6 Month Contract With A Local Authority

Dorset Council’s Legal Services team is seeking an experienced Adult Litigation Solicitor on a temporary 6-month basis. This is an exciting opportunity for a lawyer with significant experience in adult social care law, capable of managing a complex and busy caseload while providing guidance and support to the wider team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a busy caseload of adult social care litigation matters.
  
• Handle Court of Protection cases, including Section 21A and welfare applications.
  
• Provide clear, written legal advice on matters including:
  
  • Care Act
    
  • Mental Capacity Act
    
  • Section 117 Mental Health Act
    
• Advise internal stakeholders across the Council on relevant legal issues.
  
• Draft legal documents and undertake advocacy when required.
  
• Liaise with external counsel and relevant bodies.
  
• Support team management and contribute to team development where appropriate.
  
• Keep abreast of legislative changes and provide training or updates to colleagues.
  

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Legal Executive.
  
• Significant experience in Adult Social Care law.
  
• Experience handling Court of Protection matters (including s21A and welfare applications).
  
• Strong litigation experience, ideally in a local authority context.
  
• Experience providing advice on the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and Section 117 Mental Health Act.
  
• Some management or supervisory experience.
  
• Excellent advocacy, communication, and drafting skills.
  
• Ability to manage a busy caseload with minimal supervision.
  
• Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills.
  
• Previous experience in local government law.
  
• Familiarity with Local Authority procedures and governance.
  

Additional Information

• Hybrid working arrangement
  
• Monday to Friday, up to 37 hours per week