Senior Legal Officer

Senior Legal Officer – Family & Childcare Service Care Solutions is currently working with a local authority in Manchester to recruit an experienced Senior Legal Officer specialising in Family and Childcare Law. This is an excellent opportunity for a legal professional with strong experience in children and families work to join an established Legal Services team on a 3-month rolling contract, with the benefit of fully remote working. The successful Senior Legal Officer will undertake a wide range of legal casework relating to children and families in both public and private law, including matters arising before and after proceedings. You will provide high-quality legal advice and representation to the Council, ensuring cases are managed effectively and in accordance with relevant legislation, regulations, guidance and professional standards. Key responsibilities as a Senior Legal Officer: Conduct a wide range of legal casework with minimum supervision, including more complex matters relating to children and families in public and private law. Provide clear and accurate legal advice to clients on relevant legal issues, policies, practices and procedures. Negotiate and draft legal documentation, including briefs and instructions to in-house advocates and external counsel. Maintain effective management and administration of case files in accordance with quality assurance requirements. Undertake legal research to a high professional standard and maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant legal developments. Provide legal support to the Group Head, Principal Lawyers and Senior Lawyers. About you as a Senior Legal Officer: Strong experience within Family and Childcare Law. Experience of working on cases pre- and post-proceedings. Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, regulations, guidance and legal procedures relating to children and families. Experience providing legal advice and representation to local authorities or similar public sector organisations. Strong drafting, negotiation and legal research skills. The ability to manage a varied caseload with minimal supervision. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.