At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice and representation in criminal defence cases.
- Company: Join a respected criminal defence practice with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a varied caseload and excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in clients' lives while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with at least 3 years PQE and Duty Solicitor accreditation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 45000 € per year.
Location: Redditch
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
Salary: £30,000 – £45,000 (dependent on experience)
Established in 2022, our client is a specialist criminal defence practice providing expert legal advice and representation to clients across the UK. The firm has built a strong reputation for delivering professional, approachable, and client-focused legal services, offering support through every stage of criminal proceedings.
The Role
Our client is seeking a qualified and experienced Criminal Duty Solicitor to join a busy and well-established specialist criminal defence practice based in Redditch. The successful candidate will become part of a supportive and experienced legal team providing high-quality representation and advice across all stages of criminal proceedings. The role involves representing clients at police stations and courts, managing a varied caseload, and contributing to the continued success and development of the department. Duty Solicitor status and membership of the Court and 24-hour Police Station rota are essential.
Key responsibilities
- Providing legal advice and assistance to clients at all stages of criminal proceedings
- Attending police stations to represent clients as part of the 24-hour rota
- Representing clients in Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court proceedings
- Managing a caseload in line with SRA Code of Conduct, LAA Contract requirements, SQM standards, and internal quality procedures
- Taking detailed client instructions and providing clear, practical legal advice
- Conducting legal research and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of criminal law
- Undertaking advocacy and case preparation for court hearings and trials
- Assisting in appeals against conviction and/or sentence where required
- Supporting and supervising administrative staff where appropriate
- Contributing to the development and improvement of office procedures
- Ensuring compliance with confidentiality, equality, and diversity policies
- Maintaining a safe, professional, and efficient working environment
Requirements
Essential
- Qualified Solicitor with a minimum of 3 years PQE
- Current Duty Solicitor accreditation and eligibility for rota membership
- Strong experience in criminal law practice
- Proven experience in:
- Police station representation
- Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court advocacy
- Excellent communication, advocacy, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage a busy caseload
- Strong understanding of SRA, LAA, and SQM compliance requirements
- Full UK driving licence
- Competent IT and computer literacy skills
- Strong understanding of confidentiality and professional obligations
Desirable
- Experience supervising junior staff or administrative teams
- Ability to contribute to training, knowledge sharing, and team development
- Strong organisational and time management skills
What’s in It For You
- Opportunity to join a respected and well-established criminal defence firm
- Supportive and experienced team environment
- Varied and challenging caseload
- Opportunity for professional growth and development
- Active role within a busy and reputable legal practice
- Annual leave: 21 days plus bank holidays
Your data will be handled in line with GDPR.
Duty Solicitor in Brighton employer: Talent Finder
Join a respected and well-established criminal defence firm in Redditch, where you will be part of a supportive and experienced team dedicated to providing high-quality legal representation. With opportunities for professional growth and a varied caseload, this role offers a meaningful career path in a dynamic environment that values client-focused service and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Duty Solicitor in Brighton
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with other legal professionals! Attend local law events, join online forums, or even hit up social media groups. The more people you know in the field, the better your chances of hearing about job openings.
✨Ace the Interview
When you land that interview, be ready to showcase your skills and experience. Prepare answers for common questions, but also think about how you can demonstrate your passion for criminal law. Remember, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it!
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. A little follow-up can go a long way in making a positive impression.
✨Apply Through Us
We’ve got your back! Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Duty Solicitor role. We’re here to help you every step of the way, so let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Duty Solicitor in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Duty Solicitor role. Highlight your experience in criminal law, especially your work at police stations and courts. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about criminal defence and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it professional but let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on specific cases or situations where you've made a difference. We love seeing examples of your advocacy and client representation skills in action!
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 any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Finder
✨Know Your Criminal Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in criminal law before your interview. Being able to discuss recent cases or changes in legislation will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Demonstrate Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to showcase your advocacy skills during the interview. You might be asked to role-play a scenario or discuss how you would handle a specific case. Practising your responses can help you articulate your approach clearly and confidently.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Firm's Values
Research the firm’s reputation and values. Understanding their client-focused approach will allow you to align your answers with what they prioritise, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you. Consider asking about their approach to professional development or team dynamics.
