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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage private criminal cases and represent clients in court.
- Company: Award-winning law firm with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Market rate salary, flexible leave, pension scheme, and life assurance.
- Other info: Flexible office location with opportunities for home working.
- Why this job: Shape and grow a thriving private crime practice in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years' PQE in criminal defence and strong client care skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Full Time | Minimum 5 Years’ PQE Preferred
Flexible Office Location | Thames Valley
We are an award-winning regional law firm with ambitious growth plans, and we are now looking to expand our established Private Crime offering. We are seeking at least one additional experienced fee earner to join our Litigation Team from June 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for a driven and commercially minded criminal lawyer who is keen to help grow and shape a thriving private criminal practice within a dynamic and forward-looking firm.
The Opportunity
We seek a commercially minded private crime solicitor with a proven track record of generating privately funded work, an established referral network, and measurable billings. Candidates must demonstrate strategic growth planning, proactive profile-building, and confidence in networking and outreach to develop sustainable pipelines and increase private client revenue. This role would suit someone with a solid grounding in private client and regulatory crime who is ready to take the next step in their career within a supportive but progressive environment.
You will play a key role in:
- Managing a varied caseload of private criminal matters
- Representing clients at PACE interviews
- Conducting Magistrates’ Court advocacy
- Handling Crown Court litigation
- Assisting in the development and growth of the private crime offering
- Supporting and mentoring junior members of the team
- Contributing to business development initiatives
Police Station Accreditation is preferred.
Required Experience
- Criminal defence experience with at least 5 years’ PQE preferred
- Experience representing clients at PACE interviews
- Magistrates’ Court advocacy
- Crown Court litigation
- Strong client care skills and the ability to manage privately funded matters
Desirable Experience
- Private representation in investigation matters, including written representations
- Experience in regulatory cases
- Fraud and money laundering matters
- Historic and serious offence cases
Working Arrangements
There is flexibility regarding which of our offices the successful candidate will be based in. While the role is predominantly office-based, there is scope for some home working. The successful candidate will be expected to attend courts and police stations across the Thames Valley as required.
What We Offer
- Market rate salary
- Flexible leave arrangements (Holiday)
- Pension scheme
- Life assurance
- A genuine opportunity to help shape and grow a developing private crime practice
- A supportive and collaborative working environment within an award-winning firm
If you are an ambitious criminal lawyer looking to take ownership, build client relationships and contribute to the growth of a respected regional practice, we would be delighted to hear from you. We are an equal opportunities employer and believe that diversity of background and thinking is a big strength in our people. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.
Criminal Defence Solicitor employer: Gardner Leader LLP
Contact Detail:
Gardner Leader LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Defence Solicitor
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and start networking! Attend legal events, join local bar associations, and connect with other professionals in the field. Building relationships can lead to referrals and opportunities that you won't find on job boards.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Consider hosting a workshop or writing articles about criminal law topics. This not only positions you as an expert but also helps you connect with potential clients and colleagues. Plus, it’s a great way to get your name out there!
✨Leverage Social Media
Use platforms like LinkedIn to share your insights and engage with others in the legal community. Join groups related to criminal law and participate in discussions. It’s a fantastic way to build your profile and attract attention from firms looking for talent.
✨Apply Directly Through Us
Don’t forget to check our website for openings! Applying directly through us not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to stand out. We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals ready to make a difference in private crime law.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Defence Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your criminal defence experience, especially any work related to private crime, 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 passionate about criminal law and how your background aligns with our ambitious growth plans. Don’t forget to mention your networking skills and any relevant achievements.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on measurable outcomes. If you've generated privately funded work or built a referral network, let us know! Numbers speak volumes and can set you apart from other candidates.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best 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 Gardner Leader LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your criminal law knowledge, especially around private crime and regulatory matters. Be ready to discuss your past cases and how you've successfully managed them, as this will show your expertise and confidence.
✨Showcase Your Network
Since the role requires generating privately funded work, be prepared to talk about your established referral network. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships in the past and how you plan to leverage them for business development.
✨Demonstrate Your Growth Mindset
This firm is looking for someone who can contribute to their growth plans. Come equipped with ideas on how you would help expand their private crime offering. Think about strategic growth planning and be ready to discuss your vision.
✨Engage with the Team
The role involves mentoring junior members, so highlight any experience you have in supporting others. Show enthusiasm for collaboration and how you can contribute to a supportive team environment, which is key for this progressive firm.