At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage your own caseload and represent clients in court.
- Company: Smith Partnership, a leading and progressive law firm in the Midlands.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a respected team and make a real difference in criminal law.
- Qualifications: Law degree, at least one year PQE in criminal law, and Police Station Accreditation.
- Other info: Access to ongoing training and work with a diverse client base.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Smith Partnership is a leading law firm in the Midlands. A forward‐thinking and progressive firm employing around 200 staff across five offices. We are renowned for our comprehensive legal services and exceptional client care.
Role overview
An opportunity has arisen at our Leicester office, for a Criminal Solicitor or Criminal Defence Advocate with Duty Solicitor Status to join our Crime team. The successful candidate will be joining a long‐established department with a highly respected team of Criminal Defence Solicitors. The ideal candidate would be a Duty Solicitor with at least one year's post‐qualification experience (PQE) in criminal law dealing with a wide range of cases before the Magistrates Court and Youth Court. Some experience of Crown Court work would be welcomed.
You will manage your own caseload and attend clients at Police Stations and Magistrates' Courts in and around the Leicestershire area.
Key requirements
- A degree in Law, a relevant field, or equivalent experience.
- At least one year PQE in criminal law.
- Police Station Accreditation.
- Previous experience in a similar role.
- Ability to work on the Police Station out‐of‐hours rota.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Willingness to travel to different court centres and police stations across Leicester.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
A competitive salary and benefits package.
A supportive and collaborative working environment.
Opportunities for career progression and professional development.
Access to ongoing training and development programmes.
A chance to work with a diverse and prestigious client base.
Next Steps
If you are a driven and dedicated individual looking to advance your career within a progressive and growing law firm, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter detailing your suitability for the role to Recruitment@smithpartnership.co.uk by 5th December. For further details please contact the HR team on: 01332 225225.
Solicitor - Crime - Leicester employer: Smith Partnership
Contact Detail:
Smith Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor - Crime - Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend legal events, seminars, and workshops in Leicester to meet fellow solicitors and potential employers. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your online presence sorted! Update your LinkedIn profile and connect with people in the legal field. Share articles or insights related to criminal law to show off your expertise and passion.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews can help you feel more confident when discussing your experience in criminal law. We recommend getting a friend or mentor to help you out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor - Crime - Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of a Criminal Solicitor. Highlight your relevant experience, especially your PQE in criminal law and any specific cases you've handled that align with what Smith Partnership is looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Crime team. Mention your Duty Solicitor Status and how your skills can contribute to the firm's exceptional client care.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are key, make sure your application reflects this. Keep your language clear and professional, and double-check for any typos or errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets to the right place and shows your enthusiasm for joining our progressive firm!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith Partnership
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on key criminal law concepts and recent case law. Being able to discuss relevant legal principles confidently will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Demonstrate Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous roles that highlight your experience in handling cases, especially in Magistrates and Youth Courts. This will help you illustrate your capability to manage a caseload effectively.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is crucial in law, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might even want to role-play common interview questions with a friend to refine your responses.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm’s approach to criminal defence and their expectations for the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.