At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent clients, manage criminal cases, and conduct advocacy in court.
- Company: Join GT Stewart, a leading law firm dedicated to justice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team with a focus on promoting from within.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through public legal work.
- Qualifications: Solicitor with 1 year PQE in criminal matters; accreditation preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 47000 £ per year.
GT Stewart is a renowned multi‑service law firm committed to access to justice. Our lawyers specialise in criminal defence, family law, housing, civil liberties, and human rights. We are a Legal 500 and Chambers UK recommended firm, and we are currently recruiting Duty Solicitors to join our Crime Team in our Leeds Office. This is a full‑time position within a dynamic and growing team, offering an excellent opportunity for professional development within an award‑winning law firm.
Key Responsibilities
- Representing clients detained at police stations
- Managing a caseload of criminal defence cases covering a full range of offences
- Conducting advocacy in the Magistrates’ Court, including summary trials (and Crown Court hearings if the candidate has Higher Rights)
About You
- Solicitor with at least 1 year’s PQE in criminal matters
- Crime duty accreditation is preferred but not essential (successful candidates without accreditation will be expected to obtain it)
- Excellent communication and advocacy skills
- IT proficiency and ability to work with case management systems
- Ability to manage a demanding caseload with minimal supervision
- Pragmatic, professional, and positive approach to work
- Passion for publicly funded legal work
- Strong attention to detail and confidence to work independently as well as in a team
- Excellent client and team‑building skills
- Ability to work to tight deadlines and remain calm under pressure
What We Offer
- A positive and supportive working environment
- Exposure to industry specialists and career development opportunities
- A team that prides itself on promoting from within
- Competitive salary dependent on experience starting between £37,000 - £47,000 per year.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please send your CV and covering letter to recruitment@gtstewart.co.uk. (Due to the volume of applications, we are unable to respond to all candidates or provide individual feedback. If you have not heard from us within 10 working days of the application deadline, you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.)
Duty Solicitor – Leeds employer: Gt Stewart Solicitors & Advocates
GT Stewart is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment in Leeds that fosters professional growth and development. As a Legal 500 and Chambers UK recommended firm, we provide our Duty Solicitors with exposure to industry specialists, competitive salaries, and a strong emphasis on promoting from within, making it an ideal place for those passionate about publicly funded legal work.
Contact Details:
Gt Stewart Solicitors & Advocates Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Duty Solicitor – Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to criminal law. We recommend role-playing with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence and refine your advocacy skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for publicly funded legal work during interviews. Share experiences that highlight your commitment to access to justice and how you’ve made a difference in clients' lives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Duty Solicitor – Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Duty Solicitor role. Highlight your criminal law experience and any relevant cases you've worked on to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about publicly funded legal work and how your background aligns with our values at GT Stewart. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a solicitor, communication is key. Make sure your application is clear, well-structured, and free of jargon. This will demonstrate your ability to convey complex information effectively, which is crucial for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gt Stewart Solicitors & Advocates
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your criminal law knowledge, especially recent cases or changes in legislation. Being able to discuss relevant legal principles confidently will show that you're not just qualified but genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your advocacy skills during the interview. You might be asked to role-play a scenario or discuss how you would handle a specific case. Practising these skills beforehand can help you articulate your approach clearly and effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to manage a demanding caseload and work under pressure. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully handled tight deadlines or challenging situations, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Communication
Since this role involves working closely with clients and colleagues, emphasise your teamwork and communication skills. Prepare examples that illustrate how you've built relationships and collaborated effectively in previous roles, as this will resonate well with the firm's values.
