Adult Social Care Lawyer - AR

Job Description: Adult Social Care Lawyer Location

London Borough of Merton (Hybrid working - office attendance approximately once per week)

Role Overview

We are seeking two experienced Adult Social Care Lawyers to join a busy local authority legal team. The role involves providing high-quality legal advice and representation on adult social care matters, with a strong focus on Court of Protection work.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice on adult social care matters to internal stakeholders, including social care teams and senior officers
• Conduct and manage cases in the Court of Protection, including welfare and best interests proceedings
• Advise on applications and matters under the Mental Capacity Act 2005
• Support work under the Care Act 2014, including assessments, eligibility, care planning, and safeguarding duties
• Draft legal documents, court applications, and advise on complex casework involving vulnerable adults
• Represent the council in Court of Protection proceedings where required
• Provide clear, timely, and pragmatic legal advice to support decision-making in complex cases
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, case law, and local authority duties

Essential Experience & Skills

• Significant experience in Court of Protection work (essential)
• Strong knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005
• Experience advising on the Care Act 2014 and adult social care law
• Experience handling welfare and/or property and affairs matters involving vulnerable adults
• Ability to manage a varied caseload independently
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with multidisciplinary teams

Desirable Experience

• Local authority or public sector legal experience
• Experience with safeguarding adults work
• Experience in deputyship applications and best interests disputes

Working Arrangements

• Hybrid working model
• Office attendance approximately once per week
• Flexible working supported

About the Role

This is an opportunity to work on complex and meaningful legal matters supporting vulnerable adults, ensuring lawful and person-centred decision-making within a local authority setting.