At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and supervise criminal appeals for women affected by male violence.
- Company: CWJ, a pioneering organisation focused on justice for women.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, supportive environment, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Women-only role due to the sensitive nature of the work.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team fighting for justice and women's rights.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor or barrister with experience in criminal law and appeals.
This is a new position within CWJ, and will involve working with our CEO, Harriet Wistrich, on potential miscarriages of justice relating to women who have offended in response to male violence. Cases will range from convictions arising from coerced offending, counter allegations, victims of trafficking and grooming gangs, to advising on appeals by those convicted of murder or manslaughter at the CACD and CCRC.
Role Purpose
To lead and supervise legal work challenging the criminalisation of women who have been prosecuted for offences that have arisen as a result of male violence, coercion or abuse. The role will provide expert oversight of complex criminal appeals and review cases, ensuring that women’s experiences are properly recognised within the legal process and that cases are progressed to the highest professional standard using a feminist, trauma‑informed approach.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and supervise criminal appeals and reviews for women prosecuted in the context of male violence, coercion, or abuse.
- Manage a caseload of strategic criminal appeals, ensuring trauma-informed and feminist legal practice.
- Maintain Legal Aid Agency supervisor status and compliance.
- Supervise and support junior legal staff.
- Collaborate with partner organisations and contribute to CWJ’s litigation strategy.
- Engage in training, media, and sector-wide advocacy.
Essential Criteria:
- Qualified solicitor or barrister (England & Wales) with at least three years’ post-qualification experience.
- Meets Legal Aid Agency criteria for criminal appeals supervisor.
- Strong experience in criminal law, especially appeals and legal aid casework.
- Commitment to CWJ’s feminist values and anti-oppression approach.
- Excellent communication and self-management skills.
- Understanding of issues affecting disadvantaged and marginalised groups, especially violence against women and girls.
*Women-only: We deal directly with victims of sexual violence, therefore it is a genuine requirement that this role is carried out by women only - Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR), Schedule 9 (Work; Exceptions), Part 1 (Occupational Requirements), of the Equality Act (2010) applies.
Solicitor/Barrister - Criminal Appeals Supervisor (women only*) employer: Centre for Women's Justice
CWJ is an exceptional employer dedicated to advocating for women's rights and addressing miscarriages of justice. With a strong commitment to feminist values and a supportive work culture, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while benefiting from professional growth opportunities and collaboration with like-minded organisations. Located in a dynamic environment, CWJ offers a unique chance to engage in transformative legal work that prioritises trauma-informed practices and the voices of women affected by male violence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor/Barrister - Criminal Appeals Supervisor (women only*)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who share your passion for women's rights and criminal justice. Attend events or webinars where you can meet like-minded professionals and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching CWJ and understanding their mission. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their feminist values and trauma-informed approach. Show them you're not just a fit on paper, but also in spirit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You never know when an opportunity might arise, so have a concise summary of your skills and experiences ready to go. This will help you confidently communicate why you're the perfect candidate for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at CWJ.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor/Barrister - Criminal Appeals Supervisor (women only*)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your experience in criminal law and appeals. Highlight any work you've done that aligns with our feminist values and trauma-informed approach. We want to see how your background fits with the role!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for advocating for women affected by male violence and explain why you’re the perfect fit for this position. Let us know what drives you to apply!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on cases that demonstrate your understanding of issues affecting disadvantaged groups. We’re looking for someone who can lead with empathy and expertise, so make it clear how you’ve done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Don’t wait too long – we’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Centre for Women's Justice
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key issues surrounding criminal appeals, especially those affecting women who have been victims of male violence. Brush up on relevant case law and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the feminist, trauma-informed approach that CWJ values.
✨Show Your Passion
This role is all about advocating for women’s rights and addressing miscarriages of justice. Be ready to share why this cause matters to you personally. Your passion will shine through and demonstrate your commitment to CWJ’s mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about CWJ’s work, their litigation strategy, and how they support their staff. This shows you’re genuinely interested and have done your homework.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
As a supervisor, you’ll need to lead and support junior legal staff. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences in mentoring or managing teams, and how you can foster a supportive environment while maintaining high professional standards.
