Family Childcare Senior Associate – Exeter – 5+ years PQE
Location: Exeter
Job Type: Full-time
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £60,000 to £75,000

A highly regarded regional law firm is seeking an experienced Family Childcare Solicitor to join its successful and supportive team in Exeter. This is a unique opportunity for a Senior Associate with significant experience in complex childcare matters to play a key role in delivering expert legal advice and supporting the firm’s continued growth in the region.

The role offers a varied and rewarding caseload, including public and private law children matters, advocacy, and strategic advice to clients such as local authorities. You’ll also contribute to business development and have the support of a collaborative and efficient team.

The Role

• You will manage a caseload of childcare matters and represent clients in court and tribunals. You’ll provide specialist advice on child protection, care proceedings, adoption, and private law applications, while building strong relationships with clients and professional contacts.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle a broad range of childcare matters including:
• Care proceedings and pre-proceedings (PLO)
• Adoption and private law applications
• Emergency orders and contact disputes
• Parental responsibility and special guardianship
• Relocation and child abduction
• Represent clients in court and conduct advocacy where required
• Advise local authorities on child protection policies and procedures
• Manage all aspects of care proceedings from initial application to final judgment
• Provide strategic legal advice and build long-term client relationships
• Support business development and contribute to the growth of the Exeter office
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to a positive team culture

About You
We’re looking for a qualified legal professional who:

• Is a Solicitor or Fellow of CILEX (with advocacy certificate)
• Has 5+ years’ PQE in family law with a focus on childcare matters
• Demonstrates strong advocacy and interpersonal skills
• Has local professional connections and a growth mindset
• Is proactive, enthusiastic, and committed to delivering excellent client service
• Enjoys working in a collaborative and supportive team environment

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus scheme
• Flexible working arrangements
• 30 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Extra day off for your birthday
• Private healthcare
• Pension scheme(s)
• Life assurance
• Eye tests and flu jabs
• Corporate gym membership discounts
• Legal support
• Opportunities to participate in charity fundraising, sports teams, and office socials

If you are interested in this opportunity or would like a confidential conversation about your next career move, please contact:

Olivia Reed
Email: oliviareed@chadwicknott.co.uk
Phone: 0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761
LinkedIn: Olivia Reed

Chadwick Nott is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion across the legal profession. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. Where a level of experience is indicated, this is intended as a guideline only.