Lawyer - Childcare

Devon County Council; Devon and Torbay; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Devon is seeking a motivated Lawyer to join its Childcare Legal Services team. This role involves providing high-quality legal advice and representation in childcare law, managing cases for court, and collaborating with social care teams. The ideal candidate will be a qualified solicitor or barrister with relevant experience and exceptional communication skills. Competitive salary range and opportunities for professional development are offered.

Benefits

26 days annual leave

Flexible working arrangements

Comprehensive training and supervision

Pension contribution

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor, barrister with litigation rights, or a CILEX professional qualification.
• Experience in childcare law is essential.
• Excellent communication and strong organisational skills required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver legal advice on childcare law and care proceedings.
• Prepare and manage cases for court in compliance with deadlines.
• Represent the Council in family courts.

Skills

Childcare law expertise

Excellent written communication

Effective verbal communication

Organisational skills

Time management

Education

Qualified solicitor or barrister

CILEX professional qualification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Case management systems

Job description

Salary range: £45,091 - £49,282

Employer pension contribution: £9,829 - £10,743

Total (Salary + Pension): £54,921 - £60,025

Relocation packages are available for exceptional candidates out of area.

As a full-time permanent employee you’ll also enjoy 26 days of annual leave plus public and bank holidays, with your entitlement increasing to 31 days after five years’ continuous service. Additional leave purchase options and flexible working arrangements are also available.

Join Devon County Council’s Legal Services Team and play an important role in shaping how we deliver childcare across the organisation. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated legal professional to join a specialist team dedicated to protecting children and promoting their welfare.

About the Role

As a Lawyer within our Childcare Legal Services team, you will play a vital role in delivering high‑quality legal advice and representation that underpins these essential services.

You will provide expert advice and advocacy in relation to childcare law, supporting social workers and senior managers in making decisions that have a lasting impact on young lives.

Responsibilities

• Legal Advice: Deliver clear, practical advice on childcare law, care proceedings, and related statutory duties.
• Case Management: Prepare and manage cases for court, ensuring compliance with procedural requirements and deadlines.
• Advocacy: Represent the Council in family courts, safeguarding the best interests of children and the authority.
• Collaboration: Work closely with social care teams, building strong relationships and supporting effective decision‑making.
• Continuous Improvement: Contribute to policy development and best practice within the childcare legal team.

You will join a supportive environment where guidance and mentoring are available to help you develop your expertise and progress your career.

About You

• Qualified solicitor, barrister with rights to conduct litigation, or a CILEX professional qualification with litigation rights and are registered with the relevant professional body.
• Experienced in childcare law.
• Excellent communicators, both written and verbal, with strong organisational and prioritisation skills.
• Competent in using Microsoft Office and case management systems, including effective time recording.
• Able to manage their own caseload, work to deadlines, and develop creative solutions quickly.
• Committed to equality, professionalism, and the values of Devon County Council.

Why Devon?

At Devon County Council you’ll find more than just a job – you’ll discover a career with purpose. We offer:

• Structured Development – Comprehensive training and supervision to help you meet professional qualifications and progress with confidence.
• Opportunities to Grow – Build expertise in childcare law and advocacy, with clear pathways for professional development.
• A Council with Purpose – Be part of an organisation committed to creating a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Devon, guided by our Strategic Plan priorities.
• Inclusive and Collaborative Culture – Work in a team that values diversity, innovation, and collaboration, where your contribution truly matters.
• Impact That Counts – Make a real difference to communities across Devon through meaningful legal work that shapes lives and services.

For an informal discussion please contact Joanne Davies.

How to apply

Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.

Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.

Click Apply Now to see the Job Description.

DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon.

The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work – hybrid working, part‑time, condensed hours, etc.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.

Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the relevant regulations.