Public Law Children Solicitor – Team Leader

HAB Law is an award-winning and rapidly growing law firm specialising in Family Law and Court of Protection. Due to continued expansion and increasing demand, we are seeking a Public Law Children Solicitor – Team Leader to join our specialist Care team. We are proud winners at the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2024 for Diversity & Inclusion and Business of the Year (West Herts), and finalists for Legal Firm of the Year at the British Business Awards 2025. Our work genuinely changes lives, and we are looking for someone who wants their career to do the same. This is an excellent opportunity to undertake meaningful and complex legal work while developing your career within a supportive, forward-thinking firm. Job Purpose To lead, supervise, and develop a team within the Care Department whilst managing a caseload of Public law children matters. The postholder will ensure the delivery of high-quality, client-focused legal services, maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, and contribute to the department’s continued success and growth. The role includes supervising Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Assistants, with a particular focus on supporting Solicitors who are Children Panel Accredited.

Key Responsibilities

Supervise and manage a team of Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Assistants. Manage your own caseload of public law matters. Monitor and support the professional knowledge, competence, and development of the team; identify and address training needs. Undertake advocacy and representation of clients in court where appropriate. Fully instruct counsel, agents, and experts when required. Ensure compliance with all court orders, ensuring they are read, understood, and actioned promptly. Provide clear, practical, and comprehensive legal advice to clients, progressing their cases to conclusion. Ensure compliance with legal aid requirements and case management processes. Maintain accurate time recording, billing, and case management in line with firm policies. Participate in departmental planning, supervision sessions, and audits. Contribute to business development activities and the wider growth of the department and firm.

Person Specification

Qualifications & Experience Member of the Law Society’s Children Law Accreditation Scheme (essential) or Family Law Accreditation Scheme (desirable). Minimum 3–5 years PQE in public law children matters with extensive experience managing complex public law children matters. Experience in private law children matters (desirable) Previous management and/or team leadership experience. Experience working within the legal aid framework, including use of the CCMS portal. Self-motivated, clear thinking and able to carry out casework accurately Ambitious solicitor committed to your own growth and development Skills & Competencies Strong advocacy and negotiation skills. Excellent drafting and analytical ability. Sound knowledge of the Children Act 1989, Adoption and Children Act 2002, and relevant case law. Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities. Proficient in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems. Ability to lead and motivate a team, providing constructive feedback and guidance. Strong client care skills, with the ability to deal sensitively with vulnerable clients Personal Attributes Empathetic, approachable, and professional. Proactive, solution-focused, and resilient under pressure. Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Self-motivated and ambitious, with a commitment to personal growth and continuous professional development. Collaborative approach with a genuine interest in mentoring and developing junior staff