At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team handling high-profile criminal defence cases across the UK.
- Company: DWF, a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services.
- Benefits: Inclusive environment, career development opportunities, and support for all team members.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a busy national team with diverse and interesting cases.
- Qualifications: 1-4 years PQE in criminal defence/regulatory work and strong academic performance.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Why join us?
The Commercial Insurance team at DWF provides high-quality commercial advice on a wide range of matters to insurers and their insureds.
The Criminal Defence sub‑team, probably the largest of its kind in the UK, is looking for a
Criminal Defence Solicitor to join our sub‑team, to be based in our Bristol or Manchester office.
The Criminal Defence Team has national coverage across the UK with experts in many different classes of criminal investigations, prosecutions and inquests, including high profile inquest and D&O cases; defending motor prosecutions – routinely the more serious / fatal matters; defending HSE and Local Authority / Environment Agency prosecutions; complex care home and CQC‑related cases.
This represents an exciting opportunity to work within a busy national team that deals with interesting and high‑profile cases across a range of sectors.
Responsibilities
Main Duties
- Exhibit a high level of technical expertise and an ability to apply it commercially and professionally achieving positive results on large and complex cases.
- Achieve individual financial targets in line with the sales plan.
- Understand client requirements and manage cases in line with service‑level agreements and best practices.
- Analyse risk and further develop sound judgement enabling the justification of decisions to clients internally and externally.
- Prioritise work effectively and maximise efficiency in working practices.
- Understand individual roles in the context of the practice group and proactively seek to contribute to increased efficiency in developing a case load appropriate to the level of technical, and legal knowledge.
- Build working relationships internally and externally to develop business networks and create a solid understanding of the Firm’s direction and client needs – playing a pro‑active role in business development including writing articles, delivering presentations and facilitating seminars.
- Develop increased levels of technical and commercial knowledge via training or supervised working practices.
Person Specification
- Applicants will be considered from 1 – 4 years PQE, and must have a background in criminal defence/regulatory work, including defending HSE prosecutions.
- We are seeking candidates with strong overall academic performance.
- The candidate will have the ability to work well within the wider Commercial Insurance team, to self‑motivate and to provide guidance and support to more junior team members when required.
- The successful applicant will need to proactively assist in wider business development, for example helping to deliver training and communicating relevant legal updates to clients.
- They will need excellent communication and organisational skills.
What we offer?
We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.
We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed.
If you’re excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway.
You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.
About Us
DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services.
We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including DWF, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at DWF, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in DWF and the specific role of Solicitor. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for DWF’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at DWF
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at DWF.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at DWF.
