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- 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 gaining invaluable legal experience.
- 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.
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.
- 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.
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 who can provide insights and potentially refer you to job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain practical experience by volunteering or interning at legal aid clinics or organisations that focus on criminal defence. This will not only enhance your understanding of the criminal justice system but also strengthen your CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on recent developments in criminal law and legal aid procedures. Follow relevant legal blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and join online forums to engage with current discussions and trends in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to criminal defence. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the legal aid system and how you would handle specific scenarios that may arise in court.
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: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your qualifications, any previous roles in criminal law, and your ability to manage a demanding caseload.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for criminal law and your commitment to providing high-quality legal representation. Mention specific experiences that showcase your communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and presented professionally.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent Finder
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on the latest developments in criminal law and legal aid regulations. Being well-versed in these areas will not only demonstrate your commitment but also show that you are proactive about staying informed.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Criminal Defence Solicitor, excellent oral and written communication skills are crucial. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with clients and other legal professionals in past roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Ability to Handle Pressure
This role requires managing a demanding caseload and working under pressure. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated high-pressure situations in your previous work.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-life scenarios. Think about past cases or hypothetical situations where you had to make quick decisions and how you handled them.
