Criminal Defence Solicitor

Criminal Defence Solicitor

Full-Time 45000 - 55000 Β£ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage your own criminal caseload and represent clients in court.
  • Company: Join JNP Legal, a leading law firm in South Wales.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, and career development opportunities.
  • Other info: Supportive environment with excellent training and growth potential.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in criminal law while developing your advocacy skills.
  • Qualifications: Admitted to the Roll of Solicitors; passion for criminal defence is key.

The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 Β£ per year.

Location: Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales

Salary: Competitive + Clear Career Development + Excellent prospect

Join One of South Wales' Leading Law Firms

At JNP Legal, we are continuing to grow and are looking for an ambitious Criminal Defence Solicitor to join our expanding Crime Team. Whether you are a Newly Qualified Solicitor, recently admitted to the roll, or have several years of post-qualification experience, we would love to hear from you. We are focused on finding the right person with the right attitude, commitment to client care, and passion for criminal law.

With offices across Merthyr Tydfil, Nelson, Pontyclun and Llanishen, JNP Legal has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional legal services while providing genuine opportunities for career progression and professional development. If you are looking for a firm where you can develop your advocacy skills, work on interesting and varied cases, receive ongoing support, and build a long-term career, this could be the opportunity for you.

Why Join JNP Legal?

  • Join one of the most established and respected law firms in South Wales.
  • Work within a supportive and highly experienced Criminal Defence team.
  • Genuine career progression opportunities.
  • Structured training, mentoring and development.
  • Exposure to police station, Magistrates' Court and Crown Court work.
  • Modern case management systems and strong administrative support.
  • Competitive salary.
  • Excellent employee benefits package, including fully funded private medical healthcare and a genuine commitment to employee wellbeing.

NQ Solicitors Are Encouraged to Apply

We are open to applications from Newly Qualified Solicitors onwards. Police Station Accreditation is desirable but not essential. If you are not yet accredited, we will support and invest in your professional development and help you work towards achieving your accreditation and progressing your criminal law career.

The Role

You will manage your own caseload whilst working closely with senior members of our Crime Team. The role offers excellent advocacy opportunities and exposure to a broad range of criminal defence matters. Key responsibilities will include:

  • Managing a varied criminal caseload.
  • Attending police stations and advising clients.
  • Representing clients in the Magistrates' Court.
  • Undertaking the role of Litigator in the Crown Court.
  • Maintaining excellent client care standards.
  • Meeting agreed billing, time recording and performance targets.
  • Working collaboratively with colleagues to achieve team objectives.
  • Supporting the continued growth and success of the department.
  • Participating in business development and networking initiatives.
  • Contributing to continuous improvement and compliance standards.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a solicitor who is:

  • Admitted to the Roll of Solicitors and holds a current practising certificate.
  • Passionate about criminal defence work.
  • Client-focused and commercially aware.
  • An excellent communicator and advocate.
  • Organised and able to manage competing priorities.
  • Ambitious and motivated to develop their career.
  • A strong team player who enjoys working collaboratively.
  • Committed to delivering outstanding client service.
  • Previous criminal law experience is desirable, whether gained as a paralegal, police station representative, trainee solicitor or qualified solicitor.

About JNP Legal

At JNP Legal, our success has been built on the quality of our people. We believe in creating an environment where talented individuals can thrive, develop and achieve their career ambitions. We invest heavily in training, technology and employee development, ensuring our teams have the support they need to provide exceptional service to clients whilst building rewarding careers. As we continue our growth across South Wales, now is an exciting time to join us.

Apply Today

If you are looking for your next opportunity in criminal law and want to join a firm that will support your development from NQ level through to Duty Solicitor and beyond, we'd love to hear from you. Join JNP Legal and help shape the future of criminal defence in South Wales.

Criminal Defence Solicitor employer: JNP Legal

At JNP Legal, we pride ourselves on being one of South Wales' leading law firms, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for Criminal Defence Solicitors. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, competitive salaries, and clear career development pathways, we empower our team members to thrive through structured training and mentoring. Join us in Merthyr Tydfil to work on diverse cases while enjoying excellent benefits, including fully funded private medical healthcare, as you build a rewarding career in criminal law.

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Contact Details:

JNP Legal Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Defence Solicitor

Criminal Law Knowledge
Client Care
Advocacy Skills
Case Management
Communication Skills
Team Collaboration
Organisational Skills