Solicitor - Special Educational Needs

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Special Educational Needs Solicitor to join my clients team in their Reading, Berkshire offices on a hybrid basis. Reporting to the Special Educational Needs Partner, you will manage your own caseload of SEN matters while also supporting the wider team on more complex cases. The role involves working closely with families, schools, local authorities, experts and Tribunals to provide high quality legal advice and representation across a broad range of Special Educational Needs matters. Role & Responsibilities:

• Manage a caseload of Special Educational Needs matters including SEND Tribunal appeals
• Deal with new enquiries and provide initial legal guidance to prospective clients
• Advise clients on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), appeals and related SEN issues
• Draft Grounds of Appeal, witness statements and other legal documentation
• Prepare appeal bundles and supporting evidence for Tribunal proceedings
• Proof EHCPs and prepare Working Documents
• Liaise with clients, local authorities, schools, experts and the SEND Tribunal
• Instruct and liaise with experts, including arranging assessments and managing expert evidence
• Request and review SAR records from schools and local authorities
• Draft correspondence to clients, schools, local authorities and experts
• Prepare schedules of documents for appeals and expert review
• Manage client finances, costs budgets and expert fees
• Assist with marketing initiatives and events to help promote Boyes Turner as a brand
• Write articles and legal updates for the company website
• Support and mentor junior team members where appropriate
• Undertake legal research as required
• Ensure all work is maintained at a high level of quality to promote the reputation of the firm
  
  Qualified Solicitor with experience in Special Educational Needs law
• Experience managing SEN matters including SEND Tribunal appeals
• Strong drafting and advocacy preparation skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong client care and relationship management skills
• Good interpersonal and organisational skills
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Strong IT skills with good knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast paced environment