Hours: 37
Posts: 2
Grade HC11 £43,857 - £48,117
Closing:03/09/21
Location: Hereford, with remote working currently

It is an exciting time to join Herefordshire Council’s Legal Service. We have embarked on an ambitious improvement programme with a new Chief Executive setting a new vision for the future. In the last few months a new Legal Services team structure has been agreed, which we are confident will set us on a journey to provide high quality, effective legal advice and support to the Council. We are investing in our new team, developing career opportunities for Lawyers and Legal Officers to grow and progress in their careers with us. You will be ambitious, energetic and share our vision to provide a top quality service and achieve the LExcel Accreditation.

We welcome applications from individuals nationwide, as the Council is adopting permanent arrangements to allow a flexible approach to working, as has been proven to work through the covid pandemic.

We are now recruiting to a number of new permanent posts across our Children, Adult, Education, Planning, Commercial Property, Contracts/Commercial and Litigation teams. We are seeking dynamic and passionate individuals who are motivated by working for an inclusive and diverse organisation that is determined in its ambitions for the people of Herefordshire. If you enjoy working collaboratively, are skilled in partnership working and share our energy, drive and ambition, we want to hear from you.

We have a great opportunity for two Advocates to join our childcare legal team.   We are looking for a childcare solicitor or barrister with public care experience to take on an in-house advocacy role, dealing with the team's court work. Previous advocacy experience or experience as a barrister is therefore essential.
The in-house Childcare Advocate will be required to conduct initial hearings, case management hearings, contested initial hearings, and Final Hearings (to include regular multi day hearings). The ideal candidate will be able to build and maintain positive working relationships with the Court and client department.  Experience in the Magistrates, County and High Court is desirable. The candidate should have excellent knowledge of the Family Procedure Rules, Deprivation of Liberty applications, Adoption Act, Children Act and the Inherent Jurisdiction. 

The successful childcare lawyer will join an established team who are friendly and supportive under the guidance of excellent leadership.

We offer a wide range of staff benefits, including:
• Relocation payment
• Flexible working including home working and the possibility of part time.
• Holidays: 25 days per year plus 2 days unpaid at Christmas (pro rata for part time)
• Pension: LGPS pension scheme
• Pick your perks – our benefits include access to a range of retail, leisure, holiday and health benefits.

This includes savings, cash back and discounts. We also offer an employee assistance programme that means you will have access to confidential support and advice if you ever need it.

Herefordshire is one of the most beautiful counties in England with some delightful market towns, picturesque villages and a blend of the traditional and modern in the city of Hereford - modern shopping facilities and an ambition for change.

Please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification for more details of this role.

We welcome applicants whatever their personal characteristics or social identity. All requests for flexible working arrangements and reasonable adjustments will be considered.

The following candidates will be interviewed if they meet the essential criteria for the post they are applying for:

• Those who indicate that they have a disability. This is part of our commitment to the “Disability Confident” scheme;

• Those who indicate in their supporting statement that they are an Armed Forces Veteran or Reservist. This is part of our pledge to support the Armed Forces Covenant; and

• Those who indicate in their supporting statement that they are a Herefordshire care leaver. This is part of our commitment to supporting young people leaving our care.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you would like to obtain details regarding feedback on your application please contact Hoople Resourcing