£35,412 - £39,152 per annum

Employer Pension contribution £ 7,724 – £8,535
Total (Salary + Pension) £43,136 – £47,687  

As a full-time permanent employee, you’ll also enjoy 26 days of annual leave plus public and bank holidays, with your entitlement increasing to 31 days after five years’ continuous service. Additional leave purchase options and flexible working arrangements are also available.
 
Are you a qualified legal professional looking to develop your expertise in childcare law within a supportive and forward-thinking local authority? Devon County Council is seeking an Assistant Lawyer to join our Legal Services team, working on cases that protect and promote the welfare of children and families.

About the role

As an Assistant Lawyer in Childcare, you will provide legal advice and assistance to the Council and its directorates, with a strong emphasis on childcare law and related legal work. Working under the supervision and guidance of senior lawyers, you will:

• Draft, negotiate, and settle court documents, agreements, applications, and other relevant materials on behalf of the Council, particularly in relation to childcare matters.
• Provide legal advice to officers and departments on childcare legislation, safeguarding, and other child protection-related legal issues.
• Prepare and manage cases for care proceedings and other childcare-related hearings, offering support and guidance to officers throughout the process.
• Assist with negotiations, liaising with counsel, third-party solicitors, and other representatives as required.
• Provide specialist assistance and support to senior team members on complex cases or childcare proceedings.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients and colleagues across the Council.

Why Devon?

At Devon County Council, you’ll find more than just a job – you’ll discover a career with purpose. We offer:

• Structured Development
  Comprehensive training and supervision to help you meet the Regulatory Standards and progress with confidence.
• Opportunities to Grow
  Build expertise across childcare law, with clear pathways for professional development.
• A Council with Purpose
  Be part of an organisation committed to creating a fairer, greener, and more prosperous Devon, guided by our Strategic Plan priorities.
• Inclusive and Collaborative Culture
  Work in a team that values diversity, innovation, and collaboration, where your contribution truly matters.
• Impact That Counts
  Make a real difference to communities across Devon through meaningful legal work that shapes lives and services.

For an informal discussion about this role please contact Joanne Davies Joanne.Davies@devon.gov.uk

Closing date: 25 January 2026

For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.