At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent clients in court, manage criminal defence cases, and support senior colleagues.
- Company: Leading regional law firm with a strong reputation in criminal law.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, £500 bonus after probation, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Work-life balance and diverse case exposure across multiple offices.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team focused on integrity and professional growth in criminal defence.
- Qualifications: Qualified Criminal Solicitor (NQ–2+ years PQE) with excellent communication and advocacy skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Criminal Solicitor – Coventry & Leamington | Leading Regional Law Firm
A respected regional firm with a strong reputation in criminal law is looking to expand its Criminal Defence team across its Coventry and Leamington offices. This is an excellent opportunity for a Criminal Solicitor to join a supportive and well-regarded firm that values professionalism, integrity, and staff wellbeing.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a confident and driven Criminal Solicitor (ideally 2+ years PQE, though newly qualified candidates with the right level of training and ambition will also be considered) to manage their own caseload of criminal defence matters, while supporting senior colleagues on more complex and serious cases.
You’ll be joining a friendly, collaborative team with a clear vision: to treat both clients and colleagues with respect, deliver excellence in service, and uphold the highest standards of practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent clients in Magistrates’ Court and Police Stations
- Prepare cases for Crown Court
- Act as an advocate in court across a variety of matters
- Participate in the Duty Solicitor scheme
- Provide police station representation (including out-of-hours)
- Travel as required to other offices, courts, and police stations across the region
- Work to professional and internal quality standards, targets and billing expectations
- Support business development and client retention through excellent client care and reputation
Candidate Profile
- Qualified Criminal Solicitor (NQ–2+ years PQE)
- Accredited Duty Solicitor (preferred)
- Experience managing a full criminal defence caseload
- Excellent communication, organisation, and advocacy skills
- Strong working knowledge of Criminal Law and legal aid processes
- Competent with legal IT systems
- Able to work independently and as part of a wider team
- Higher Rights of Audience (desirable but not essential)
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
- £500 bonus after successful completion of probation (for direct applicants)
- Supportive team culture with a genuine focus on work-life balance
- Ongoing training and career development opportunities
- Opportunity to work across multiple offices and a diverse range of cases
How to Apply
If you are looking to build your career in criminal defence with a firm that values integrity, collaboration, and professional growth, we would love to hear from you.
Please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and salary expectations to: marina.pongourou@simpsonjudge.co.uk
Crime Duty Solicitor in Leicester employer: Simpson Judge
Join a leading regional law firm in Coventry and Leamington that prioritises professionalism, integrity, and staff wellbeing. With a supportive team culture and a commitment to work-life balance, this firm offers ongoing training and career development opportunities, allowing you to thrive in your role as a Criminal Solicitor while managing a diverse caseload and contributing to meaningful client outcomes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Crime Duty Solicitor in Leicester
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
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We think you need these skills to ace Crime Duty Solicitor in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Simpson Judge, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Simpson Judge and the specific role of Crime Duty Solicitor. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Simpson Judge’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simpson Judge
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Simpson Judge.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Simpson Judge.
