Job description

3 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• Dorset Council is seeking an experienced Adults Solicitor to join its Adult Social Care Legal Team on a three-month temporary contract.

• The postholder will provide high-quality legal advice, drafting, and representation across all areas of adult social care law, supporting Adult Services and related departments.

• This role involves managing a varied caseload of Court of Protection, Care Act 2014, and Mental Health Act 1983 matters, ensuring compliance with statutory duties and best practice in public law.

• The position offers a rate of £50–£55 per hour (DOE) for 37 hours per week, based in Dorchester, Dorset, and falls inside IR35.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Provide specialist legal advice and representation to Dorset Council’s Adult Services on complex social care matters.

• Prepare and conduct litigation, including advocacy before the Court of Protection, tribunals, and other relevant panels.

• Handle s.21A Mental Capacity Act 2005 challenges, welfare applications, and issues concerning deprivation of liberty.

• Advise on matters arising under the Care Act 2014, Mental Health Act 1983, and Ordinary Residence disputes.

• Draft and negotiate legal documents, agreements, and court pleadings, ensuring accuracy and compliance with procedural rules.

• Instruct Counsel and liaise with external legal providers where appropriate.

• Keep abreast of new legislation, case law, and best practice affecting adult social care law, disseminating updates to colleagues.

• • Represent the Head of Legal Services at committees, working groups, and meetings.

• Contribute to training sessions and knowledge-sharing initiatives within Legal Services.

Skills/Experience:

• Demonstrable experience handling Court of Protection work, including s.21A MCA 2005 challenges and welfare proceedings.

• Strong knowledge of the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and Mental Health Act 1983.

• Proven ability to draft complex legal documentation, provide clear legal advice, and conduct advocacy.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and judgement skills.

• Strong case management abilities with the capacity to prioritise workloads and meet tight deadlines.

• Experience working collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and high professional standards.

• Desirable: Experience working within a local authority legal department and an understanding of local government law and procedures.

Additional Information:

• The closing date: 21/11/2025.

• Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) with post-qualification experience in adult social care, mental capacity, or public law.

• Hours: 37 per week.

Adults Solicitor

Job description

Karina Nazarenko