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- Tasks: Support clients from police stations to court, managing your own caseload.
- Company: Join a well-established, Lexcel-accredited firm with a stellar reputation in the South-East.
- Benefits: Enjoy fully paid overtime and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in criminal defence while working in a culture that values you.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitors at all levels of PQE with strong advocacy skills are welcome.
- Other info: Opportunities for progression and a dedicated team structure across Essex.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We know the criminal justice system is under real pressure right now, but in the middle of it all, there are still firms doing things the right way. We're working with one of them: a well-established, Lexcel-accredited practice with an outstanding reputation across the South-East. They’re growing their Duty Solicitor teams and keen to hear from qualified solicitors at all levels of PQE who want to make a difference.
You’ll be working with both legally aided and private clients, supporting them from police station through to court. The firm has a dedicated team structure — split across North and South Essex, with a separate group in Ipswich — so you’ll have support around you, not just cases on your desk.
What you’ll be doing:
- Attending police stations (during the day and sometimes out of hours — and yes, any overtime is fully paid)
- Representing clients in the Magistrates’ Court, including advocacy and trial work
- Managing your own caseload and progressing files independently
- Acting as a litigator in Crown Court cases where needed
- Giving clear, confident advice to clients at what’s often a difficult time
- Working closely with your team to keep things running smoothly
This firm isn’t just ticking boxes — they genuinely value the people who choose to do publicly funded work, and they back that up with a supportive culture, proper resources, and opportunities to progress. If you’re a Duty Solicitor with strong advocacy skills and a real commitment to criminal defence, they’d love to hear from you.
Contact Detail:
qed legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Duty Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the criminal law field. Attend legal seminars, workshops, or local bar association events to meet solicitors and other legal practitioners. Building relationships can lead to referrals and insider knowledge about job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain practical experience by volunteering or interning at legal aid clinics or organisations that focus on criminal defence. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to the field when you apply.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and changes in criminal law. Follow relevant legal blogs, podcasts, and news outlets. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will help you stand out during interviews and discussions with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to criminal law roles. Focus on your advocacy skills and how you've handled challenging cases in the past. Demonstrating your ability to think on your feet will be crucial for a Duty Solicitor position.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Duty Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Criminal Duty Solicitor. Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description, such as advocacy skills and managing caseloads.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in criminal law, particularly any work with legally aided clients or in police stations. Emphasise your advocacy skills and any previous roles that demonstrate your commitment to criminal defence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for criminal defence and your understanding of the challenges within the criminal justice system. Mention why you want to work for this particular firm and how you can contribute to their supportive culture.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at qed legal
✨Show Your Passion for Criminal Defence
Make sure to express your genuine interest in criminal defence during the interview. Talk about what motivates you to work in this field and how you can make a difference for clients who are often in difficult situations.
✨Demonstrate Your Advocacy Skills
Since strong advocacy skills are crucial for this role, prepare examples of past experiences where you successfully represented clients in court. Be ready to discuss your approach to advocacy and how you handle challenging cases.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Firm's Values
Research the firm’s culture and values before the interview. Understanding their commitment to publicly funded work and their supportive environment will help you align your answers with what they are looking for in a candidate.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you. Consider asking about team dynamics, case management processes, or opportunities for professional development.
