At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice and conduct litigation in criminal law.
- Company: Join a diverse team at Westminster City Council focused on community outcomes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a strong focus on equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with experience in criminal litigation.
The predicted salary is between 42912 - 46854 € per year.
Salary range: £42,912 - £46,854 per annum. Salary negotiable depending upon experience.
Work location: Westminster City Hall, 64 Victoria Street, Westminster, SW1E 6QPHours per week: 36
Contract type: Permanent
Closing date: 7 June 2026
Interview date: Week Commencing 15 June 2026
About Us:
Legal Services at Westminster is made up of a dedicated and diverse team of legal professionals committed to improving outcomes for families in the local community. The team focuses on child protection, adult social care and education. They have built a very good reputation with the local Court (Central Family Court) and the judges. The team is keen to develop the next generation of social care lawyers to continue this important work. Westminster staff are encouraged to participate and contribute to more than just their day-to-day role and volunteering opportunities are available.
The Role:
As a Criminal Litigation Solicitor, you will provide expert legal advice on all matters relating to criminal litigation. You will conduct litigation proceedings at all levels of the criminal court system. Your day-to-day will include offering robust, risk-assessed advice, drafting, preparing and collating reports and legal documentation in support of a busy team. You will lead your cases with minimal supervision, but with the opportunity to draw on the expertise, knowledge and experience of supportive colleagues.
A qualified Solicitor, Barrister or CILEx fellow (with practising rights), you will have experience managing a caseload of criminal litigation matters. You will have drafted legal documents, including witness statements, summonses/charges, pleadings and legal advice notes, and will have demonstrable knowledge of local authority’s duties and powers in relation to the conduct of criminal litigation. Experience of working in local government, and of representation at courts, tribunals and enquiries would be useful, but neither are essential.
On a personal level, you will have a keen eye for detail and a solutions-focused mindset, capable of working with a high degree of political sensitivity. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic and high-performing team with a strong community focus, and to develop your skillset within a fast-moving and challenging political environment.
What We Offer:
Westminster is home to more than 200,000 residents from all backgrounds, over 50,000 vibrant and vital businesses and three-quarters-of-a-million people work in Westminster. Westminster City Council is one in which our communities are at the heart of our decision-making and help to determine the city’s future. By working directly with our communities and other partners, we can build a more inclusive city that celebrates our diverse communities, and where residents, workers and visitors from all backgrounds will feel welcome and safe.
At Westminster City Council, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive workplace and employer of choice. We encourage and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and aim to have a workforce that, at all levels, represents the communities we serve. We champion equality, diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace where everyone feels valued, has a sense of belonging and is empowered to be their best.
As a forward-thinking Council, we appreciate that people work in different ways, therefore our staff benefit from working a range of flexible working patterns as well as Agile working. The Council is a Disability Confident Employer. If you have declared a disability in your application, we guarantee an interview if you meet the essential criteria of the job.
Criminal Litigation Solicitor WCC624142 in City of Westminster employer: Hampshire County Council
Westminster City Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where legal professionals can thrive. With a strong focus on community engagement and employee development, staff are encouraged to participate in various initiatives beyond their daily roles, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth. Located in the heart of Westminster, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in public law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Litigation Solicitor WCC624142 in City of Westminster
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in criminal litigation. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨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 answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for community work! Highlight any volunteering or initiatives you've been involved in that align with Westminster's values. It’s a great way to stand out as someone who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Westminster City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Litigation Solicitor WCC624142 in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in criminal litigation. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Criminal Litigation Solicitor, you'll need to explain complex legal issues clearly. Use your application to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally. We love a good storyteller!
Be Detail-Oriented:Pay attention to the details in your application. Typos or unclear information can be a red flag for us. Make sure everything is polished and professional, reflecting the keen eye for detail we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hampshire County Council
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on your knowledge of criminal law, especially the areas relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss recent cases or changes in legislation that could impact your work. This shows your passion and commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you successfully managed a caseload or dealt with complex legal issues. Highlight your drafting skills and any experience in local government, as these will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a solicitor, you'll need to explain complex legal concepts to non-specialists. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a mock explanation of a legal issue to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Community Focus
Westminster City Council values community engagement and teamwork. Be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles and how you can contribute to the council's mission of serving the community. Show your enthusiasm for being part of a supportive team.