My client is a legal 500 law firm on the lookout for a Child Panel Solicitor to join their highly regarded firm in South East London.
Key Responsibilities
- Representing Children in Care Proceedings: Provide legal representation for children in care proceedings, ensuring their rights and interests are effectively advocated in court.
- Advising on Care and Child Protection Matters: Offer expert legal advice to children, guardians, and families on issues related to care proceedings, child protection, and family law matters.
- Conducting Advocacy: Act as an advocate in court, presenting cases, cross-examining witnesses, and making submissions on behalf of the child or their guardian.
- Case Management: Manage a caseload of complex and sensitive care proceedings, ensuring timely and thorough preparation for each case, including gathering evidence, drafting documents, and liaising with other professionals.
- Client Care and Communication: Maintain high standards of client care, ensuring clear, empathetic, and effective communication with children, their families, and other professionals involved in the case.
- Collaborating with Multidisciplinary Teams: Work closely with social workers, guardians, medical experts, and other professionals to gather information, provide legal guidance, and develop case strategies.
- Legal Aid Management: Ensure compliance with legal aid regulations and manage the financial aspects of cases, including applying for and justifying legal aid funding where necessary.
- Court Documentation and Reporting: Draft and review court documents, including statements, orders, and reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal standards.
- Training and Development: Participate in ongoing professional development, including training sessions, seminars, and workshops, to enhance legal knowledge and advocacy skills.
The Ideal Candidate
- An experienced Childcare Solicitor (must be Child Panel accredited)
- Proficient in advising families on care proceedings and legally aided matters
- Experience with complex cases involving medical issues is advantageous
- Prior experience in representing children in care proceedings
- Possesses excellent client care and communication skills
Benefits
- Bonus scheme
- Flexible/hybrid working
- Training/development