Locum Childcare Solicitors

Brandon James Ltd; London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

An established high street law firm in North London seeks a Locum Childcare Solicitor to provide interim support in their family department. The role requires a qualified solicitor with minimum 3 years’ PQE in childcare/public law, to manage a diverse caseload including care proceedings and child protection matters. The position offers £30 – £45 per hour on a self-employed basis, with an immediate start and potential for extension.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor with current practicing certificate.
• Minimum 3 years' PQE preferably in childcare/public law.
• Desirable membership of the Law Society’s Children Panel.

Responsibilities

• Manage a full public law caseload including care and supervision orders.
• Attend court hearings and represent clients.
• Prepare legal documentation and ensure high client care standards.

Skills

Independently managing cases

Advocacy

Knowledge of legal aid processes

Education

Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales

3 years’ PQE in childcare/public law

Job description

An established high street law firm based in North London is seeking a Locum Childcare Solicitor to provide interim support to their busy family department. This is an office-based role ideal for a qualified solicitor with strong experience in public law children matters. The successful Locum Childcare Solicitor will be joining a supportive team and handling a varied caseload of care proceedings and child protection matters.

The position is available for an immediate start and is expected to run for at least 3 months, with the possibility of extension. As a Locum Childcare Solicitor, you will be stepping into an active caseload, so previous experience working as a Locum Childcare Solicitor or in a similar capacity is essential. You will be confident in managing your files independently and attending court as required.

The Locum Childcare Solicitor’s role

The Locum Childcare Solicitor will handle a full public law caseload, including care and supervision orders, emergency protection orders, and placement applications. You will represent parents, guardians, and children, regularly liaising with local authorities, Cafcass officers, and other professionals. Advocacy is an integral part of the role, so experience in attending court hearings is essential.

The successful Locum Childcare Solicitor will be expected to manage their own caseload with minimal supervision, prepare legal documentation, and maintain excellent client care standards throughout. You will also be required to work closely with other members of the family department to ensure the continued smooth running of the team.

The Locum Childcare Solicitor

• Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales with a current practising certificate

• Minimum 3 years’ PQE in childcare/public law

• Membership of the Law Society’s Children Panel is desirable but not essential

• Strong knowledge of legal aid processes and LAA requirements

• Confident with advocacy and managing cases independently

• Able to start at short notice and commit for a minimum of 3 months

In Return?

• £30 – £45 per hour (DOE), paid on a self-employed basis

• Office-based role in a well-established North London practice

• Collegiate and experienced team

• Immediate start available

• Potential for extension

Keywords: Locum Childcare Solicitor | Family Law | Public Law Children | North London Solicitor | Care Proceedings | Child Protection