At a Glance
- Tasks: Make independent decisions on cases and present them in court.
- Company: Join a national public sector authority at the heart of criminal justice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, flexible working, and extensive training.
- Other info: Clear progression routes into senior roles and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with structured support and real courtroom experience.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister; LPC/SQE/Bar Training completed.
The predicted salary is between 44520 - 44520 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity to join a national public sector prosecuting authority in an entry-level Prosecutor role, based in locations local to you. It's ideal for newly qualified lawyers or lawyers looking to retrain into criminal law, with no prior criminal experience required. You'll receive a comprehensive induction, structured training and early advocacy experience in the Magistrates' Court.
Client Details
You'll be joining a national public body at the heart of the criminal justice system, responsible for making fair, independent decisions on prosecutions across England and Wales. The organisation is known for its excellent training, clear career pathways and commitment to public service. You'll work alongside experienced prosecutors, investigators and legal professionals, gaining exposure to a wide variety of cases and developing into a confident courtroom advocate.
Description
The Criminal Lawyer will be responsible for:
- Making independent decisions on whether cases should proceed or be discontinued
- Advising police and investigators on evidential and legal issues
- Preparing and presenting prosecution cases in the Magistrates' Court
- Communicating decisions clearly to courts, police, witnesses and defendants
- Working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary legal team
Profile
You will be:
- A qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a valid practising certificate (CILEx candidates with advocacy rights are also eligible)
- Completed LPC / SQE / Bar Training or equivalent
- Motivated, intellectually strong and committed to public service
- Keen to develop advocacy skills and courtroom confidence
- Comfortable making decisions and communicating them clearly
- Ready to build criminal law expertise quickly with structured support
Job Offer
Salary: £44,520
Pension: Generous public sector pension up to 28%
Leave: 25 days rising to 30 after 5 years, plus an additional privilege day
Enhanced parental leave
Flexibility: Hybrid and flexible working options, family-friendly policies
Training: Structured four-month induction plus ongoing development
Progression: Clear routes into senior prosecutor, advocacy and legal management roles
Criminal Lawyer - NQ+ in England employer: Michael Page Legal
Contact Detail:
Michael Page Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Lawyer - NQ+ in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow lawyers, attend legal events, and connect with professionals in criminal law. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can offer valuable advice.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or colleagues, be ready to talk about your passion for criminal law and what makes you a great fit for the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow organisations in the legal sector, engage with their posts, and share your insights. It’s a great way to get noticed and show your enthusiasm for the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you prepare for interviews and showcase your skills. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on new opportunities in the criminal law space.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Lawyer - NQ+ in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Criminal Lawyer role. Highlight any relevant legal training or advocacy experience, even if it’s from other areas of law.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for criminal law and public service. Share why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to the team.
Showcase Your Decision-Making Skills: Since the role involves making independent decisions, be sure to include examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to analyse situations and make sound judgments.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page Legal
✨Know Your Criminal Law Basics
Brush up on the fundamentals of criminal law before your interview. Familiarise yourself with key concepts, recent case law, and the role of a prosecutor. This will not only show your enthusiasm for the position but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the field.
✨Showcase Your Decision-Making Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you had to make tough decisions. Highlight how you approached these situations, the factors you considered, and the outcomes. This is crucial as the role involves making independent decisions on whether cases should proceed.
✨Practice Your Advocacy Skills
Even if you’re new to courtroom advocacy, practice speaking clearly and confidently about legal issues. You might be asked to present a mock case or discuss how you would handle certain scenarios. Use this opportunity to showcase your communication skills and ability to articulate legal arguments.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
This role is all about serving the public and ensuring justice. Be prepared to discuss why you want to work in this sector and how your values align with the organisation's mission. Showing genuine passion for public service can set you apart from other candidates.