At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent clients, manage criminal cases, and conduct advocacy in court.
- Company: Join GT Stewart, a top-rated law firm dedicated to justice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with a focus on promoting from within.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through criminal defence work.
- Qualifications: Solicitor with 1 year PQE in criminal matters; accreditation preferred but not essential.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 47000 £ per year.
Location: City of London
Salary: £37,000 – £47,000
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 City of London 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 by January 2027)
- 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
Duty Solicitor – Criminal Defence | City of London & Career Growth employer: GT Stewart Solicitors
GT Stewart is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment in the heart of the City of London. With a strong commitment to professional development and a culture that prioritises internal promotion, our Duty Solicitors benefit from exposure to industry specialists and a competitive salary package. Join us to make a meaningful impact in criminal defence while advancing your career in an award-winning law firm dedicated to access to justice.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Duty Solicitor – Criminal Defence | City of London & Career Growth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other legal professionals, 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
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews can help you feel more confident and prepared. Focus on articulating your experience in criminal defence and how it aligns with the role of a Duty Solicitor.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for publicly funded legal work. During interviews, share specific examples of why this area matters to you and how you’ve made a difference in past roles. It’ll set you apart from the competition!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Duty Solicitor – Criminal Defence | City of London & Career Growth
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. We want to see how you fit into our dynamic team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for criminal defence and publicly funded legal work. Let us know why you're excited about joining GT Stewart and how you can contribute to our mission.
Showcase Your Advocacy Skills:Since advocacy is key in this role, mention any relevant experiences where you've represented clients or conducted trials. We love to see examples of how you've managed challenging situations and achieved positive outcomes.
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’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at GT Stewart!
How to prepare for a job interview at GT Stewart Solicitors
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on key criminal law concepts and recent case law. Being able to discuss relevant legal principles confidently will show your expertise and passion for 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, so think through your approach and be ready to articulate it clearly.
✨Highlight Your Client Management Experience
Be ready to share examples of how you've managed a demanding caseload in the past. Discuss your strategies for prioritising tasks and maintaining client relationships, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm’s approach to criminal defence and opportunities for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the firm is the right fit for you.
