In House Advocate (Development Role)

Old Moat; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in Manchester is seeking a qualified Barrister, Solicitor, or Chartered Legal Executive to provide legal representation in children's law matters. This permanent role requires flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Benefits include generous holiday allowance, pension scheme, learning opportunities, and a supportive environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of local government law and be able to present key legal arguments effectively.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Local government pension

Enhanced parental leave

Health perks

Learning opportunities

Qualifications

• Qualified Barrister, Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate required.
• Commitment to continuous self-development and flexible working.

Responsibilities

• Formulate and present legal arguments to the Courts.
• Work independently and take initiative in a team environment.

Skills

Proactive approach to problem-solving

Good working knowledge of local government law

Ability to present legal arguments

Education

Barrister, Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate

Job description

About The Role

Working Hours: 35 hour per week
Contract type: Permanent
Closing date: 11.59pm, 9 November 2025

• Interview method: in person
• Application: CV and detailed Expression of Interest setting out how your skills and experience meet the role profile

• This role is subject to:
  • Qualification - Barrister, Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate
  • DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance - this post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (amended in 2013). Appointable candidates will be required to apply for a Standard/ an Enhanced DBS check. Information provided by you or the DBS will be dealt with in a confidential manner and in accordance with the DBS Code of Practice which can be viewed here. We have a policy on the Employment of Offenders and it is available upon request.

This position may be subject to TUPE Transfer to Rochdale Borough Council

The successful candidate will demonstrate a good working knowledge of children’s public and private law alongside local government law, and will be able to formulate and present quality legal argument to the Courts, both orally and in writing, within hearings of varying lengths and complexity. You will have extensive knowledge of the law relating to children and families and show commitment to continuous self-development.

You will be a qualified Barrister, Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate, able and committed to working flexibly, including outside normal office hours when required. You will be a key member of the group, confident and able to work independently and on your own initiative.

Why work with us?

We offer flexible start and finish times with a hybrid working-practice model. There are opportunities for development and variety through our Lexcel-accredited and supported legal service. This role involves legal work for public services in Manchester, Salford and Rochdale Councils and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

If you would like an informal discussion, please contact Alison Robertson, Head of In House Advocacy Services by email at [e-mail]

About the Candidate

We are looking for individuals with initiative, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a real commitment to the job. You will work within a friendly, welcoming and supportive team environment where your professional development will be nurtured and appreciated.

The successful candidate will have good working knowledge of local government law, and the ability to formulate and present quality legal argument to the Courts, both orally and in writing. You will have knowledge of the law relating to children and families and evidence of continuous self-development. You will be a qualified Barrister, Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Advocacy Certificate, able to work flexibly including outside normal hours, and you will work independently and take initiative.

About Us

We’re the local council for one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities.

Working for Manchester is not just a job – it’s an opportunity to contribute to a city that leads change and transforms lives. You’ll play a vital role in creating opportunities and shaping a brighter future for everyone.

Our Manchester is our vision for a fairer, greener, and healthier city. This vision guides everything we do at the Council and is brought to life through the Our Manchester behaviours.

• We take time to listen and understand
• We work together and trust each other
• We value differences and treat each other fairly
• We own it and are not afraid to try new things
• We’re proud and passionate about Manchester

Benefits we offer

• Generous holiday allowance: Up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 31 days after five years of local government service. Up to two additional weeks can be purchased.
• A buzzing pension: Enrolled in the UK’s largest local government pension scheme, with life cover of three-times salary as a lump sum.
• Enhanced parental and carers leave: Enhanced family leave options to provide time for family needs.
• Perks: Discounts through MCR+ and other benefits including phone contracts, cycle to work, and health perks.
• Learn and grow: Learning opportunities, onboarding, workshops, training, apprenticeships and qualifications.
• Good Employment Charter member: Secure, flexible work, annual pay review, recognition of unions, and wellbeing support.
• Up to 3 days volunteering leave: Pro-rata paid volunteering leave.

Creating an Inclusive Team at Manchester City Council

We are committed to a diverse workforce and actively welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, Disabled people and young people.

Support During the Process

• Interview Adjustments: Let us know if you need any adjustments to demonstrate your suitability during the interview.
• Accessible Formats: Our ReciteMe tool can be accessed via the Accessibility button on our careers page. The tool offers text-to-speech, translation, adjustable text size and colour.

Pre-Employment Checks

If successful, checks may include Right to Work, References, Proof of Qualifications, DBS Check, BPSS, Police Vetting, Driving Licence, and proof of Manchester residency where applicable. These checks are part of our commitment to safety and security.

Other relevant information

We aim to support all employees to be themselves at work and will source aids, adaptations or equipment as needed. If a duty cannot be performed, we will look at role redesign.

For more information about the role, read the role profile attached. You can also calculate your take-home pay or view the Privacy Notice via the links on the page.