Author: Sabrina Delelis

Senior Lawyer (Criminal) – Litigation, Prosecution & Inquest Team
Home-based in the United Kingdom or office-based (at our London or Leeds offices), with hybrid working also available

About Us

We’re the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and we work to improve health and adult social care in England.

We have a purpose to regulate health and adult social care, work together with the public, systems and providers of care to protect people, and to promote and improve quality of care. Our vision is to see everyone receiving safe, effective and compassionate care.

We’re committed to listening, acting, informing and protecting the public, helping providers and systems of care to improve and innovate, ensuring our people feel valued and do great work, and working together with partners who share our purpose for better care.

One of our main commitments is to become a truly inclusive organisation and to role model a diverse and representative culture. To do so, we work with a variety of networks, including the Disability Equality Network, Race Equality Network and LGBT+ Equality Network.

We are now looking for a Senior Lawyer to join our Litigation, Prosecution & Inquest Team on a full-time, permanent basis, working 37 hours per week. For the right candidate, compressed hours may be considered.

The Benefits

– Salary of £55,172 (National Framework) or £61,028 (London Framework if you are London office-based or home-based and live within the boundary of the M25). There is also a £600 annual homeworking allowance for full-time homeworkers and an annual Recruitment and Retention Allowance of £2,500
– Annual leave starting at 27 days per year, rising to 32.5 days with service, plus bank holidays (usually 8 days per year)
– Training and development opportunities
– Wellbeing initiatives, such as gym discounts and meditation
– NHS pension scheme, with around 14% employer contribution
– Discount schemes (including eligibility for a Blue Light card, at a cost of £4.99 and valid for 2 years), reward vouchers, car leasing and more!

Why this could be a great role for you…

This is a fantastic opportunity for a high-calibre, qualified lawyer with experience of criminal litigation, prosecutions, inquests or regulatory enforcement work to join our vital national organisation.

With genuine flexibility, you’ll be enabled to work from home anywhere in the UK, work from one of our offices, or combine the two through hybrid working. Through these options and the potential of compressed hours, we are focused on helping you achieve a healthy balance between your career and personal commitments.

What’s more, you’ll benefit from excellent professional development opportunities, a highly competitive pension scheme and a supportive environment where your expertise and contribution will be valued.

What you will bring…

– Qualifications as a solicitor, barrister or legal executive in England and Wales
– At least five years’ professional legal experience, including managing caseloads and advising on complex legal matters
– Experience handling legal proceedings, including presenting cases in the criminal courts, coronial settings or a background in regulatory enforcement work
– Experience leading or supporting colleagues while applying knowledge of investigations, prosecutions or public law to solve complex problems

What you’ll be doing…

As a Senior Lawyer, you will provide expert legal advice and support across a range of complex regulatory matters, helping ensure our decisions are fair, lawful and focused on protecting people who use health and care services.

Working closely with colleagues across CQC, you will lead legal work on investigations, prosecutions and inquest cases, providing practical advice and helping shape legal strategies that support effective regulatory and enforcement activity.

You will also play an important leadership role within the team, supporting colleagues through supervision and coaching. Building strong relationships with senior stakeholders, you will help to ensure Legal Services continues to deliver high-quality, consistent support across the organisation.

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 16 June 2026 at 11.59pm.

Next steps…

If you require any support or assistance with the recruitment process, please get in touch with our team or include a note in your application.

We know diverse teams allow for a more creative and productive environment and therefore encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, gender/sex, gender identity or expression, religion or belief, disability, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

So, if you want to develop your career as a Senior Lawyer, please apply via the button shown.

Other organisations may call this role Criminal Lawyer, Regulatory Lawyer, Litigation Lawyer, Prosecution Lawyer, Inquest Lawyer, Senior Solicitor, Barrister, Senior Legal Executive, Legal Counsel, or Regulatory Enforcement Lawyer.

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Paralegal / Legal Executive – Mental Health Law

Oti & Lion Solicitors is a specialist mental health law firm in Leicester, and we are looking for a dedicated, motivated and empathetic individual to join our team as a Paralegal or Legal Executive.

In this role, you will provide high-quality assistance with mental health cases. You will support our solicitors with client care, legal drafting, and case preparation, as well as attend hearings and client meetings where needed.

An interest in mental health and supporting vulnerable individuals is important.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Approachable and empathetic, because often this area of work can be distressing for family members of the client.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent organisation and prioritisation skills, and the ability to work with tight deadlines when necessary.
• A personable, calm, and caring nature with excellent client care and interpersonal skills.
• A driving licence and access to a car.

What we offer:

• Training and development in mental health law.
• Support to work towards legal qualifications if required.
• A friendly, supportive working environment.

Salary: Commensurate with experience.

How to apply: If you are interested in this role, please send your CV and covering letter to oti@otiandlionsolictiors.com

Would you like to see your job advertisement on the MHLA website, for just £75? Send your text and optional logo to us at: admin@mhla.co.uk. We will supply an invoice. Adverts are published upon receipt of payment.

1. Mental health solicitor

London & South west

We are seeking a highly motivated and compassionate individual to join our specialist Mental Health team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is committed to mental health law and delivering outstanding client care.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing their own caseload and preparing files for billing prior to submission to our dedicated billing department. General administrative duties will also form part of the role.

We have vacancies available in both our London and Bristol offices. While local candidates are preferred, we are open to considering strong applicants based outside these areas. Hybrid working arrangements are in place.

Requirements:

Membership of the Law Society’s Mental Health Accreditation Scheme – Essential

Full UK driving licence – Desirable

Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience.

Competitive salary depending on experience.

Start date: ASAP

Please apply with CV to info@abbottsmartin.com

2. Mental Health Paralegal

London

We are also seeking a proactive and organised Paralegal to join our growing Mental Health department. This role would suit an individual with a strong interest in Mental Health law and a commitment to supporting vulnerable clients.

The successful candidate will assist fee earners with case preparation, obtaining medical records and section papers, liaising with hospitals and tribunals, preparing bundles, file management, and general administrative duties. There will also be opportunities to attend hearings and gain hands-on experience within a specialist legal aid practice.

We have vacancies available in both our London and Bristol offices. Hybrid working arrangements are in place.

Requirements:

• Previous legal experience preferred  
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Full UK driving licence – Desirable

Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience.

Please apply with CV to info@abbottsmartin.com

Would you like to see your job advertisement on the MHLA website, for just £75? Send your text and optional logo to us at: admin@mhla.co.uk. We will supply an invoice. Adverts are published upon receipt of payment.

Mental Health Panel Member and Mental Health Caseworker – Burke Niazi Solicitors

Burke Niazi Solicitors is a highly regarded multi-service law firm. We are a Legal Aid practice based in North London, have around 35 employees and are a Legal 500 recognised firm. We are recruiting for two positions in our busy and supportive Mental Health Department:-

1. Mental Health Panel Member.
2. Mental Health Caseworker (minimum of 12 months experience and working towards accreditation).

This is an excellent opportunity for dedicated practitioners who are passionate about access to justice and representing vulnerable clients.

The Role

You will manage a varied caseload of mental health matters, including advocacy, hospital visits and working closely with clients in secure and community settings.

Candidates who have a mixed practice are welcome to apply as opportunity to undertake other areas of work alongside.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Hybrid working arrangements
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Opportunities for career development and cross-departmental work

About You

• Accredited Mental Health Law panel member or working towards this
• Experience managing legally aided mental health cases
• Strong client care skills and ability to work with vulnerable individuals
• Organised, proactive and able to work both independently and as part of a team

The positions would suit applicants looking for personal and career growth opportunities; allowing you to build upon your experience within a modern and dynamic practice. Please apply with covering letter and CV to harrietkaiser@burkeniazi.com

Website – www.burkeniazi.com

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Adult Social Care Lawyer

Reference number: SC07598

Location: London

Schedule: Full-time

Salary Range: (Full time equivalent) – £50,175 – £57,495

Contract Type: Permanent

The role

Step into a role where your expertise can help shape the provision of Adult Social Care services.

Southwark Council’s Safeguarding and Community Services Legal Team is now hiring an ambitious Adult Social Care Lawyerto help drive exceptional outcomes for our residents.

By joining us, you will be at the heart of legal decision-making that protects vulnerable adults and supports life-changing outcomes for individuals and their families.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a close-knit, progressive legal team that invests in your development and gives you space to thrive.

Why this role stands out:

• Impact with meaning: Your advice directly influences life-changing decisions for vulnerable adults and their families.
• Grow where you’re valued: Be part of a supportive, forward-thinking legal team that actively invests in your development.
• Do law with edge: Work on complex, high-impact cases at the intersection of local government and evolving legal challenges.

What you’ll be doing

You will provide first-class, cost-effective legal advice to the Adult Social Care team, ensuring decision-making meets the highest standards of good governance.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing your own caseload of complex adult social care matters under minimal supervision
• Delivering a high-quality, sustainable legal service in line with statutory and contractual obligations
• Researching legal questions and providing clear, practical advice to clients, and colleagues
• Preparing cases for courts, tribunals, and inquests
• Presenting cases at court, as required and subject to rights of audience
• Drafting pleadings and other legal documents
• Preparing legal concurrents for Council reports
• Assisting clients in responding to queries from Council members, MPs, the Ombudsman, and external partners
• Advising on the impact of new and emerging legislation
• Delivering training to clients and colleagues
• Driving continuous improvement, ensuring the service remains responsive in a changing legal and policy environment

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking a proactive and capable Lawyer with:

• Qualification as a Solicitor, Barrister, or Fellow of CILEX, with a current (or eligible) practising certificate
• Conduct of litigation rights (or evidence of having applied for these rights)
• Extensive knowledge and proven experience in adult social care law, including community care, mental health, Court of Protection, NRPF, age assessments, and care leavers
• Experience managing a busy caseload of complex matters and delivering solutions under pressure
• Strong drafting and advocacy skills
• A solid understanding of local government law, governance, human rights, and equalities legislation
• Experience working in a legal service or practice, with confidence using legal research tools and case management systems
• A commitment to continuous professional development
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships with clients and stakeholders
• A collaborative approach and ability to work effectively as part of a team

Additional information

About Southwark Council

Southwark Council is the largest local authority social landlord in London, managing 55,000 homes lived in by 40% of Southwark’s residents. We are home to over 18,300 businesses including iconic London venues such as The Shard, The Tate Modern and Borough Market along with many social enterprises and we have a young, diverse, and growing population.

At Southwark we are committed to making our borough just and fair and are taking positive action to tackle inequalities. Our residents and communities are our greatest assets and the passion we have for Southwark is shared by millions of Londoners who enjoy our outstanding cultural offer, use our hospitals and attend our universities.

Our refreshed borough plan and focus on Southwark Stands Together, (which is our work with Southwark’s communities and the council’s staff to tackle racism, injustice and inequality) underpins all that we do.

Benefits and more information:

https://jobs.southwark.gov.uk/why-us

Salary: £50,175 – £57,495 per annum. This post attracts an additional benefits package to the value of £2,724 per annum (pro-rata) for staff which can be used towards benefits or taken as cash.

Recruitment timetable:

• Closing Date: 11th May 2026 at 23:59*

• Interview Date: Week commencing 1st June 2026 (in person at 160 Tooley Street offices).

We are an organisation who is passionate about our people and understands that richness of diversity is a requirement to provide the best possible services to our communities.

This is demonstrated through our council-wide ambitious commitment to tackle racial inequality in our communities and workforce through our Southwark Stands Together programme.

We particularly welcome applications from members of the Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities to increase representation at senior management level in the Council.

Guaranteed Interview Scheme:

As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people. To qualify, you’ll need to meet the minimum requirements for the role, and identify with one of the criteria below:

• Members of the Armed Forces and veterans.
• Are currently in care, or have previously been in care.
• If you consider yourself to be disabled or if you have a long-term health condition.

*We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role, in which case we will move the key dates for the process. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Attachments

• Click here to view the Job Description and Person Specification

Apply link: https://jobs.southwark.gov.uk/jobs/adult-social-care-lawyer-sc07598-1

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Court of Protection Solicitor (Health & Welfare)

Location: Manchester | Bristol | Harpenden | Aldershot| Dorset

Working Pattern: Flexible (Remote / Hybrid / Office-Based)

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: Competitive + Benefits

About Us

Bison Solicitors is a modern, forward-thinking law firm specialising in social welfare law. We are proud to be fully owned by our employees through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT)—making us one of the only legal aid practices in the UK with this structure.

Our model ensures that every team member has a genuine stake in the success of the firm. After 12 months’ service, employees automatically become beneficiaries of the EOT, sharing in the long-term growth and success of the business.

We are committed to delivering access to justice for vulnerable individuals and maintaining a supportive, collaborative working environment.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Court of Protection Solicitor to join our growing team, with a focus on health and welfare matters.

You will manage a varied and rewarding caseload, representing vulnerable clients and their families in complex and sensitive matters.

Typical responsibilities will include:

•             Managing Court of Protection (welfare) cases from instruction to conclusion

•             Advising clients, litigation friends, and family members

•             Preparing applications, statements, and court documentation

•             Representing clients at hearings and liaising with counsel where appropriate

•             Working with local authorities, medical professionals, and other agencies

•             Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid requirements and funding processes

About You

We are looking for a solicitor who:

•             Is qualified in England & Wales

•             Has experience in Court of Protection welfare work

•             Has strong knowledge of legal aid processes and compliance

•             Is confident managing their own caseload

•             Demonstrates a strong commitment to access to justice and client care

Desirable (but not essential):

•             Experience in public law or community care law

•             Advocacy experience

•             Experience working with vulnerable clients

What We Offer

•             Flexible working – fully remote, hybrid, or office-based

•             A genuinely supportive and collaborative team environment

•             Competitive salary and benefits package

•             The opportunity to work on meaningful, high-impact cases

•             Employee Ownership Trust benefits after 12 months

•             A firm culture where your contribution directly shapes the future

Why Join Bison Solicitors?

Unlike traditional firms, Bison Solicitors is owned by its people. This means:

•             Your work directly contributes to the firm’s success

•             You share in that success over time

•             You are part of a business that values fairness, transparency, and long-term growth

We combine high-quality legal work with a progressive, people-first structure, making this an excellent opportunity for solicitors seeking both professional development and a more meaningful role within their firm.

Apply Now

If you are a dedicated Court of Protection solicitor looking for a flexible, rewarding role in a truly unique firm, we would love to hear from you.  Please email your CV and covering letter to HR@bisonsolicitors.co.uk

Is your firm recruiting? Vacancies can be placed on our web noticeboard for just £75. Send us your text (and optional logo) and we’ll provide the invoice. Adverts are published upon receipt of payment, either straight away or scheduled for a future date when you want the vacancy to go live.

Mental Health Panel Member – Midlands 

About Us

Welford Solicitors is a well-established and respected law firm with a strong reputation in Mental Health and Mental Capacity Law. We are committed to providing high-quality legal representation to some of the most vulnerable individuals in society. Our team is known for its supportive culture, professional excellence, and dedication to client care.

As we continue to grow, we are looking for a passionate and experienced Mental Health Panel Member to join our dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is looking to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a flexible and rewarding working environment.

The Role

You will primarily be responsible for representing clients at Mental Health Tribunals across the Midlands and further afield. The role offers a high degree of autonomy, with the option to work from home and manage your own caseload. You will be supported by a team of experienced colleagues, paralegals, and administrative staff, allowing you to focus on delivering excellent legal services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Representing clients detained under the Mental Health Act at Tribunal hearings
• Advising clients on their legal rights and options
• Preparing legal documents and case files
• Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements
• Contributing to the development and growth of the department

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated and compassionate individual who is committed to Mental Health Law, client care and advocacy.

• Current membership of the Law Society’s Mental Health Accreditation Scheme
• Experience in representing clients at Mental Health Tribunals
• Strong understanding of the Legal Aid Contract and its requirements
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A proactive approach to business development
• Interest in mentoring junior staff and contributing to training
• Experience with case management systems

What We Offer

• Competitive salary up to £55,000, based on experience
• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options
• A supportive and friendly team environment
• Opportunities for career progression and professional development
• Access to administrative, billing, and paralegal support
• A firm culture that values well-being, work-life balance, and personal growth

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV to ranjit@welfordsolicitors.co.uk

For a confidential discussion about the role, feel free to contact Ranjit or Rakesh on 0116 274 5252.

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Court of Protection Solicitor (Health and Welfare)

We are looking for two experienced solicitors (preferably a minimum of 3 years PQE) to join our Court of Protection (Health & Welfare) team.

Please send your CV and cover letter to hr@gnlaw.co.uk – applications without a cover letter will not be accepted.

About GN Law

GN Law is an independent law firm with a committed team of solicitors, paralegals and support staff. We represent clients locally in North London, and more widely across London and England.

Our specialist areas of law include:

● Court of Protection – safeguarding the rights and interests of vulnerable individuals

● Mental Health – supporting and representing patients detained under the Mental Health Act

● Claims Against Police & Public Authorities – challenging misconduct and abuses of power

● Wills, Trusts & Probate – helping clients plan for their future and the future of their families

● Family – supporting families through divorce, financial matters and children cases

About the Role:

We are looking for two experienced solicitors (preferably a minimum of 3 years PQE) to join our Court of Protection team. We primarily represent P in welfare cases, most frequently instructed on P’s behalf by the Official Solicitor, and we also represent family members in the Court of Protection.

We are looking for applicants who are conscientious, driven, organised, and work well in a team, and who have experience of supervising others. Experience of mental capacity matters, best interests and welfare issues in the Court of Protection is essential. Experience of conducting complex s.16 cases is desirable.

The ideal candidate will be ambitious and dedicated to working within this field of work. We are looking for someone with the potential to progress within the firm. This is an excellent opportunity for career progression for the right candidate to build their own profile, to work alongside colleagues listed in Chambers & Partners, and to develop an interesting and varied caseload, whilst supervising and assisting in the development of junior members of the team.

Main Responsibilities:

• Managing your own Court of Protection caseload with appropriate support from senior solicitors

• Acting for P in welfare proceedings, frequently on instruction from the Official Solicitor

• Representing family members in Court of Protection matters

• Advising on mental capacity, best interests, and welfare issues

• Conducting and progressing Court of Protection applications, including complex matters

• Drafting high-quality applications, statements, position statements, orders and other court documents

• Attending hearings and conferences (in person and remotely)

• Supervising, mentoring, and supporting junior members of the team

• Working collaboratively with colleagues, experts, counsel, and external stakeholders

Key Skills:

• Proven experience in Court of Protection welfare work

• Strong understanding of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and associated case law

• Experience advising on capacity issues, best interests decisions, and welfare disputes

• Ability to manage a busy caseload effectively and meet court deadlines

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Confidence in drafting complex legal documents and court applications

• Ability to build and maintain professional relationships with clients and professionals

• Competent use of Microsoft Office and legal case management systems

Essential

• Valid right to work in the UK

• A current practising certificate

• Ideally a minimum of 3 years’ PQE (or equivalent experience)

• Demonstrable experience in Court of Protection welfare and mental capacity matters

• Experience supervising, mentoring, or supporting junior colleagues

• A conscientious, organised, and team-focused approach

Desirable

• Experience conducting complex section 16 cases as well as s.21A cases

• Experience working on matters instructed by the Official Solicitor

• ALR accreditation

• Ambition to progress within the firm and develop a specialist Court of Protection profile

Employment Terms:

Responsible to: The Directors

Salary: Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience+ entry to quarterly bonus scheme

Pension: Enrolment into GN Law’s pension scheme

Contract: Permanent, subject to 6-month probation

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Base: GN Law office, Lodge Lane, North Finchley (hybrid-working available)

Annual leave: 25 days (plus public holidays)

Maternity/shared parental leave: Enhanced package available

Notice period: 3 months following probation

Benefits

• The opportunity to be part of a team of enthusiastic and supportive individuals who enjoy and excel at what they do
• The opportunity to be involved in fun and charitable events to improve access to justice for all. For example, we support the Great Legal Bake and the London Legal Walk
• Excellent internal training and support to access external training
• Support and guidance to obtain the Law Society’s Mental Capacity (Welfare) Accreditation and to obtain rankings in Chambers & Partners and Legal 500
• Hybrid working
• 25 days annual leave
• An employee assistance programme delivered by Health Assured, an award-winning wellbeing provider
• Pension scheme
• Health insurance after 2 years of employment
• Enhanced maternity/parental leave package
• A cycle-to-work scheme
• Quarterly and annual bonus scheme

Application Process

• Please send your CV and cover letter to hr@gnlaw.co.uk (Applications without a cover letter will not be accepted.)
• You must demonstrate how you meet all essential criteria.
• Applicants are encouraged to complete an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form via our Careers page. This is not used in the selection process.
• Two-stage interview process: online then in-office
• References requested only after a provisional offer is made.
• Unsuccessful applicants will be informed by email.

Deadline: 30 April 2026

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Lawyer (Inquiries & Investigation Team)

Grade B – £42,044 (National) or £47,900 (London – for London office-based or home-based workers within the boundary of the M25) – There is also an additional homeworking allowance of £600 per annum for those working from home. The role also includes a £3,000 recruitment and retention allowance per annum.

Contract Type: 12 Month Fixed-Term or Secondment Opportunity

Contracted Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week

Location: Home-based

Closing date: Thursday 2 April 2026 at 11.59pm

Make a difference

Every role at CQC contributes to our mission. If you’re looking for a new role in Inquiries and Investigations that gives you a true sense of meaning and purpose, then you’ve found it! As a Lawyer, you’ll help us give clear, trusted legal guidance that supports CQC in delivering our responsibilities to Public Inquiries and Independent Investigations.

Picture this

You’ll be part of a team working on issues that matter to people across the country, offering legal insight that shapes how we respond to independent inquiries. Each day brings new challenges and the chance to solve problems that make a real difference.

As a Lawyer in the Inquiries and Investigations team, you might get the chance to work on:

– Supporting CQC’s response to a major public inquiry by advising teams on the legal risks and ensuring the right evidence is shared safely and lawfully.
– Leading complex casework that shapes new policies or improves how CQC approaches independent investigations

The role

You’ll play an important part in delivering our mission. In this role, you’ll:

– Provide clear legal advice: Offer accurate, accessible legal guidance across CQC, helping teams understand risks and make informed decisions.
– Support colleagues to grow: Coach and guide Legal Officers, Trainees and Paralegals so they can develop their skills and deliver great work.
– Lead complex legal work: Manage challenging casework and contribute to policy development, working with Public Inquiry Managers, Legal Managers and Senior Lawyers to meet directorate goals.

Show us

We will be looking for specific skills, knowledge and experience in your application form:

– Qualified legal professional: You are a Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive eligible to practise in England and Wales, with relevant post‑qualification experience or substantial pre‑qualification experience in a regulatory or health and social care setting.
– Experience managing legal casework: You can handle a varied caseload, give clear legal advice, and explain complex issues in a way that others can understand.
– Ability to assess risk and support others: You can analyse legal risks in a fast‑moving environment, adjust priorities when needed, and help colleagues develop their skills.

Apply today to join a workplace where your impact is felt every day.

Compliance

Note for internal candidates:

This is a secondment/fixed term opportunity. Please read the recruitment and selection policy section on secondments. You must discuss your application with your line manager before applying.

To progress your application, you’ll need to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK. Without a valid right to work, you won’t be eligible for the role. We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. Some roles may also be subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

Next steps

If you apply, you’ll need to create a profile and complete an online application form. Your application will be completely anonymous. Please see our information for applicants for more details on the process. We contact every applicant to let them know the outcome of their application, so you will hear from us whether or not you are shortlisted.

You can read the full details of the role in the Job Description via the apply button.

If you’d like an informal chat about the role, contact – Lorraine Reed, Public Inquiries Manager; Lorraine.Reed@cqc.org.uk. For general enquiries, please email recruitment@cqc.org.uk.

The Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including:

– Annual leave starting at 27 days per year, rising to 32.5 days with service, plus bank holidays (usually 8 days per year).
– Training and development opportunities.
– Wellbeing initiatives, such as gym discounts and meditation.
– NHS pension scheme, with around 14% employer contribution.
– Discount schemes (including eligibility for a Blue Light card, at a cost of £4.99 and valid for 2 years), reward vouchers, car leasing and more!

Please see our benefits page for the full list.

Equity for all

We know job descriptions can feel intimidating. Research shows they can cause some people to doubt whether they’re a good fit. This happens more often to people from underrepresented groups (e.g. ethnic minority backgrounds). If this role interests you, we encourage you to apply. Your unique perspective, skills, and experience could be exactly what we need.

We want every candidate to feel supported and able to do their best. If you need adjustments to our process, we’ll work with you to remove any barriers. Visit our accessibility page for more on this. If you’d like to chat, please contact recruitment@cqc.org.uk. Please note, if you have previously informed us of adjustments you need for interview or within your role, these are not carried over and must be discussed for each individual application you make.

We promote a workplace where fairness, respect and inclusion are a priority. Diverse teams make our work better, help us deliver our mission and make our culture stronger. See our ED&I page for more about this.

We welcome applications from everyone, and colleagues can find support and community among our many employee networks. This includes people of any:

– Age
– Sex
– Gender identity or expression
– Sexual orientation
– Religion or belief
– Ethnicity
– Disability

Values and vision

We are guided by our core values, which shape our work and our culture.

– Excellence – being a high-performing organisation.
– Caring – treating everyone with dignity and respect.
– Integrity – doing the right thing.
– Teamwork – learning from each other to be the best we can.

We are a disability confident employer and a carer confident employer.

A Note on AI

AI tools can be great for research and refining ideas, but we want to learn about you. If you use AI or Chatbots to help you with your application, keep these points in mind:

– AI can support research, structuring and refining your writing, but your application must reflect your real skills and experience.
– Spell-checking and condensing word counts are great ways to use AI effectively.
– Do not copy and paste AI generated answers. These will not help you stand out; remember, we want to hear about your skills and experience.
– Providing false and insincere examples goes against our core values of honesty and integrity and may lead to your application being withdrawn or termination of your employment.

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Lawyer (Legal Health Team)

Grade B – £42,044 (National) or £47,900 (London – for London office-based or home-based workers within the boundary of the M25) – There is also an additional homeworking allowance of £581 per annum for those working from home. Please note for part-time roles – this will be pro rata. The role also includes a £3,000 recruitment and retention allowance per annum.

Contracted Hours: x1 Full-time, 37 hours per week and x1 Part-time, 22.2 hours per week (Wednesday to Friday).

Contract Type: Permanent.

Location: We offer home‑based, office‑based and hybrid working options. Hybrid working includes two home‑working days each week. Our office locations are London, Newcastle, Leeds, Nottingham and Bristol.

Please note that within the Legal Team, we do not currently have any team members based in the Nottingham, Leeds or Bristol offices. Candidates choosing to work from either of these locations would therefore be the only legal representative based there.

Closing Date: Monday 30 March 2026 at 11.59pm.

Potential Interview Dates: Monday 13 and Tuesday 14 April 2026 via MS Teams.

Make a difference

Every role at CQC contributes to our mission. If you’re looking for a new role in Legal Services that gives you real purpose, then you’ve found it. As a Lawyer in the Legal Health Team, you’ll help make sure CQC’s decisions are fair, lawful, and protect people who use health and care services.

Post 1 – Permanent, Full-time (37 hours per week):

This role is full-time, working Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week. Due to existing flexible arrangements within the team and business needs, the successful candidate will be required to work across all five days.

Post 2 – Part-time (22.2 hours per week):

This role is part-time, working Wednesday to Friday (three full days per week). This post forms the second half of a full-time role and operates as a job-share, with one overlapping day.

Picture this

You’re the first point of call when colleagues need clear legal guidance. You help them understand risks early and choose the right path, so decisions are safe and robust.

As a Lawyer in Legal Services, you might get the chance to work on:

– A piece of complex casework where you help shape important legal arguments that support CQC’s work to keep people safe.
– Providing advice on CQC health-related projects, for example, mental health or equity and rights.

The role

You’ll work closely with others to deliver shared outcomes. In this role, you’ll:

– Provide legal advice: Offer clear, practical legal support across CQC and help colleagues understand risks, responsibilities, and the legal framework they work within.
– Support legal casework and policy: Work on complex cases, contribute to policy development, and handle contentious matters with guidance from Senior Lawyers and Legal Managers.
– Support and develop colleagues: Coach and guide Trainees and Paralegals, helping them learn and supporting the wider team’s goals.

Show us

We will be looking for the following skills, knowledge and experience in your application form:

– Experience delivering legal advice: You are a qualified solicitor, barrister or CILEX professional with either two years’ post‑qualification experience or strong, proven experience advising on legal matters in health or social care regulation.
– Experience managing your own legal workload: You can show that you have handled varied casework, assessed risks in fast‑moving situations, and presented complex legal information in a clear and accessible way.
– Established history of managing caseloads: You have experience advising on legal matters and managing enforcement activity as part of your legal role.

Join us and help CQC shape the future of health and care.

Compliance

To progress your application, you’ll need to provide evidence of your right to work in the UK. Without a valid right to work, you won’t be eligible for the role. We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. Some roles may also be subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

Next steps

If you apply, you’ll need to create a profile and complete an online application form. Your application will be completely anonymous. Please see our information for applicants for more details on the process. We contact every applicant to let them know the outcome of their application, so you will hear from us whether or not you are shortlisted.

You can read the full details of the role in the Job Description.

If you’d like an informal chat about the role, contact Marianne Pitteway, Senior Lawyer at Marianne.Pitteway@cqc.org.uk. For general enquiries, please email recruitment@cqc.org.uk.

The Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits, including:

– Annual leave starting at 27 days per year, rising to 32.5 days with service, plus bank holidays (usually eight days per year).
– Training and development opportunities.
– Wellbeing initiatives, such as gym discounts and meditation.
– NHS pension scheme, with around 14% employer contribution.
– Discount schemes (including eligibility for a Blue Light card, at a cost of £4.99 and valid for two years), reward vouchers, car leasing and more!

Please see our benefits page for the full list.

Equity for all

We know job descriptions can feel intimidating. Research shows they can cause some people to doubt whether they’re a good fit. This happens more often to people from underrepresented groups (e.g. ethnic minority backgrounds). If this role interests you, we encourage you to apply. Your unique perspective, skills, and experience could be exactly what we need.

We want every candidate to feel supported and able to do their best. If you need adjustments to our process, we’ll work with you to remove any barriers. Visit our accessibility page for more on this. If you’d like to chat, please contact recruitment@cqc.org.uk. Please note, if you have previously informed us of adjustments you need for an interview or within your role, these are not carried over and must be discussed for each individual application you make.

We promote a workplace where fairness, respect and inclusion are a priority. Diverse teams make our work better, help us deliver our mission and make our culture stronger. See our ED&I page for more about this.

We welcome applications from everyone, and colleagues can find support and community among our many employee networks. This includes people of any:

– Age
– Sex
– Gender identity or expression
– Sexual orientation
– Religion or belief
– Ethnicity
– Disability

Values and vision

We are guided by our core values, which shape our work and our culture.

Excellence – being a high-performing organisation.
Caring – treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Integrity – doing the right thing.
Teamwork – learning from each other to be the best we can.

We are a disability confident employer and a carer confident employer.

A Note on AI

AI tools can be great for research and refining ideas, but we want to learn about you. If you use AI or Chatbots to help you with your application, keep these points in mind:

– AI can support research, structuring and refining your writing, but your application must reflect your real skills and experience.
– Spell-checking and condensing word counts are great ways to use AI effectively.
– Do not copy and paste AI generated answers. These will not help you stand out; remember, we want to hear about your skills and experience.
– Providing false and insincere examples goes against our core values of honesty and integrity and may lead to your application being withdrawn or termination of your employment.

Would you like to see your job advertisement on the MHLA website, for just £75? Send your text and optional logo to us at: admin@mhla.co.uk. We will supply an invoice. Adverts are published upon receipt of payment.