Description
Duty Solicitor
Location: St Albans/Bromley/Margate
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum
Job Type: Full-time
The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Duty Solicitor to join a busy and growing Criminal Defence team based in St Albans, Bromley and Margate. This role offers the opportunity to handle a varied criminal caseload, represent clients at police stations and in court, and develop your career within a supportive legal environment.
The successful candidate will be committed to access to justice and passionate about delivering high-quality legal representation to clients requiring publicly funded legal services.
Key Responsibilities
- Represent clients detained at police stations, providing clear advice and effective legal representation.
- Manage a varied criminal defence caseload covering a broad range of offences.
- Undertake advocacy in the Magistrates’ Court, including summary trials.
- Attend Crown Court hearings where qualified to do so through Higher Rights of Audience.
- Provide professional, practical advice and maintain high standards of client care.
- Manage cases efficiently, ensuring deadlines and court requirements are met.
- Maintain accurate case records and use case management systems effectively.
- Work independently while contributing positively to the wider team.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
- Solicitor qualification with at least one year’s post-qualification experience in criminal law.
- Criminal Duty Solicitor accreditation, preferably; candidates without accreditation must be willing to obtain it.
- Strong advocacy, communication and client-care skills.
- Experience managing a demanding caseload with minimal supervision.
- Confidence working independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Good IT skills and familiarity with case management systems.
- A pragmatic, professional and positive approach to work.
- A genuine commitment to publicly funded legal services and access to justice.
- The ability to meet tight deadlines and remain calm under pressure.
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary: Up to £50,000 per annum, depending on experience.
- A positive, supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Opportunities to develop specialist criminal defence experience.
- Professional development and career progression opportunities.
- The opportunity to work alongside experienced legal professionals.
- A culture that encourages internal progression and development.
Interested
If you are interested in the role please contact Ellie on 01904 571760