At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage criminal cases, provide legal advice, and represent clients in court.
- Company: Join a reputable firm with a strong Criminal Law team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with ongoing training and diverse case exposure.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in clients' lives while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Minimum two years’ experience in criminal defence and strong advocacy skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Henry Hyams Solicitors is seeking a capable and motivated Criminal Defence Solicitor with a minimum of two years’ post-qualification experience to join our established and well-respected Criminal Law team. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your experience in a busy and reputable practice, handling a varied caseload and providing high-quality representation to clients at all stages of the criminal justice process.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of criminal matters with appropriate supervision, including:
- Provide clear, practical, and timely legal advice to clients.
- Represent clients at court hearings.
- Prepare cases thoroughly, including reviewing evidence, taking instructions, and instructing counsel where necessary.
- Liaise with clients, counsel, courts, experts, and other third parties.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date file records and ensure compliance with regulatory and Legal Aid requirements.
Police Station & Duty Work
- Attend police stations to advise and represent clients under PACE, including out-of-hours call-outs.
- Participate in the police station rota, including evening and weekend cover on a shared basis.
- Undertake Magistrates’ Court duty solicitor work as required (subject to accreditation/status).
- Provide urgent and time-sensitive advice in high-pressure situations.
Legal Aid & Compliance
- Manage cases in accordance with Legal Aid Agency (LAA) requirements.
- Ensure accurate time recording, file management, and billing in line with legal aid procedures.
- Maintain compliance with SRA Standards, firm policies, and Lexcel requirements.
- Keep up to date with developments in criminal law, procedure, and legal aid regulations.
Compliance
- Adhere to the requirements of Lexcel and the Quality Procedures Manual (QPM) in the capacity of your role.
- Adhere to the SRA Rules and Regulations in the capacity of your role.
- Ensure to follow the Staff Handbook policies and procedures.
- Maintain your Learning and Development log.
- Contribute to the Marketing and Business Development of the Department.
About You
- Has a minimum of two years’ post-qualification experience in criminal defence work.
- Holds Police Station Accreditation (essential or working towards).
- Has experience of handling own caseload (with supervision as required).
- Demonstrates strong advocacy and client care skills.
- Demonstrates excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Works effectively under pressure and can manage competing priorities.
- Has excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Is committed to maintaining high professional and ethical standards.
- Experience undertaking Magistrates’ Court advocacy independently.
- Duty Solicitor Status (or working towards).
- Exposure to legally aided work and billing processes.
- Client-focused approach, particularly when dealing with vulnerable individuals.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in case preparation.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Professional, reliable, and adaptable.
- Participation in police station rota (including evenings, nights, and weekends).
- Attendance at court duty schemes as required.
- Flexibility to respond to urgent client needs outside standard office hours.
- Office-based role with travel to police stations and courts as necessary.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (depending on experience).
- Full or part time working arrangements considered.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Opportunities for career progression and further qualification (e.g. Duty Solicitor Scheme).
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Exposure to a wide range of criminal defence work.
Henry Hyams Solicitors is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Criminal Defence Solicitor in Leeds employer: Henry Hyams Solicitors
Henry Hyams Solicitors is an excellent employer for Criminal Defence Solicitors, offering a supportive and collaborative team environment where you can thrive in your legal career. With opportunities for career progression, ongoing training, and exposure to a diverse range of criminal defence work, you will be well-equipped to provide high-quality representation to clients while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Located in a reputable practice, this role allows you to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable individuals within the criminal justice system.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Defence Solicitor in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other legal professionals, attend industry 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 you handle high-pressure situations, just like the ones you'll face at Henry Hyams Solicitors.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for criminal law! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know why you love this field. Share your experiences and how you’ve made a difference for clients in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Henry Hyams Solicitors.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Defence Solicitor in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in criminal defence work. We want to see how your skills match the key responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
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 makes you a great fit for our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent written communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and free of errors. We appreciate attention to detail, so take the time to proofread and ensure your application reflects your best self.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Henry Hyams Solicitors
✨Know Your Criminal Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in criminal law and procedure. Familiarise yourself with key cases and legal principles that are relevant to the role. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to discuss your advocacy experience, especially in Magistrates’ Court settings. Think of specific examples where you successfully represented clients or handled challenging situations. Practising mock interviews can help you articulate your experiences clearly and effectively.
✨Demonstrate Client Care Focus
Henry Hyams Solicitors values a client-focused approach, so be ready to share how you've supported vulnerable clients in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you ensure clients feel heard and understood, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect situational questions that test your ability to provide urgent legal advice or manage a caseload under pressure. Prepare by thinking through potential scenarios you might face in the role and how you would handle them, showcasing your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
