Child Care Solicitor Advocate (2+ years’ PQE)

Join Our Leading Public Law Care Team

Crane & Staples LLP is seeking a Child Care Solicitor Advocate with 2+ years’ PQE to join our highly respected, Legal 500 and Chambers ranked Public Law Care Team.

Our team has an excellent reputation for handling complex and sensitive childcare cases with professionalism, empathy and integrity. We are proud to deliver high-quality legal services while maintaining a supportive, collaborative working environment where every individual is genuinely valued.

This is an opportunity to become part of a firm where you are not just another number. You will be encouraged to build your own profile, develop your advocacy skills, and establish a long-term career within a trusted and well-established Hertfordshire firm.

Why Join Crane & Staples?

At Crane & Staples, we believe that our people are at the heart of our success. We offer:

• A genuinely collaborative and supportive team culture
• The opportunity to develop your reputation in public law childcare work
• High-quality caseloads involving complex and meaningful matters
• A clear pathway for career progression and long-term development
• An environment where you can settle, grow, and make a name for yourself

We are proud to offer an excellent working environment, a competitive salary, and a strong focus on work-life balance.

The Role

You will play a key role within our Public Law Care Team, managing your own caseload and undertaking advocacy in care proceedings.

Our team is committed to resolving matters constructively wherever possible. However, where proceedings are required, you will have the opportunity to conduct your own advocacy, supported by an experienced team and an excellent network of leading counsel.

Types of Work

You will work on a broad range of public law matters, often involving:

• Non-accidental injury
• Abuse, including sexual abuse
• Fabricated or induced illness
• Neglect
• Drug and alcohol misuse
• Mental health issues
• Deprivation of Liberty
• Secure Accommodation
• Cases with criminal crossover

About You

We are looking for a Solicitor Advocate who brings both technical expertise and a genuine commitment to supporting clients through sensitive matters. You will have:

• A minimum of 2 years’ post-qualification experience in family law
• Proven experience undertaking court advocacy
• Confidence in managing care proceedings from initial instruction through to conclusion
• Children Panel Accreditation is advantageous but not essential. We are happy to support the right candidate to work towards this.
• A strong understanding of Legal Aid work, including experience using the Legal Aid Agency portal
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage your own caseload effectively
• A client-focused approach, demonstrating empathy and professionalism at all times

About the Team

• Legal 500 ranked Family Department, with every eligible team member recognised as a Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
• Ranked in the UK-wide Chambers & Partners guide for Public Law
• Long-standing reputation for handling complex and high-profile childcare cases
• Strong in-house advocacy capability, with the ability to conduct hearings up to final hearing
• Access to an excellent network of leading counsel, including King’s Counsel and professional expert witnesses

Accreditations

• Crane & Staples has been Lexcel accredited for over 20 years
• All Family team members are part of Resolution
• Individual accreditations include:
  • Law Society Children Panel
  • Resolution Accredited Specialist

Our Community

At Crane & Staples, community is at the heart of what we do. As a long-established firm in Welwyn Garden City, we take pride in supporting local charities, initiatives and events, and in building strong relationships within our community.

We encourage our team members to get involved in community and charity activities if they wish, whether through fundraising events, local partnerships or firm-led initiatives. It is an opportunity to contribute beyond your day-to-day role and be part of a firm that is committed to making a positive local impact.

Benefits

• 25 days’ holiday plus one day’s birthday leave
• 50% contribution to parking costs
• Enhanced family policies
• Regular CPD and training opportunities
• Clear progression framework
• Performance-based bonus scheme
• Discounted legal fees

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to: Karen Angel, Office Manager: 📧 k.angel@crane-staples.co.uk

Start Your Next Chapter

Join Crane & Staples and take the next step in your career with a firm that truly values excellence, empathy, integrity, and community.

Here, you will have the opportunity not only to do meaningful work, but to build a lasting and fulfilling career in a supportive and respected team.