Senior SEN Lawyer - Public Service Impact, Flexible Hours

West Berkshire Council; England; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Hybrid working (40% office attendance)

LGPS pension

Family-friendly policies

Wellbeing support

Employee discounts

Annual leave 29 days +5 after 5 years

Local government service focus

Job summary

West Berkshire Council is seeking a dedicated SEN Lawyer to manage a varied caseload and provide high-quality legal advice across Special Educational Needs law. You will work closely with education services and stakeholders to support effective decision-making and contribute to policy developments.

Responsibilities include advising on SEN law, representing the Council at hearings, and ensuring compliant advice notes and agreements.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor/Barrister/Chartered legal executive with current practising certificate or equivalent entitlement to practise.
• Experience advising on SEN law, ideally within local authority or similar complex organisation.
• Knowledge of Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice and Equality Act 2010.
• Excellent communicator who explains complex legal issues clearly.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on SEN matters and appeals (First-tier Tribunal).
• Advise officers and members on legal duties, risks and best practice.
• Conduct legal research and prepare advice notes, legal agreements and documentation.
• Represent the Council at hearings and other proceedings.

Skills

SEN Law advisory

Legal research

Public service motivation

Communication

Stakeholder relations

Caseload management

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Education

Qualified solicitor

Barrister

Chartered legal executive

Job description

West Berkshire Council is seeking a dedicated SEN Lawyer to manage a varied caseload and provide high-quality legal advice across Special Educational Needs law. You will work closely with education services and stakeholders to support effective decision-making and contribute to policy developments.

Responsibilities include advising on SEN law, representing the Council at hearings, and ensuring compliant advice notes and agreements.