Lawyer - Adults Services

Connect2Halton; Widnes; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A local authority's legal service is seeking an experienced Lawyer for Children's Services to provide high-quality legal advice and advocacy in matters affecting children. You will work closely with social workers and legal teams to ensure best outcomes, maintaining compliance within legal standards. Candidates should have a recognized legal qualification and a strong background in children's social care law. This role offers competitive pay and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Qualifications

• Experience in children's social care law, preferably within a local authority.
• Strong knowledge of the Children Act 1989 and associated legislation.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Undertake advocacy and litigation in family proceedings.
• Advise on all aspects of children's social care law.
• Draft complex legal documents and prepare cases for court.
• Deliver training and guidance to internal stakeholders.

Skills

Excellent advocacy

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Strong IT skills

Education

Recognised legal qualification (Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive)

Tools

Microsoft Office

G Suite

Mosaic

Job description

Job Description

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.