Experienced Children Panel Solicitor

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Job Type: Full-time / Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Children Panel Solicitor to join our Children Law team in Newcastle-under-Lyme. The successful candidate will represent children, parents, and other parties in public and private law proceedings, providing expert legal advice and advocacy in complex and sensitive matters.

This is an excellent opportunity for a committed professional who is passionate about safeguarding children’s rights and delivering high-quality client care and also has future aspirations of management roles. Hybrid working arrangements are negotiable following the successful completion of the probation period.

Key Responsibilities

· Represent children directly (via Children Panel accreditation) in care proceedings and related matters.

· Act for parents, guardians, and other family members in public and private law children cases.

· Manage a varied caseload of legally aided matters.

· Conduct advocacy in the Family Court where appropriate.

· Attend court hearings, conferences, and client meetings (including out-of-office appointments where required).

· Liaise effectively with CAFCASS, social services, guardians, experts, and other professionals.

· Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records in line with regulatory and Legal Aid Agency requirements.

· Ensure compliance with SRA standards and Company policies.

· Assist in supervising and mentoring support staff.

· Participate in business development and management responsibilities where required.

Essential Requirements

· Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales (minimum 3yrs PQE) with current clean practising certificate.

· Accredited member of the Law Society Children Panel.

· Significant experience handling public law children matters (care, supervision, EPOs, ICOs, adoption, placement orders, etc.).

· Strong advocacy skills and confidence in court representation.

· Excellent client care skills, particularly with vulnerable clients.

· Experience working under Legal Aid funding and compliance requirements.

· Ability to manage a demanding caseload independently.

What We Offer

· Competitive salary and potential for a bonus structure.

· Ongoing professional development and CPD support.

· Supportive and collaborative working environment.

· Clear progression pathway within the Company

· Hybrid working negotiable after successful completion of probation period.

Pay: £38,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Free parking

Experience:

• post qualification: 3 years (required)

Work Location: In person