority environment. The Role You will manage a varied caseload of child protection and public law matters, providing expert legal advice to officers and members and representing the Council in court proceedings. You will play a key role in delivering high-quality, efficient, and responsive legal support, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, Council policies, and best practice. Key duties include:

• Providing clear, high-quality legal advice on Children's Social Care matters
• Managing your own caseload within a supportive team environment
• Advocacy and representing the Council at court hearings, tribunals, and related proceedings
• Working closely with social care professionals and external partners
• Contributing to policy development and service improvement initiatives
• Keeping up to date with legal developments and ensuring best practice is followed, Please note that we're unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role, so candidates will need to have an existing right to work in the UK.
Important Applicant Guidance Accuracy and Use of AI Tools: You must ensure that anything submitted in your application is factually accurate. Plagiarism can include presenting the ideas and experience of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own. Whilst we accept candidates may use AI tools within job applications; submissions must be truthful and relevant to your own experience. Application Updates and Communication: All updates regarding your application, including interview invitations, will be sent from 'DONOTREPLY@NORTHEASTJOBS.ORG.UK' to the email linked to your North East Jobs account, and will also appear in the 'My Messages' section of your account. Right to Work: All applicants must provide valid proof of their right to work in the UK in accordance with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's statutory employment checks. Employment cannot commence or continue unless this has been verified. Council Principles: The Council's recruitment principles require fairness, transparency, and a commitment to attracting and developing local talent Limitations: Where an individual cannot demonstrate a valid right to work in the UK the Council will be unable to progress or continue the appointment. This includes cases where an existing employee's visa is due to expire and sponsorship is not granted. Supporting documents 12. Employee Benefits Leaflet.pdf (193.29 KB) SBC Values and Behaviours Statement - 2025.pdf (330.4 KB) Lawyer Solicitor (Childcare) - JD, PS & KR.pdf (473.19 KB)

We're looking for individuals who are committed, driven, and passionate about making a difference.,
• Qualified Solicitors, Barristers, or FCILEX professionals with rights of audience
• Part-qualified or aspiring lawyers seeking a structured and supportive development pathway
• Candidates with a strong interest in child protection law and safeguarding
• Individuals who are collaborative, proactive, and committed to public service
To maintain a skills balance within the team, appointments are expected to be made at Grade L/M within the career grade.

Why Join Us? Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council prides itself on being a great place to work where staff are trusted, valued and supported to make a positive contribution at work.
• A competitive salary of up to £50,269
• 27 days annual leave per year rising to 32 with 5 years service (plus bank holidays). Ability to purchase additional leave is also available.
• Generous Pension Scheme through the LGPS with ability to pay extra and plan for retirement.
• Access to a number of other employee benefits including learning & development opportunities, a car lease scheme, discounts at high street and online retailers, access to online GP appointments, an employee assistance programme and physiotherapy services.
And that's not all - you can also work flexibly where you can work part of your week at home.