Legal Assistant

Job Category : Legal

Location : Halton Borough Council

Hours Per Week : 37.00

Start Date : Immediate Start

Start Time : 09:00

End Time : 17:30

Salary: £18.00

To prepare Local Authority applications in care proceedings, as directed by the Group Solicitor.

In consultation with Legal Services provide social workers and their line managers with timetable for all Court processes and proceedings.

Coordinate LAM’s between Legal Services and social workers.

To issue proceedings using the Family Public Law Portal and serve documents/papers on Legal representatives/Courts, and the client team.

To be able to use IT and office equipment and software to produce documentation necessary for the role

To assist solicitors in ensuring case files are kept updated using the councils case management systems,

7.         To contribute to the provision of an efficient and effective legal service with a commitment to continual improvement and performance management.

8.         To manage work related pressures from deadlines, interruptions, and the caseload and balance those conflicting demands of the job

9.         To attend court and meetings with counsel, as necessary (if applicable to the role).

10.       To assist with disclosure of documents for court and court bundles as agreed by the Group Solicitor.

11.       To co-ordinate the attendance at Court of social workers, managers and external parties

12.       Requirement to work flexibly when required

To assist with case progression in the social care teams in relation to Discharge of Care 

To assist the team with its case management system.

To assist the council in meeting its targets in accordance with PLO protocol and court directions

Experience

Minimum 2yrs Post qualifying experience in relevant Child Care/Child Care Law setting

Family Court experience, including preparation of Statements and ability to work with people from a range of professions

Experience of working within LA Social Services/Legal Services/Courts settings

Involvement in the presentation of evidence to court

Experience of delivering training

Skills and Abilities

Supporting colleagues and assisting them to meet deadlines.

Ability to coordinate & support colleagues through Court Protocols and Processes 

Demonstrable communication skills (verbal and written)

Good presentation skills

Knowledge

Knowledge of Child Care Law & Court Protocol