SEND Law Counsel: Children's Education (Hybrid)

Cornwall Council; Truro; Hybrid; GBP 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working options

Defined benefit pension

Generous annual leave

Wellbeing programme

Employee discounts

Job summary

Cornwall Council is seeking a solicitor to join our specialist SEND, Education and Children's Services legal team. You will manage a mixed caseload of SEND matters, providing practical legal advice and representation to help ensure fair, lawful decisions for children and families.

The role offers flexible, hybrid working within the UK, a supportive environment and opportunities to develop expertise. You’ll work with council teams, schools and partner agencies and may supervise junior colleagues

Qualifications

• A qualified solicitor (or equivalent) with experience in children’s law, or an interest in developing in this area
• Experience managing a complex caseload
• Strong communication skills
• Good organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
• Collaborative approach and commitment to team working
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on SEND law and related education matters, including EHC assessments, plans, annual reviews and placement decisions
• Represent the Council at SEND Tribunal proceedings, including preparing case statements and advocacy at hearings
• Manage your caseload effectively, ensuring compliance with Tribunal directions, statutory deadlines and Court orders
• Advise on complex and sensitive matters, supporting lawful, fair and robust decision-making
• Build effective working relationships with council teams, schools and partner agencies
• Support the Senior Lawyer in supervising and supporting junior members of the team
• Liaise with support staff to ensure the efficient progression and management of cases
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to shared guidance and best practice

Skills

Children's law

Caseload management

Communication

Teamwork

Deadline-driven

Education

Qualified solicitor (or equivalent)

Job description

Cornwall Council is seeking a solicitor to join our specialist SEND, Education and Children's Services legal team. You will manage a mixed caseload of SEND matters, providing practical legal advice and representation to help ensure fair, lawful decisions for children and families.

The role offers flexible, hybrid working within the UK, a supportive environment and opportunities to develop expertise. You’ll work with council teams, schools and partner agencies and may supervise junior colleagues