Tribunal Officer

Interim SEND Appeals and Resolution OfficerSouthwest Local Authority - RemoteRate: Up to £400 per dayA Southwest Local Authority is seeking an experienced SEND Appeals and Resolution Officer to join the team on an interim basis. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly skilled SEND professional with direct Local Authority experience managing SEND Appeals and Resolutions to make an immediate impact.This role requires someone with extensive knowledge of SEND legislation, tribunal procedures and mediation processes, who can confidently manage complex appeal cases from initial instruction through to Tribunal.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the preparation and presentation of the Local Authority''s case for First-tier Tribunal hearings, ensuring all submissions are accurate, compliant and submitted within statutory timescales.Take ownership of a complex caseload of SEND appeals, coordinating evidence, drafting responses and managing statutory deadlines.Prepare for and manage formal mediation processes requested by parents and carers.Proactively resolve complex and contentious cases at the earliest opportunity, reducing escalation to mediation or Tribunal wherever possible.Work closely with internal stakeholders and legal representatives to ensure decisions are legally robust, defensible and aligned with Council policy.Investigate complaints and produce high-quality formal responses in accordance with corporate procedures.Interpret SEND legislation, case law and statutory guidance, ..... full job details .....