Adult Litigation Lawyer

Description:

As an Adult Litigation Lawyer, you will provide a comprehensive, high‑quality legal service across the full spectrum of adult social care law. You will act as a key source of expertise for social care departments, senior managers, and elected Members, ensuring legally robust decision‑making in a fast‑moving and sensitive area of law.

In this role, you will:

• Lead on Court of Protection matters, Mental Capacity Act issues, ordinary residence disputes and Care Act 2014 responsibilities
• Advise on judicial review, civil litigation and wider adult social care matters
• Conduct and manage complex adult social care cases from start to finish
• Undertake advocacy in courts and tribunals (where rights of audience apply)
• Prepare reports for Cabinet, Committees and working groups
• Provide timely advice on legislation, case law and emerging practice developments
• Contribute to the improvement of legal processes, precedents and templates
• Support and provide guidance to junior members of the team when required
• Deputise for the Principal Lawyer where appropriate

This is a varied, hands‑on role with strong opportunities to shape legal practice and influence key decisions affecting vulnerable adults across the borough.

About you

The council is looking for a confident, capable legal professional who thrives in a demanding environment and can handle sensitive, complex matters with clarity and care.

You will bring:

• A qualification as a Solicitor, Barrister or FILEX (or equivalent). Ideally 3+ PQE.
• Substantial experience handling a mixed caseload of adult social care matters
• Advocacy experience and confidence in managing your own cases
• Excellent knowledge of civil litigation and social care law
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to analyse complex issues, assess risk, and provide pragmatic solutions
• A collaborative, adaptable approach and commitment to high‑quality client service
• An understanding of equal opportunities and the ability to embed this in practice

Previous experience working for a local authority would be advantageous.

The council offers a supportive, inclusive and ambitious environment where legal professionals can develop and make a tangible difference. You will join a specialist team that values expertise, continuous learning and a strong team culture. The council has gone through a period of transformation and modernisation, so this is an exciting time to join the authority on a permanent basis.

The council offers:

• Varied and meaningful caseloads
• Opportunities for advocacy and case leadership
• Professional development and training
• Flexible working options- you will be required to attend the office 2 days per week
• A chance to contribute to vital services supporting vulnerable adults