Solicitor - Adults

Blackburn with Darwen Council; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Blackburn with Darwen Council is seeking talented Solicitors/Lawyers and Principal Solicitors/Lawyers to join our forward-thinking legal team. You will advise on Adult Social Care and Education law, represent in relevant proceedings, and help shape policy to protect communities.

Meaningful work across safeguarding, contracts, governance, and regulatory matters. You will have autonomy, senior leadership influence, and opportunities for training within a supportive culture.

Responsibilities

• Advise on Adult Social Care law and practice, including Court of Protection work.
• Advise Education law matters, including school admissions and exclusions.
• Lead on complex cases, mentor colleagues, and influence policy decisions.

Job description

The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.

Terms & Conditions: 37 Hours, Permanent, Full time

Interview Date: w/c 9 November 2026

About the role

The team advises and represents the Adult Social Care department on all aspects of Adult Social Care law and practice including advice and representation in Court of Protection proceedings, and providing advice on e.g. Care Act duties, Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty, Ordinary Residence queries/disputes, Mental Health Act queries and Safeguarding.

The team also advises and represents the Education department on all aspects of education law and practice e.g. school admissions and exclusions, admissions appeals, policies, parental disputes relating to Education Health Care Plans, and representation in appeals to the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Tribunal.

About the Service

After celebrating internal promotions, wishing several long‑serving colleagues a well‑earned retirement and supporting colleagues to move to pastures new, we’re recruiting! We’re also expanding our Legal team in preparation for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in local government so we’re looking for ambitious talent ready to make an impact.

We’re looking for talented Solicitors/Lawyers and Principal Solicitors/Lawyers to join our forward‑thinking local authority legal team. This is your opportunity to work at the heart of public service, using your skills to protect communities, support vital services, and influence decisions that shape the lives of thousands.

• Meaningful, varied work — From safeguarding and governance to contracts, property, and regulatory matters, every day brings new challenges that genuinely impact the public good.
• Professional respect and autonomy — You’ll be trusted to lead on complex cases, advise senior leaders, and shape policy with your legal insight.
• Supportive, collaborative culture —We work proactively and collaboratively in a friendly and supportive environment to achieve the best outcomes, and to support opportunities for training and development.
• Clear progression pathways — Whether you’re an experienced solicitor ready for your next step or a principal solicitor seeking strategic influence, we offer room to grow.
• Work–life balance — Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to wellbeing mean you can excel professionally without compromising your life outside work.

Who we’re looking for

• Solicitors/Lawyers with strong technical skills, sound judgement, and a commitment to public service.
• Principal Solicitors/Lawyers ready to lead, mentor, and drive high‑quality legal practice across the authority.

Make a real difference where your expertise truly matters – Join our Legal Team!