Job Description

About Us

We are a long-established, multi-disciplined law firm with a strong reputation for providing high-quality legal services across a wide range of practice areas. As our Criminal Law Department continues to expand, we are seeking committed and enthusiastic lawyers who have a genuine passion for criminal defence work.

Who We Are Looking For

We welcome applications from Solicitors or Barristers who are

newly qualified or above

, with a strong interest in developing their expertise within criminal law.
Please note:

we are unable to consider applicants who have not yet qualified

, as attendance at Magistrates' Court hearings is required.

Candidates

must be duty accredited or willing to attain accreditation with full support from the firm.

Duties and Responsibilities

Client Representation:

Represent and defend clients facing criminal charges in various settings, from initial police station advice through to advocacy in the Magistrates' and Crown Courts.

Case Preparation:

Conduct thorough case preparation including evidence review, witness interviews, and development of effective defence strategies.

Legal Advice:

Provide clear, comprehensive advice on clients' rights, options, and the criminal justice process.

Negotiation:

Negotiate with prosecutors and other parties to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients.

Court Attendance:

Attend pre-trial hearings, trials, and sentencing hearings, presenting well-prepared legal arguments.

Legal Knowledge:

Stay up to date with developments in Criminal Law and legal practice.

Caseload Management:

Independently manage a varied caseload, ensuring deadlines and client expectations are met.

Record Keeping:

Maintain accurate, confidential documentation in accordance with legal and regulatory standards.

Client Care:

Provide supportive, client-centred service and build strong professional relationships.

Team Collaboration:

Work collaboratively with colleagues within the Criminal Law Department, assisting and sharing expertise when required.

Requirements

Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a valid practising certificate.

Newly qualified or above

(NQ-2+ years' experience desirable).

Duty accredited or willing to attain accreditation with support from the firm.

Demonstrated experience or exposure to criminal defence work. Strong understanding of Criminal Law, court procedures, and evidential rules. Excellent communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage a diverse caseload independently. Professionalism, resilience, and the ability to handle challenging cases. Strong negotiation skills. Previous experience within a

Criminal Legal Aid department

and knowledge of legal aid processes is highly desirable. Commitment to continuous professional development in criminal law.

Additional Information

This job description outlines the core responsibilities of the role but is not exhaustive. Duties may be adapted based on the needs of individual cases or the firm.

PLEASE NOTE:

We do not accept unsolicited CVs or approaches from recruitment agencies for this role. Any such submissions will be treated as direct applications.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Bereavement leave Flexitime Sick pay
Application question(s):

You will be required to cover cases across South East London and Kent regularly as well as further afield. Is this something you can accommodate? The core hours for this role are Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm, however frequent out of hours work including evenings, weekends and bank holidays is required. Please confirm you are able to commit to this?
Licence/Certification:

Practising Certificate (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person