Legal Assistant

5 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality legal and administrative support to the Social Care and Education Team, assisting solicitors across childcare, adult social care and education matters. The post holder will support the progression of legal cases by preparing documentation, managing correspondence and maintaining accurate records, while ensuring a high level of confidentiality, organisation and attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal and administrative support to solicitors within the Social Care and Education Team.
  
• Assist with childcare, adult social care and education-related legal matters.
  
• Prepare, draft and format legal documents, correspondence and other case-related documentation.
  
• Assist solicitors with the preparation of documents for family proceedings and court hearings.
  
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files and records using relevant case management systems.
  
• Organise and manage legal documentation, ensuring information is appropriately filed and readily accessible.
  
• Assist with court and hearing preparation, including compiling relevant documentation and bundles.
  
• Communicate professionally with solicitors, clients, social care professionals, court representatives and other relevant stakeholders.
  
• Monitor deadlines, appointments and case actions, ensuring work is progressed within required timescales.
  
• Assist with legal research and information gathering where required.
  
• Process incoming and outgoing correspondence and respond to routine enquiries appropriately.
  
• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive legal, personal and social care information.
  
• Support the team with general administrative duties as required.
  
• Ensure all work is completed accurately and in accordance with relevant procedures and professional standards.
  
• Undertake any other reasonable duties consistent with the role.
  

Requirements

• Experience working in a legal, family law or social care legal setting is essential.
  
• A qualifying law degree, Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or equivalent legal qualification, or substantial relevant experience within the childcare legal sector.
  
• Knowledge of childcare law, family proceedings and court processes.
  
• Experience drafting legal documents, reports and professional correspondence.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
  
• High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
  
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
  
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and legal case management systems.
  
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
  
• Strong interpersonal skills and a professional approach when dealing with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
  
• Previous experience supporting solicitors within a local authority or public sector legal environment would be advantageous.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Solihull
  
• Hours per week: 22 hours
  
• Bi-weekly payments: Paid bi-weekly