Lawyer - Adults Services

Lawyer - Children''s Services
Location: Halton, Cheshire
Pay: Up to -28.96 per hour
Contract: Initial 6-month contract with potential to become permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week

Make a Difference in Children''s Lives Through Legal Excellence
Halton Borough Council is a progressive and ambitious authority with a strong commitment to its communities. Located in Cheshire with excellent transport links, we offer a supportive working environment where legal professionals can thrive and directly contribute to positive outcomes for vulnerable children and families.

We are now seeking a dedicated and experienced Lawyer - Children''s Services to join our Legal Services Directorate. This is a vital role where your legal expertise will help safeguard and protect children across the borough.

About the Role
As a key member of the Legal Services team, you will provide high-quality legal and procedural advice across the full range of children''s social care matters. From pre-proceedings and public law care applications to complex safeguarding issues and advocacy in family courts, this role is both challenging and rewarding.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake advocacy and litigation in family proceedings to represent the Council''s interests

• Advise on all aspects of children''s social care law, including pre-proceedings, care applications, adoption, and Special Guardianship Orders

• Support and advise social workers and senior officers on legal and procedural matters

• Draft complex legal documents and prepare cases for court

• Deliver legal advice to Council Boards, Panels, Committees, and Officers to support effective decision-making

• Keep up to date with developments in child law and assess implications for Council services

• Deliver training and guidance to internal stakeholders to enhance legal understanding and practice

• Collaborate closely with Children''s Services, external partners, and courts to achieve the best outcomes for children

• Maintain compliance with Legal Services'' Practice Standards and contribute to service improvement initiatives

About You
You will hold a recognised legal qualification as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive, and ideally have:

• Experience in children''s social care law, preferably within a local authority or public sector setting

• Strong knowledge of the Children Act 1989, associated legislation, case law, and public law proceedings

• Excellent advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills

• The ability to work under pressure, manage deadlines, and deliver pragmatic legal solutions

• A proactive, team-oriented approach with a focus on client service

• Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent (e.g. G Suite, Mosaic)

• A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for travel within and outside the borough (reasonable adjustments available)

Why Halton?
Halton is known for its collaborative and supportive culture. Within our Legal Services Directorate, you''ll join a knowledgeable and experienced team committed to achieving the best outcomes for children. You''ll have the opportunity to grow professionally, influence decision-making, and be part of a service that truly makes a difference.

Connect2Halton is a trading style of Halton & Kent Commercial Services LLP- A joint venture between Halton Borough Council & Commercial Services Kent Ltd. Connect2Halton is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.