Criminal Defence Lawyer

Brandon James Ltd; London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading legal firm in London is seeking an experienced Criminal Defence Lawyer at Mid Associate or Manager level. This permanent role offers exposure to complex criminal cases, professional growth opportunities, and a supportive environment, ideal for dedicated solicitors looking to advance their career in criminal defence law.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Pension scheme

Professional development support

Competitive salary

Access to high-quality, complex casework

Clear progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor with at least 3 years’ post-qualification experience in criminal law.
• Strong advocacy skills and confident case handling.
• Ability to work independently under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage caseload of criminal defence matters from start to finish.
• Lead on case strategy and liaise with clients and enforcement agencies.
• Supervise junior lawyers and contribute to business development initiatives.

Skills

Advocacy skills

Case handling

Attention to detail

Client-focused approach

Education

Qualified solicitor (England & Wales)

Duty Solicitor accreditation

Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal)

Job description

A highly regarded professional services firm is seeking an experienced Criminal Defence Lawyer at Mid Associate or Manager level to join their established legal team in London. This is a permanent opportunity offering exposure to complex and high-profile criminal matters across a wide client base. The successful Criminal Defence Lawyer will be working within a supportive and forward-thinking environment, where professional growth is encouraged, and quality of work is paramount.

This role is ideally suited to a Criminal Defence Lawyer with a strong background in handling serious criminal cases, including fraud, white-collar crime, and general criminal litigation. The firm is known for its thorough and strategic approach to legal defence, making this an exciting opportunity for a Criminal Defence Lawyer looking to make a meaningful impact and further their career in criminal law.

The Criminal Defence Lawyer’s role

As a Criminal Defence Lawyer, you will manage your own caseload of criminal defence matters from start to finish. You will be expected to lead on case strategy, liaise with clients and enforcement agencies, and prepare cases for hearings and trial. Work may include regulatory investigations, serious fraud, and general crime, with opportunities to support on more complex, high-value matters.

You will collaborate with colleagues across the team, supervise junior lawyers where required, and contribute to maintaining the firm’s reputation for excellence in criminal defence. There will also be scope to support business development initiatives within the department.

The Criminal Defence Lawyer

To be considered for this Criminal Defence Lawyer role, you must be a qualified solicitor (England & Wales) with at least 3 years’ post-qualification experience in criminal law. A valid Duty Solicitor accreditation is highly desirable, and Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal) would be advantageous.

You should demonstrate strong advocacy skills, confident case handling, and the ability to work independently under pressure. Attention to detail and a client-focused approach are essential.

In Return?

• Competitive salary of £65,000 – £85,000

• Private healthcare, pension scheme, and other benefits

• Access to high-quality, complex casework

• Clear progression opportunities and professional development support

If this job sounds ideal for you, please do not hesitate to get in touch.