HB Public Law is one of the country’s leading local authority shared legal practices, it is Lexcel accredited, and we pride ourselves on delivering a high-quality service. HB Public Law is an innovative and ambitious legal service committed to the public sector, and we seek lawyers who embody this approach.
You will join a team dedicated to providing direct legal support to the London Borough of Hounslow’s Children’s Services, rated Good with Outstanding leadership by OFSTED. We support our lawyers to develop and flourish in their careers. We understand that this area of law can be challenging and, at times, highly pressurised and therefore understand the importance of providing our lawyers with a work life balance. HB Public Law offers flexible working, a commitment to training & development and a highly supportive working environment to allow you to work autonomously in the workplace and at home.
Whilst Harrow Council will be the employer, the place of work will mostly be Hounslow. In the main you would work solely for Hounslow, allowing you to develop an in-depth knowledge of our client department, as well a strong client relationship. Cross working is sometimes offered or required within the other authorities in our shared service and there may be a requirement to work at another HBPL client premises. We frequently hold remote meetings with our clients, but you would also be required to attend meetings at Hounslow House in the centre of Hounslow, as well as Harrow Council which is the host Authority for the shared service. Our court proceedings are heard in the West London Family Court which is situated only a short distance from the client offices.
About You
The successful candidate will have:-
- Specialist knowledge of English law, and practice and procedure including knowledge of local government law, equalities law, data protection.
- Children’s social care, in particular in relation to public law proceedings and public law duties to children in need and looked after children.
- Knowledge of education matters including special educational needs.
- A thorough practical understanding of the concepts underpinning local government law and public law principles as they apply to local government.
- Good experience of relevant legal work.
- Providing written and oral advice and guidance to senior managers and members (or equivalent) with support if needed.
- Evidence of continuing professional development.
- The post holder must be a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives, qualified solicitor, barrister or appropriately qualified overseas lawyer.
The closing date for all applications is Monday the 14th of July 2025. Interviews will take place in our Hounslow offices.
If you would like a confidential conversation about the opportunity prior to applying, please feel free to call Suzanne Groocock, Principal Lawyer on 07927 548174 or email suzanne.groocock@harrow.gov.uk
About us
Harrow Council is the 12th largest London borough and one of the most culturally diverse local authorities in the UK, making it a great place to live, work and visit with a range of cultures, religions and opinions that come together to produce high achieving schools and a close and friendly community. Located 10 miles from the city centre and just 13 minutes to Euston from Harrow & Wealdstone station there are great transport links via the Metropolitan Line, Watford DC Line and national rail service. It is easily accessible to the M1, M25 and A406.
Other information
Support for candidates visit:Harrow.gov.uk Our behavioural indicators roles below G11 and above G11 Here at Harrow Council, the vision is one of 'Working together to make a difference for Harrow'.
Important Note
To deliver our commitment to equality of opportunity in service provision, all staff are expected to promote equality in the workplace and in the services the Council delivers. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs at the London Borough of Harrow. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender, reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy, or maternity unless a Genuine Occupational Qualification applies. As such, we value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
As a disability-confident employer, we are committed to making our recruitment practices barrier-free and accessible to everyone. This includes reasonably adjusting the recruitment process for those with disabilities or long-term health conditions. For further information, please contact us at resourcing@harrow.gov.uk
London Borough of Harrow is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Harrow operates stringent, safer recruitment procedures.
Due to the high number of applications received for some posts, we may close vacancies before the stated closing date if sufficient applications are received. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible.