Lawyer; Children's SEND

Use your legal expertise to make a real difference for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

You’ll join a supportive and purpose-driven legal team working closely with SEND, Education and Children’s Services. Together, you’ll help make sure decisions are fair, lawful and focused on what’s best for children and families.

Our team provides specialist legal advice across education, SEND and aspects of social care. We play an important role in helping the Council meet its duties under the Children and Families Act 2014 and related legislation, ensuring children and young people receive the support they need. You’ll work alongside experienced colleagues and have opportunities to build your expertise and contribute to improving how we deliver our services.

As a Lawyer, you will manage your own mixed caseload of SEND matters, providing clear, practical legal advice and representation.

You will:

• Provide legal advice on SEND law and related education matters, including EHC assessments, plans, annual reviews and placement decisions, supporting the Council to meet its statutory duties
• Represent the Council at SEND Tribunal proceedings, including preparing case statements, working documents, witness evidence, bundles and advocacy at hearings
• Manage your caseload effectively, ensuring compliance with Tribunal directions, statutory deadlines and Court orders
• Advise on complex and sensitive matters, supporting lawful, fair and robust decision-making
• Build effective working relationships with council teams, schools, external professionals, legal representatives and partner agencies
• Support the Senior Lawyer in supervising and supporting junior members of the team
• Liaise with support staff to ensure the efficient progression and management of cases
• Maintain accurate case records and contribute to shared guidance, precedents and best practice

Joining Cornwall Council means more than just working in a legal role, it’s a chance to build a fulfilling career with opportunities for growth and progression. We offer a flexible, supportive environment with a focus on both professional development and work-life balance. Whether through hybrid working options or flexible working hours, we ensure our team members can manage both their personal and professional commitments effectively.

Don’t worry if you don’t have local government experience as we’ll give you the support you need to excel with us. By joining us, you will be at the forefront of building on our excellent children’s legal services for Cornwall, working collaboratively with dedicated colleagues while advancing your career in a supportive environment.

As one of the largest unitary authorities in the UK, you'll be contributing to a wider team that ensures Cornwall has a strong and united voice when engaging with national government, regional agencies, and partner organisations.

We are recruiting a SEND lawyer on a permanent, full-time basis, with flexible working and hours considered. Remote within the UK and Hybrid working options can be considered for the right candidate.

• A qualified solicitor (or equivalent) with experience in children’s law, or an interest in developing in this area
• Experience managing a complex caseload
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain legal issues clearly
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
• A collaborative approach and commitment to team working
• The ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Cornwall Council’s ambition is to be an employer of choice, a high performing Council and a learning organisation. We commit to…