At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent clients in police stations and courts, managing your own caseload with support.
- Company: Leading regional law firm with a strong focus on criminal law.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities for high-profile cases and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the criminal justice system while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Duty Solicitor with at least 1 year PQE and strong criminal law experience.
Location: London & Surrey
Salary: £45,000–£55,000+ | Career Progression & Flexible Working
Shape Your Criminal Law Career with a Leading Regional Firm
Are you an ambitious Duty Solicitor seeking to build your expertise and progress your career in a respected, expanding criminal law team? Our client, a well-established firm with offices in London and Surrey, offers a unique opportunity to manage high-impact cases, enjoy flexible working, and benefit from structured career development.
The Opportunity
You’ll provide expert representation and advice to clients at police stations and in Magistrates’ Courts, managing your own caseload with autonomy and support. This is a chance to work within a collaborative team, contribute to the firm’s ongoing growth, and make a real difference in the criminal justice system.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent clients at police stations, Magistrates’ Courts, and other criminal law proceedings
- Provide clear, practical legal advice on a range of criminal law matters
- Manage a busy caseload independently, ensuring top-quality client service
- Participate in a rota for duty work, delivering immediate legal assistance as required
- Work closely with colleagues to share knowledge and support best practice
About You
- Qualified Duty Solicitor (England & Wales) with at least 1 year PQE
- Strong experience in criminal law, police station representation, and Magistrates’ Court advocacy
- Ability to manage a busy caseload independently and efficiently
- Excellent client care skills and a commitment to empathetic, practical support
- Duty Solicitor accreditation essential
Benefits & Rewards
- Competitive salary: £45,000–£55,000+ (DOE)
- Flexible working arrangements across London and Surrey offices
- Ongoing professional development and structured career progression
- Supportive, collaborative team culture
- Comprehensive benefits including pension, travel support, and generous annual leave
- Opportunities to handle high-profile and complex cases
Location & Working Arrangements
- Primarily based at the Surrey office, with flexibility to cover the London branch as required
- Flexible working options available (hybrid/office)
- Court and police station attendance required as part of the role
Ready to Progress Your Legal Career?
If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real difference and advance your career with a reputable firm, we’d love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion or to request further information, contact: David Hawthorne-Finch Managing Director, Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com
All enquiries will be handled in the strictest confidence. Our client is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.
Duty Solicitor - Criminal Law employer: Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions
Join a highly respected independent accountancy practice in Leeds, where your ambition and expertise as an ACA or ACCA qualified accountant will be valued. With a strong focus on career progression, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to mentor junior team members, this role offers a fulfilling opportunity to build lasting client relationships while contributing to the firm's growth.
Contact Details:
Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Duty Solicitor - Criminal Law
✨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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, 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.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, 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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions and the specific role of Duty Solicitor - Criminal Law. 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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions
✨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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions.
✨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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions.
