Locum Childcare Lawyer

My client is a local authority legal team in Bedfordshire.

They are seeking to add a Childcare Lawyer to their team for an on-going, locum assignment that is guaranteed to last until the end of the calendar year and most likely beyond this.

The post holder will be responsible for a personal legal caseload relating to all aspects of public law childcare matters, often in relation to highly complex matters.

This post is offered on a full time basis with the client able to guarantee 37 hours work each week. Part time applicants need not be put off applying as my client will make the contract work for the right candidate.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified Solicitor, Barrister or FILEx with at least 4 year's PQE or equivalent. They will have significant experience in giving childcare related legal advice and on drafting all ancillary documentation. The ideal candidates will have a clear and systematic approach to problem solving and will be happy to research new law and policy to meet their client's needs. They will also be a confident advocate and be happy to undertake their own advocacy at court.

Duties will include:

• Representing the local authority in a wide range of public matters, varying in complexity
• Managing a personal caseload as well as assisting Senior Solicitors
• Conducting advocacy t a wide range of contested and non-contested hearings including fact finding hearings and multi day final hearings
• Drafting applications for issues at courts
• Drafting legal documents in the course of proceedings, including case summary, threshold documents, letters of instructions, requests for statements and requests for disclosure
• Advising the client department
• Attending PLO meetings, in-house professionals meetings and advocates meetings
• Preparing trial bundles

Hourly rate is negotiable dependent upon experience but candidates can expect an offer of between £30 and £45 per hour (Inside IR35). 1 -2 days working from home each week can also be arranged, if required.

To apply for this post please contact Emily Bulman at Chadwick Nott, Birmingham on 0121 200 5575 or email

Chadwick Nott Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.