Location
Central London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£70,725 per annum

About the Role
The Official Solicitor's Healthcare and Welfare team manages healthcare and welfare cases in the Court of Protection where the Official Solicitor acts as litigation friend. In some cases, the Official Solicitor also acts as Advocate to the court. For welfare cases, external solicitors are retained to act for the vulnerable client, and the lawyer provides instructions regarding the client's best interests and relevant law, practice, and procedure. In serious medical treatment cases, work is conducted in-house; these cases are fast moving and time critical. The lawyer will instruct specialist counsel and independent experts, liaise with clients, families, and friends to ascertain wishes and feelings, and report back to the court. The lawyer will also provide guidance and supervision to non-legally trained case managers and advise the Official Solicitor when required. The work is specialised, fast paced, and can be high profile, often before High Court Judges and reported. The post holder will manage a personal caseload of both welfare and serious medical treatment cases.

Experience
Qualified lawyers eligible to conduct reserved legal activities within England and Wales, including proceedings issued in the Court of Protection. Experience managing healthcare and welfare cases or similar legal work is essential.

About you
Highly motivated with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, specialised, and high-profile environment. Strong communication skills to liaise with clients, families, and legal professionals. Ability to provide guidance and supervision to non-legally trained staff and advise senior officials. Commitment to delivering at pace, making effective decisions, working collaboratively, and influencing outcomes.

Qualifications
A valid Practising Certificate is required. Eligibility to conduct reserved legal activities within England and Wales, including Court of Protection proceedings, must be demonstrated.