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Lawyer - Adults Services

Salary: £52718 - £55710 per annum
Location: Widnes

 

Lawyer - Children's Services
Location: Halton, Cheshire
Pay: Up to £28.96 per hour
Contract: Initial 6-month contract with potential to become permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week

Make a Difference in Children's Lives Through Legal Excellence
Halton Borough Council is a progressive and ambitious authority with a strong commitment to its communities. Located in Cheshire with excellent transport links, we offer a supportive working environment where legal professionals can thrive and directly contribute to positive outcomes for vulnerable children and families.

We are now seeking a dedicated and experienced Lawyer - Children's Services to join our Legal Services Directorate. This is a vital role where your legal expertise will help safeguard and protect children across the borough.

About the Role
As a key member of the Legal Services team, you will provide high-quality legal and procedural advice across the full range of children's social care matters. From pre-proceedings and public law care applications to complex safeguarding issues and advocacy in family courts, this role is both challenging and rewarding.

Key Responsibilities

  • Undertake advocacy and litigation in family proceedings to represent the Council's interests

  • Advise on all aspects of children's social care law, including pre-proceedings, care applications, adoption, and Special Guardianship Orders

  • Support and advise social workers and senior officers on legal and procedural matters

  • Draft complex legal documents and prepare cases for court

  • Deliver legal advice to Council Boards, Panels, Committees, and Officers to support effective decision-making

  • Keep up to date with developments in child law and assess implications for Council services

  • Deliver training and guidance to internal stakeholders to enhance legal understanding and practice

  • Collaborate closely with Children's Services, external partners, and courts to achieve the best outcomes for children

  • Maintain compliance with Legal Services' Practice Standards and contribute to service improvement initiatives

About You
You will hold a recognised legal qualification as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive, and ideally have:

  • Experience in children's social care law, preferably within a local authority or public sector setting

  • Strong knowledge of the Children Act 1989, associated legislation, case law, and public law proceedings

  • Excellent advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills

  • The ability to work under pressure, manage deadlines, and deliver pragmatic legal solutions

  • A proactive, team-oriented approach with a focus on client service

  • Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent (e.g. G Suite, Mosaic)

  • A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for travel within and outside the borough (reasonable adjustments available)

Why Halton?
Halton is known for its collaborative and supportive culture. Within our Legal Services Directorate, you'll join a knowledgeable and experienced team committed to achieving the best outcomes for children. You'll have the opportunity to grow professionally, influence decision-making, and be part of a service that truly makes a difference.

Connect2Halton is a trading style of Halton & Kent Commercial Services LLP- A joint venture between Halton Borough Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Halton is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.