Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Represent clients in court and provide legal advice during criminal proceedings.
- Company: Join one of the largest Criminal Defence Practices in East London and Kent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional development, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in people's lives while working in a fast-paced legal setting.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor with a current practising certificate; Duty Solicitor status is a plus.
- Other info: Expect flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and travel between locations.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 50000 £ per year.
Criminal Defence Solicitor | Stratford, London and/or Chatham, Kent | Full Time | £38,000 for newly qualified candidates, up to £50,000 for those with recognised PQE and duty status
Our client is one of the largest and leading Criminal Defence Practices in East London and across Kent.
They are seeking a qualified and committed Criminal Defence Solicitor to provide high-quality legal representation and advice to clients appearing in criminal courts and be part of a fee-earning team. The successful candidate will be responsible for representing clients at court, including those in police custody, and ensuring they receive appropriate legal support at all stages of proceedings, and running a caseload.
Please note – The role may require unsocial hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, especially for police station attendance. Travel between court locations and police stations may be required.
Are you the right person for the job?
- Qualified Solicitor with a current practising certificate
- Accredited Duty Solicitor status is a bonus but not essential, but essential to work towards such status
- Some understanding of the criminal justice system and legal aid procedures
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage a demanding caseload
What will your role look like?
- Provide legal advice and representation to clients appearing in magistrates\’ courts
- Attend police stations to represent clients as required
- Undertake advocacy on behalf of clients at all relevant court hearings, including bail applications, remand hearings, and plea hearings
- Participate in the court duty solicitor rota as allocated (if qualified as a Duty Solicitor)
- Maintain accurate and comprehensive case notes, records, and files
- Liaise with clients, courts, police, and other legal professionals
- Ensure compliance with Legal Aid Agency (LAA) requirements and professional conduct rules
- Keep up to date with changes in criminal law, procedure, and legal aid regulations
- Participate in training and continuing professional development (CPD)
What\’s next? It\’s easy! Click “APPLY” now! We can\’t wait to hear from you!
Your data will be handled in line with GDPR.
JBRP1_UKTJ
Criminal Defence Solicitor employer: Talent Finder
Contact Detail:
Talent Finder Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Criminal Defence Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the criminal law field. Attend legal seminars, workshops, or local bar association events to meet solicitors and other legal practitioners. Building relationships can lead to valuable insights and potential job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain practical experience by volunteering or interning at legal aid clinics or organisations that focus on criminal defence. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your understanding of the criminal justice system but also make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and changes in criminal law. Follow relevant legal blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and join online forums. Demonstrating your knowledge of recent developments during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to criminal defence roles. Consider scenarios you might face in court and how you would handle them. Being able to articulate your thought process and approach will showcase your readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Criminal Defence Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Criminal Defence Solicitor. Familiarise yourself with the criminal justice system and legal aid procedures to demonstrate your knowledge in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in criminal law, including any advocacy work or previous roles that involved client representation. Make sure to include your qualifications, practising certificate, and any additional certifications like Duty Solicitor status.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your passion for criminal defence law and your commitment to providing high-quality legal representation. Mention specific experiences that showcase your ability to manage a demanding caseload and work under pressure.
Proofread Your Application: Ensure that your application is free from grammatical errors and typos. A well-written application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in the legal field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Finder
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on your knowledge of criminal law and recent changes in legislation. Being able to discuss current legal issues or landmark cases will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Criminal Defence Solicitor, excellent communication is key. Prepare to showcase your oral and written skills during the interview by articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Showcase Your Case Management Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience managing a caseload. Highlight specific examples where you successfully represented clients, particularly in high-pressure situations, to demonstrate your ability to handle demanding workloads.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and ethical considerations. Think through potential situations you might face in the role and how you would approach them.
