Crime Solicitor NQ-3 PQE - Protest & General

Hodge Jones & Allen LLP is a prominent law firm dedicated to social justice and providing exceptional legal representation. We are seeking a motivated and skilled Crime Solicitor with 2-3 years of post‑qualification experience to join our vibrant Protest & General teams. This solicitor will be involved in handling a diverse range of criminal cases, particularly those related to protest actions and general crime matters. The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment that values advocacy and is passionate about defending the rights of individuals.

You will represent clients facing criminal charges stemming from protest activities, while also managing general crime cases, ensuring each client receives the high level of care and support they deserve. Our team has been at the forefront of cutting‑edge protest cases over the last decade – from the "Ziegler" case to the Colston 4 to the key Court of Appeal decisions on sentencing in protest cases. We regularly represent anti‑arms protestors and activists associated with Greenpeace, Extinction Rebellion, Just Stop Oil, Palestine Action, Palestine Solidarity Campaign and Black Lives Matter as well as activists protesting outside of any official campaign.

We have pioneered the use of defences based on Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights and have been involved in the majority of judgments touching on protest over the last decade. We have also been involved in cases arising from the increasing use of terrorism legislation in the context of protest. This is an opportunity for a solicitor to join this team, with some work in this dynamic area of law, as well as in general crime.

We undertake significant amounts of advocacy in the Magistrates and Crown Courts and appear in the Appellate Courts. This role will allow you the opportunity to develop advocacy skills and be involved in cases in the higher courts or where the issues involve fundamental human rights. The protest team work together closely and regularly co‑defend with each other allowing more junior members of the team to get hand‑on support and guidance from their colleagues.

Requirements

• The successful candidate will have robust litigation skills and a good understanding of criminal law and procedure.
• You should demonstrate an ability to handle a varied caseload independently while also being a strong team player.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client‑care skills are essential.
• Commitment to social justice and advocacy is a must, along with the ability to work under pressure and respond promptly to the fast‑paced demands of the team.
• Being police station accredited and/or having duty status is preferable.

Benefits

• We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well‑being, work‑life balance and professional development, including:
• Generous annual leave (22‑27 days depending on role), plus Christmas shutdown and additional birthday leave
• Extra paid leave for volunteering, moving house and study
• Long service recognition leave at 10, 15 and 20 years
• Pension scheme (3% employer contribution, 5% employee, with salary sacrifice option)
• Life assurance (2x salary) and Group Income Protection (up to state pension age)
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay (subject to qualifying service)
• Wellbeing support, including Mental Health Champions, First Aiders and an Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan (post‑probation)
• Employee referral bonus scheme
• Discounted legal services and access to an extensive Employee Benefits Portal (gym membership, health plans, private medical insurance, dental, cinema and retail discounts)
• Eye care contributions
• Complimentary office fruit deliveries twice weekly
• On‑site social space with pool table and subsidised bar