Crime Solicitor - Maidstone

Simpson Judge Ltd; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading law firm in Maidstone is seeking an ambitious Crime Solicitor to join their dedicated Criminal Defence team. The role offers strong advocacy exposure and a supportive environment to develop your career. The ideal candidate will have experience in criminal defence work and strong advocacy skills. The firm offers a competitive salary, support for accreditation, and clear progression opportunities within a collaborative team.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Support with Duty Solicitor accreditation

Clear progression opportunities

Professional development training

Generous holiday allowance

Qualifications

• Experience in criminal defence work (NQ-5 PQE preferred).
• Confidence attending police stations and conducting client interviews.
• Ability to manage a varied and sometimes urgent caseload.

Responsibilities

• Handle police station attendance and advice.
• Conduct Magistrates' Court advocacy.
• Prepare cases for Crown Court.

Skills

Strong advocacy skills

Excellent communication skills

Client care skills

Proactive working style

Resilience

Job description

Crime Solicitor - Maidstone

Leading Regional Firm * Strong Advocacy Exposure * Supportive, Specialist Team

I'm working exclusively with a well-established and highly regarded law firm in Maidstone that is looking to recruit an ambitious Crime Solicitor to join its dedicated Criminal Defence team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys advocacy, and wants to develop their career within a respected firm that handles a broad range of criminal matters.

The Opportunity

You will join a specialist team dealing with a wide mix of criminal defence work, including:

• Police station attendance and advice
• Magistrates' Court advocacy
• Crown Court case preparation
• Youth Court matters
• Legal Aid work
• General criminal defence including theft, public order, assault, drug offences, motoring offences, and more

The role offers strong exposure to advocacy and excellent support for developing your skills further. Duty accreditation is highly desirable, but the firm will also consider solicitors who are working toward their Police Station Accreditation.

Candidate Requirements

The firm is seeking a solicitor who has:

• Experience in criminal defence work (NQ-5 PQE is ideal, but all levels considered)
• Strong advocacy skills or a clear willingness to develop them
• Confidence attending police stations and conducting client interviews
• The ability to manage a varied and sometimes urgent caseload
• Excellent communication and client‑care skills
• A proactive, resilient working style and a genuine passion for criminal law
• Duty status is an advantage but not essential.

Why This Firm?

This position offers the chance to join a firm with an excellent reputation across Kent, known for its supportive culture and strong criminal law practice. Benefits include:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Support with Duty Solicitor accreditation where applicable
• Clear progression opportunities within a growing department
• Professional development and advocacy training
• Friendly, collaborative team environment
• Generous holiday allowance and modern working practices