SEND Lawyer for Children’s Education

Cornwall Council; Truro; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Defined benefit pension

Generous annual leave

Wellbeing programme

Employee discounts

Job summary

Cornwall Council is seeking a SEND lawyer to manage a mixed caseload of education and children's services matters. You will provide clear legal guidance on EHC assessments, plans, reviews and placement decisions, and represent the Council at SEND Tribunals.

You’ll work within a collaborative legal team, supporting junior lawyers, and building strong links with schools, professionals and partner agencies. Hybrid and UK-wide remote options are available.

Qualifications

• A qualified solicitor (or equivalent) with experience in children’s law.
• Experience managing a complex caseload.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain legal issues clearly.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to team working.
• The 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, supporting the Council to meet its statutory duties.
• Represent the Council at SEND Tribunal proceedings, including preparing case statements, working documents, witness evidence, bundles 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, external professionals, legal representatives 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, precedents and best practice.

Skills

Complex caseload management

Strong communication

Organisational skills

Team collaboration

Work under pressure

Education

Qualified solicitor (or equivalent)

Job description

Cornwall Council is seeking a SEND lawyer to manage a mixed caseload of education and children's services matters. You will provide clear legal guidance on EHC assessments, plans, reviews and placement decisions, and represent the Council at SEND Tribunals.

You’ll work within a collaborative legal team, supporting junior lawyers, and building strong links with schools, professionals and partner agencies. Hybrid and UK-wide remote options are available.