Education Solicitor

Education Law Solicitor

Richard Nelson LLP

Location: Hybrid - Nottingham or Remote (DOE)

Department: Education Law Team
Reports to: Head of Education Law Team – Louise O’Driscoll

About Richard Nelson LLP

Richard Nelson LLP is an Award-Winning National Firm of Solicitors and Consultants providing specialist legal services to professionals, businesses and individuals throughout England and Wales. Established in 2003 by Senior Partner Richard Nelson, a leading professional disciplinary Lawyer, we have grown to include some of the country's most respected Lawyers and Consultants among our Team. We are passionate about achieving the best possible outcome for every client, combining robust legal representation with approachability and straightforward honest advice. Our core values of Integrity, Expertise, Passion, Approachability, Straightforwardness and Tenacity guide everything we do.

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Education Solicitor to join our specialist Education Law Team. This role offers the opportunity to work on a diverse range of Education Law matters, representing teachers, students and parents in complex cases involving educational authorities, schools, trusts and regulatory bodies.

The Education sector involves many different stakeholders and authorities, each with unique legal challenges. As part of our Team, you will provide specialist legal support to clients navigating these complexities, ensuring they receive expert guidance tailored to their individual circumstances.

Key Responsibilities - Including but not limited to:

Case Management

• Conduct cases effectively and efficiently on behalf of clients in accordance with the Firm's policies and objectives
• Manage a varied caseload across multiple areas of Education law
• Ensure all work is carried out to the highest professional standards
• Maintain efficient and cost-effective work practices
• Utilise time recording systems and IT effectively

Client Representation

• Act for clients across the full spectrum of education law matters, including:
• Primary & Secondary Schools: Admissions appeals, school exclusions, independent school issues and contractual disputes
• SEN/EHCP: Advising on EHCP applications, assessments and appeals
• University Students: Sexual allegations, misconduct investigations, visa applications and fitness to practise proceedings.

*Training can be provided by our knowledgeable Team of Education Law experts on Specialist/Niche Educational matters if necessary

Professional Development

• Pro-actively contribute to the development and promotion of the Firm's high standards and reputation
• Participate in business development and promotion of the Firm's education law services
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Education law and relevant Regulatory changes

Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the Head of Education Law Team and other colleagues
• Liaise with Partners on specific Firm-wide matters as required
• Contribute to the team's collective expertise and knowledge sharing

Essential Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Solicitor with current practicing certificate - 3 years PQE minimum
• Proven experience of acting for clients in Education law cases
• Demonstrable track record of successful case outcomes

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent negotiating experience and skills
• Outstanding oral and written communication abilities
• Strong client care and relationship management skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a specialist team
• Efficient time management and organisational skills

Professional Knowledge

• Thorough understanding of the obligations of working as a Solicitor, including ethical obligations
• Knowledge and proficient use of case management systems and IT
• Understanding of how educational authorities operate and how to succeed in cases involving them

Personal Attributes

• Commitment to achieving the best outcomes for clients
• Passionate about education law and client advocacy
• Approachable manner with ability to explain complex legal matters clearly
• Tenacious and determined approach to casework
• High standards of integrity and professionalism

What We Offer