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- Tasks: Manage your own caseload and assist partners in criminal law cases.
- Company: Top-tier criminal defence practice located by Chancery Lane.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, 25 days' holiday, performance bonuses, and vibrant office culture.
- Why this job: Join a recognised firm and make a real difference in clients' lives.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with criminal defence experience and strong communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are a criminal defence practice based by Chancery Lane, recognised as Tier 2 in Legal 500, Band 2 in Chambers & Partners, and featured in the Times Best Law Firms 2026. We are looking for a supervising solicitor to join our team. You will work with both legally aided and private clients across all aspects of criminal law, managing your own caseload and assisting the partners with theirs.
What We’re Offering
- Salary: Depending on experience
- Flexible hybrid working policy
- 25 days' holiday plus a birthday day off
- All bank holidays
- Performance bonus scheme
- Standard hours: 9.30am–5.30pm (plus out-of-hours rota)
- Smart, vibrant office by Chancery Lane with regular social events
The Role
You will be responsible for:
- Fulfilling the legal aid contract requirements to be a supervising solicitor, to include:
- Attending the magistrates' court and police station (duty status not required)
- Supervising and reviewing files for several of the firm’s legal aid solicitors/paralegals
- Assisting with new enquiries, assessing and determining suitability for private or legal aid representation
- Onboarding new clients
- Managing your own caseload, preparing case files, ensuring thorough case preparation and compliance with Legal Aid Agency and Lexcel requirements
- Liaising with clients and third parties in the criminal justice system
- Assisting the partners with their caseloads
- Taking part in the out-of-hours rota
What We’re Looking For
- A qualified solicitor with criminal defence and advocacy experience
- Knowledge and experience of legal aid procedures
- Experience or enthusiasm for working with privately paying clients
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritise workloads, and maintain attention to detail under pressure
- A collaborative team player who works well with colleagues, clients, and external professionals
- Commitment to upholding high ethical standards and confidentiality in legal practice
- Keenness to contribute to the firm’s marketing and networking strategy
Interested?
If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please send your CV and covering letter to our Practice Manager, Terrie O’Connor - t.oconnor@sgkllp.com
Deadline 28 February 2026, with interviews to follow the week after, either in person or on MS Teams.
Criminal Solicitor employer: Shaw Graham Kersh LLP
Contact Detail:
Shaw Graham Kersh LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, attend events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for a new role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its recent cases. Show us that you’re genuinely interested in our work and how you can contribute. Tailor your answers to highlight your experience in criminal law and legal aid procedures.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable discussing your caseload management and client interactions. The more you rehearse, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to shine!
✨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 us you’re serious about joining our team at Chancery Lane.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match what we're looking for in a Criminal Solicitor. Highlight your criminal defence experience and any relevant legal aid work to catch our eye!
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 you can contribute to our team. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a solicitor, communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly and effectively. This will show us you're ready for the fast-paced environment we thrive in.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest 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 Shaw Graham Kersh LLP
✨Know Your Criminal Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in criminal law, especially those relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with legal aid procedures and recent case law that could come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a solicitor, communication is key. Prepare to demonstrate your ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly and concisely. You might even want to practice answering common interview questions with a friend to refine your delivery.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific cases or situations where you've successfully managed a caseload or worked with clients. Be ready to discuss these examples in detail, highlighting your problem-solving skills and how you maintained high ethical standards.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's approach to legal aid, their team dynamics, or their marketing strategies. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
