Jobs

We have an excellent opportunity for a qualified legal professional to join our highly regarded Child Care Legal Team at Wakefield Council.

This is a career grade role, offering a structured pathway for progression. Whether you are developing your expertise in childcare law or looking to take the next step in your career, you’ll be supported every step of the way within a collaborative and experienced team.

About the role

This is a genuinely rewarding opportunity to play a key role in safeguarding children and supporting families across the district.

In this role, you will:

• Provide clear, practical legal advice on child protection and family law matters
• Manage a caseload of public law proceedings, including care and supervision cases
• Prepare high-quality legal documentation and undertake advocacy appropriate to your level
• Work closely with social work teams and partners to support effective decision-making
• Contribute to service development and key projects within Legal Services

As a career grade post, your responsibilities will grow in line with your experience, confidence, and professional development.

About you

We’re looking for passionate and committed legal professionals who want to make a difference. You will be:

• A qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive with a current practising certificate
• Experienced in childcare law or able to demonstrate strong transferable skills and a keen interest in the area
• A confident communicator who can build effective working relationships
• Solution-focused, resilient, and able to work in a fast-paced, supportive environment

Most importantly, you’ll share our commitment to achieving the best outcomes for children and families.

We are proud to be a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader and actively welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

Career development

We are committed to your growth. This role offers:

• Appointment at a level aligned to your current experience
• A clear, supported progression pathway
• Access to high-quality training, mentoring, and development opportunities
• The chance to take on increasingly complex work as your skills develop

About Wakefield Council

Our Child Care Legal Team is highly regarded across the sector, with colleagues recognised at the Lawyers in Local Government Awards.

You’ll be joining a team that is:

• Supportive and collaborative
• Passionate about delivering meaningful outcomes
• Committed to professional excellence and continuous improvement

“I’ve felt supported from day one. Everyone in the team is friendly, approachable, and always willing to help.” — Rachel, Trainee Lawyer

“Wakefield Council is a genuinely great and supportive place to work… I’ve been nurtured and supported at every stage of my career. There’s something special about knowing you’ve made a positive difference across the district.” — Benjamin, Principal Lawyer

Why join us?

• A recognised leader in local government legal practice
• Flexible working and a strong focus on work/life balance
• Generous annual leave: 26 days + bank holidays (rising with service)
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
• Supportive leadership and an inclusive culture
• Excellent wellbeing offer, including:
  • Discounted leisure memberships (including a free 12-week PT programme)
  • Retail, travel, and entertainment discounts
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Discounted public transport (Arriva, Northern, MetroCard)

Find out more

Learn more about careers in Legal Services:
https://www.sellickpartnership.co.uk/resources/blog/the-path-to-leadership-in-local-government--q-a-with-gillian-marshall--chief-legal-officer-at-wakefield-council/ 

Join us and help shape better outcomes for children and families across Wakefield.

Want to know more?

If you would like to know more about the role, the recruitment process or working for Wakefield Council, feel free to contact.

Name: Victoria Swithenbank

Tel: 07917 504188

E-mail: vswithenbank@wakefield.gov.uk 

Company: Wakefield Council

Salary: Grade 10 - Grade 12

Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Sector: Corporate Services

Sector: Legal

Sector: Health and Social Care

Job Role: Solicitor