Solicitor

Who You Are

You bring experience of preparing for SEND appeals and appearing before the SEND Tribunal, with a strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice, the Children and Families Act 2014, and tribunal processes. Confident in managing complex and high-risk cases, you excel at analyzing detailed evidence and presenting information clearly and persuasively. You communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders and are skilled in mediation and conflict resolution. You are organized, resilient, and adaptable, able to balance competing demands while maintaining high standards of accuracy, professionalism, and child-centered decision-making. Committed to inclusive practice, fairness, and continuous improvement, you will hold a professional or degree-level qualification or equivalent experience.

What the job involves

As a SEND Solicitor/Tribunal Officer, you will manage and oversee SEND Tribunal cases from early resolution through to formal hearings. You will review complex case documentation, coordinate and prepare evidence, and represent Knowsley Council at tribunal hearings and mediation sessions. You will work closely with SEND colleagues and multi-agency partners, promoting early dispute resolution and constructive problem-solving. Providing expert advice on SEND legislation and tribunal procedures, you will support colleagues with statutory compliance. You will maintain accurate records, analyze tribunal trends and outcomes, and produce reports that inform service planning and improvement.

Skills

• Experience with SEND appeals and tribunals
• Understanding of SEND Code of Practice
• Knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014
• Case management and evidence preparation
• Strong communication and persuasion skills
• Mediation and conflict resolution
• Organizational and analytical skills
• Empathy and resilience
• Commitment to inclusive practice