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- Tasks: Lead and mentor a dynamic crime team while managing casework and client care.
- Company: A leading law firm in Leeds with a focus on professional growth.
- Benefits: Opportunity for career advancement and influence in a senior leadership role.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a busy office and make a real impact in criminal law.
- Qualifications: Minimum 3 years’ PQE in criminal law and experience mentoring junior staff.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong emphasis on training and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Looking for the Next Step in Your Career? I’m working on behalf of my client, a leading law firm in Leeds, who is seeking a Deputy Head for their Crime Department. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced solicitor looking to take the next step in their career, mentor a talented team, and play a key role in shaping the future of a busy office.
The Role
You will work closely with the Head of the Leeds Office to support the day-to-day management of the team, oversee casework, and maintain the highest standards of client care and compliance. You’ll also mentor junior colleagues, contribute to training initiatives, and provide hands‑on guidance in complex or sensitive matters.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head of Leeds Office in managing and supervising the Crime team.
- Allocate and manage workloads to ensure smooth case progression.
- Conduct file reviews to ensure compliance with LAA, SRA, and firm standards.
- Provide guidance on complex cases and oversee junior team members.
- Assist with training, quality assurance, and performance monitoring.
- Act as a senior point of contact in the Head of Office’s absence.
What My Client Is Looking For
- Minimum 3 years’ PQE in criminal law (family law experience advantageous but not essential).
- Experience supervising, mentoring, or supporting junior legal staff.
- Strong advocacy, case management, and organisational skills.
- Confident, collaborative leadership style.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Solid understanding of LAA requirements, regulatory compliance, and quality standards.
Why This Role?
This is a genuine opportunity to step into a senior leadership position, influence the growth and development of the Leeds Crime team, and make an immediate impact. If you are interested in exploring this role, please get in touch with me in confidence to discuss further.
Deputy Head of Leeds Office –... employer: Clayton Legal
Contact Detail:
Clayton Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Leeds Office –...
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might know someone at the firm you're eyeing. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the firm’s recent cases and their approach to client care. We want you to show that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how they operate and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! Since this role involves mentoring and managing a team, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led others in the past. We want to hear about your collaborative style and how you handle challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Leeds Office –...
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your PQE in criminal law and any mentoring experience you've had, as this will show us you're a great fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this opportunity and how your leadership style aligns with our values. Don’t forget to mention your experience in managing teams and overseeing casework.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. We want to see how you've made an impact in previous positions, especially in terms of compliance and client care.
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 regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Clayton Legal
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your criminal law knowledge, especially any recent changes in legislation. Being able to discuss current legal issues confidently will show that you're not just experienced but also engaged with the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully mentored or supervised junior staff in the past. Highlight specific situations where your guidance made a difference, as this role requires a confident and collaborative leadership style.
✨Understand the Firm's Values
Research the law firm’s culture and values. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around client care and compliance, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, training initiatives, and the firm's future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
