Crime Solicitor

William James Recruitment; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 38,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible and hybrid working

Modern city centre office

Ongoing training and development

Career progression

Retail and gym discounts

Supportive environment

Job summary

William James Recruitment is seeking a Criminal Defence Solicitor to join a Manchester crime team. You will manage a varied caseload, attend court hearings, and provide advocacy and client-facing support in a collaborative environment.

The role offers hybrid working arrangements, ongoing training, and clear opportunities for career progression within a well‑established practice in Manchester city centre.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor with experience in criminal law.
• Strong understanding of criminal procedure and evidence.
• Excellent advocacy and client-facing skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of criminal defence matters for clients.
• Attend court hearings and police station representations as required.
• Undertake advocacy in Magistrates' Court with support and development.
• Prepare legal advice, correspondence and case documentation.
• Review evidence and assist with case preparation.
• Maintain client and court communications and deadlines.

Skills

Advocacy

Client representation

Communication

Time management

Education

Qualified Solicitor

Tools

Case management systems

Job description

Criminal Defence Solicitor - Manchester City Centre - Excellent Benefits

We are working with a well‑established law firm to recruit a Criminal Defence Solicitor to join its growing Crime team in Manchester.

This is an excellent opportunity for a solicitor with experience in criminal law to develop their career within a supportive and collaborative environment, handling a varied caseload and gaining valuable advocacy and client‑facing experience.

The role offers exposure to a broad range of criminal defence matters, with opportunities to develop your advocacy skills and work alongside experienced practitioners.

The Role:

• Manage a varied caseload of criminal defence matters for both privately and publicly funded clients
• Attend court hearings and represent clients at police stations where required
• Undertake advocacy in the Magistrates' Court, with appropriate support and development
• Prepare legal advice, correspondence and case documentation
• Review evidence and assist with case preparation
• Liaise with clients, courts, counsel and other relevant parties
• Support senior lawyers on more complex matters
• Manage deadlines and maintain accurate case records
• Ensure work is carried out in accordance with professional and regulatory requirements
• Contribute to the wider team and continued development of the practice

About You:

• Qualified Solicitor with previous experience in criminal law
• Strong understanding of criminal law and court procedures
• Good advocacy and client representation skills
• Excellent communication and client care abilities
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Able to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
• Confident using IT and case management systems
• Proactive and motivated with a collaborative approach
• Comfortable working independently while contributing effectively as part of a team

The Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Modern Manchester city centre office
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Clear opportunities for career progression
• Exposure to a varied and interesting criminal caseload
• Support and mentoring from experienced practitioners
• Retail and gym membership discounts
• Supportive and collaborative working environment