Principal Lawyer – Childcare

Devon County Council; Devon and Torbay; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking a Principal Lawyer in Childcare Law to lead a skilled team focused on safeguarding children and managing complex legal proceedings. The ideal candidate must be a qualified solicitor or barrister with extensive experience in childcare law, capable of strategic leadership and court representation. This role offers a competitive salary and generous benefits within an organization committed to public service and transformation.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Generous annual leave

Comprehensive benefits package

Substantial employer pension contribution

Market supplement

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading and managing a team in childcare law.
• Experience in high-pressure court representation.
• Ability to provide clear and persuasive legal advice.

Responsibilities

• Lead a legal team dedicated to safeguarding children through complex processes.
• Manage high-profile childcare law cases and represent the Council in legal meetings.
• Shape policies and compliance frameworks for child welfare.

Skills

Significant knowledge in local government childcare law

Judicial review knowledge

Collaboration and leadership

Excellent communication skills

Education

Solicitor, barrister with rights to conduct litigation, or CILEX lawyer

Job description

Principal Lawyer – Childcare

Grade L8 Starting Salary £65,248

Employer Pension £14,220

Market Supplement £6,991.80

Total Reward £86,459

Relocation packages are available for exceptional candidates out of area.

Shape the Future of Local Government Legal Services

Devon County Council is embarking on an exciting transformation as part of Local Government Reorganisation. Our vision is to create a modern, efficient, and locally focused authority that delivers better services, stronger leadership, and greater value for money. This is your opportunity to join a forward‑thinking council at the heart of a thriving South West region, where your expertise will help shape the future of legal services and local government.

About the Role

As Principal Lawyer in Childcare Law at Devon County Council, you will lead a highly skilled legal team dedicated to safeguarding children and supporting families through complex legal processes. This senior role involves managing the most difficult and high‑profile cases relating to all aspects of childcare law including care proceedings, child protection and judicial reviews.

You will be responsible for planning, leading and managing the childcare team of lawyers and support staff and representing the Council at meetings with the judiciary, while driving strategic and operational leadership across the team. Working closely with social workers and other professionals, you’ll help shape policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks that protect children’s rights and ensure their welfare is prioritised in all decisions.

About You

You’ll be an experienced solicitor, barrister with rights to conduct litigation or CILEX lawyer with litigation rights, with a proven track record leading and managing a team of staff, significant experience in childcare law and in driving improvement in the childrens services arena. You thrive in high‑pressure environments and can confidently represent the Council in court or tribunals. Your ability to provide clear, persuasive advice and deliver strategic solutions will set you apart.

• Expertise: Significant knowledge in local government childcare law and judicial review, knowledge of adult social care law is also desirable but not essential.
• Collaboration: A leader who builds strong relationships across services, influencing outcomes and supporting colleagues to develop robust legal approaches.
• Values: Committed to public service, safeguarding vulnerable people, and contributing to efficient, cost‑effective legal solutions that make a real difference to the citizens of Devon.
• Personal Attributes: Resilient, proactive, and adaptable, with excellent communication skills and a passion for continuous improvement.

Why Join Devon County Council?

Joining Devon County Council means becoming part of a forward‑thinking organisation committed to transformation, excellence, and public service. You will:

• Shape the future of local government and legal services during a time of significant change.
• Work on cases that matter, with strategic impact across the county and beyond.
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements, generous leave, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package—including a substantial employer pension contribution and market supplement.
• Be part of a team that values inclusion, collaboration, and professional development, offering opportunities to lead, innovate, and make a real difference.
• Benefit from a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and knowledge transfer.

Devon County Council Strategic Plan 2025–2029

Everything we do is guided by our vision for a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Devon.

Our six strategic priorities are:

• Positive futures for our young people
• Supporting independence and dignity
• Continuous improvement of services
• A green Devon for future generations
• Economic inclusion and local prosperity
• Stronger communities and safer places.

Find out more about our strategic priorities at Devon County Council's Strategic Plan 2025-2029.

For an informal discussion please contact Andrew Yendole [e-mail].

Closing date: 25 January 2026