Senior Childrens Lawyer

Job Title: Senior Children Law Solicitor - Leeds
Department: Family / Divorce & Children Law
Location: Leeds
Level: Senior (7+ years PQE)

Role Overview
An experienced Private Law Children Solicitor is required to take on a senior leadership role within a Family Department, specialising in complex children matters. The role involves leading the Children''s team in Leeds, acting as a senior figure within the department, and contributing to the strategic growth and development of the practice area.

Key Responsibilities
Lead and oversee the Children''s team, providing direction and acting as a senior point of expertise
Supervise, mentor, and support solicitors, trainees, paralegals, and support staff
Ensure effective delegation, workload management, and quality control across matters
Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback, coaching, and development support

Casework
Manage a caseload of complex private law children matters independently
Provide strategic oversight on high-value and sensitive cases
Ensure appropriate risk management and case progression throughout

Business Development
Drive and support business development initiatives within the team
Build and maintain strong client and professional referral relationships
Identify opportunities for growth and contribute to the expansion of the practice area
Support marketing and networking activities

Financial & Operational Management
Monitor billing, lock-up, and debt management within the team
Oversee work allocation and ensure efficient utilisation of resources
Contribute to and support delivery of departmental strategy and financial targets
Balance chargeable and non-chargeable commitments effectively

Compliance & Risk
Oversee high-risk matters within the team and ensure appropriate escalation where necessary
Promote strong ethical standards and compliance with regulatory requirements
Liaise with compliance teams on complaints, claims, or risk issues

Key Skills & Experience
Minimum 7 years PQE in Private Law Children matters
Strong technical expertise in complex family law cases
Proven leadership and team management experience
Excellent communication and client care skills, particularly in sensitive matters
Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
Commercial awareness with an understanding of financial and operational performance

Personal Attributes
Professional, empathetic, and client-focused approach
Strong leadership presence with the ability to motivate others
Collaborative team player with a proactive mindset
High level of integrity and commitment to quality service delivery
Calm and resilient when managing complex and sensitive cases