At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage hearings and trials, providing advocacy services for a supportive legal team.
- Company: Join one of Europe's largest in-house legal services teams.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a modern work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns encouraged; part-time options available.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact in the community through high-quality legal work.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor/Barrister/FILEX with excellent advocacy skills.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 64800 £ per year.
Location: Birmingham
Hours: Permanent (36 hours - part time considered)
Salary: £54,495 - £64,811
Application deadline: 28/02/2026
Sellick Partnership is delighted to be working exclusively with one of the largest in-house legal services teams in Europe. If you are an experienced criminal advocate seeking your next challenge, I am keen to have a conversation!
The current vacancy for a Principal Advocate - Criminal will see you manage hearings and trials on behalf of your colleagues. The lawyers you will work with are friendly and supportive, with a strong team ethic. The role will involve frequent travel to the Magistrate's Court in central Birmingham, so applicants must be based locally to ensure court times are adhered to.
Applicants will have higher rights of audience (or be willing to obtain these) so all hearings can be covered in-house. You must be able to demonstrate excellent advocacy skills and experience and thorough knowledge of relevant courts and tribunals procedure.
As the new Principal Advocate - Criminal you will be an integral part of this in-house legal team, delivering advocacy services and support to the team. Applicants from a range of legal backgrounds will be considered. This role would suit someone with a defence background from perhaps the CPS or a private firm. Conversely, you may be a seasoned local government prosecutor ready for your next challenge and to focus on your passion - advocacy at court!
Daily duties will include:
- To take instructions from colleagues as an alternative to counsel.
- Acting as a lead legal advisor to ensure compliance with statutory duties and obligations, to protect the best interests of the Council.
- Appearing as advocate in the higher courts representing the Council, undertaking a wide range of hearings.
- Providing evidential strengths and weaknesses in a case and advising on appropriate next steps or options.
You will be a positive and highly motivated person who is confident, versatile and innovative. This post will focus on work relating to enforcement and regulatory law. The court work involves prosecuting on matters such as planning, building regulations, environmental health, and licensing, as well as regulatory and criminal litigation.
You will be a strong communicator with excellent advocacy skills. You will be directly involved in high-quality legal work and make a positive difference to the community. This is a fantastic opportunity for an established lawyer with a good understanding of enforcement/regulatory law, as well as the political and economic environment in general, to join a progressive organisation.
This post advises on public law and regulatory issues in connection with a range of powers exercised by the local authority. As such, it is key that the post holder is able to not simply follow the letter of the law but understands the need to work within the constraints that come from working in local government.
Flexible and non-traditional working patterns are encouraged, and you can work on a full-time or part-time basis. You will be a qualified Solicitor/Barrister/FILEX with a current Practising Certificate. You will ideally possess higher rights of audience (or be willing to obtain these). You will join a sizable team of lawyers and support staff.
In return for your experience, commitment, and motivation, you will enjoy working in a modern environment, with a competitive salary and benefits package.
For more information on this opportunity, please contact Kate Jasper in our Manchester office or apply today! Sellick Partnership is proud to be an inclusive and accessible recruitment business and we support applications from candidates of all backgrounds and circumstances.
Please note, our advertisements use years' experience, hourly rates, and salary levels purely as a guide and we assess applications based on the experience and skills evidenced on the CV. For information on how your personal details may be used by Sellick Partnership, please review our data processing notice on our website.
Principal Advocate - Criminal Law in Birmingham employer: Sellick Partnership Limited - Public Sector
Sellick Partnership is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture where experienced legal professionals can thrive. With a focus on advocacy and community impact, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements, competitive salaries, and opportunities for professional growth within one of the largest in-house legal services teams in Europe, all while being based in the vibrant city of Birmingham.
Contact Details:
Sellick Partnership Limited - Public Sector Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Advocate - Criminal Law in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might know about opportunities at Sellick Partnership. A friendly chat can often lead to insider info that could give you the edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your advocacy skills. Think of it as a mini-trial where you need to present your case convincingly. Get a mate to throw some tough questions your way and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for advocacy! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, let them know why you love what you do. Your enthusiasm can be just as important as your qualifications.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Sellick Partnership.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Advocate - Criminal Law in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Principal Advocate role. Highlight your advocacy skills and any experience in criminal law, as this will show us you’re a great fit for the position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about advocacy and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of enforcement and regulatory law!
Showcase Your Advocacy Experience:We want to see your advocacy skills in action! Include specific examples of cases you've worked on, particularly those involving hearings or trials. This will help us understand your approach and effectiveness in the courtroom.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us without a hitch, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sellick Partnership Limited - Public Sector
✨Know Your Advocacy Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your advocacy skills and relevant court procedures. Be prepared to discuss specific cases where you've successfully represented clients, highlighting your approach and the outcomes. This will show your depth of knowledge and experience in criminal law.
✨Understand the Role and Team Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with the structure of the legal team and the types of cases they handle. Show that you understand the importance of collaboration and how you can contribute positively to the team ethic. Mention any previous experiences where teamwork led to successful outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Regulatory Law
Since this role involves enforcement and regulatory law, be ready to discuss your understanding of these areas. Prepare examples of how you've navigated complex legal frameworks in past roles, especially in local government or similar settings.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's approach to advocacy and how they support their legal team. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your professional values and goals.
