Solicitor

Who You Are

You will bring experience of preparing for SEND appeals and appearing before the SEND Tribunal, and have a strong understanding of the SEND Code of Practice, the Children and Families Act 2014 and tribunal processes.

You are confident managing complex and high-risk cases, analysing detailed evidence and presenting information clearly and persuasively. You communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including families, schools, legal professionals and internal teams, and you are skilled in mediation and conflict resolution.

You are organised, resilient and adaptable, able to balance competing demands while maintaining high standards of accuracy, professionalism, and child-centred decision-making. Above all, you are 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, attend and represent Knowsley Council at tribunal hearings and mediation sessions.

You will be part of Legal Services and work closely with SEND colleagues and multi-agency partners to promote early dispute resolution and constructive problem-solving wherever possible. You will provide expert advice on SEND legislation, tribunal procedures and statutory compliance, supporting colleagues to deliver consistent and well-reasoned responses.

Alongside case management, you will maintain accurate records, analyse tribunal trends and outcomes, and produce reports that inform service planning and improvement.

Skills

• Experience with SEND appeals and tribunal processes
• Strong understanding of SEND Code of Practice
• Skilled in mediation and conflict resolution
• Effective communication with diverse stakeholders
• Ability to manage complex and high-risk cases
• Organised, resilient, and adaptable
• Commitment to inclusive practice and fairness