Criminal Defence Lawyer 3-5 PQE – High-Impact Matters

Anakin Seal Legal; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Anakin Seal Legal is seeking an experienced criminal defence solicitor to join its Crime & Regulatory team in London or Manchester with regular presence in London. You will manage a varied caseload from police station advice to trial preparation and advocacy in Magistrates' Court, with opportunities to handle Crown Court matters.

The role emphasises technical excellence, client care, and collaboration with senior team members on high-value cases in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Approximately 3-5 years' PQE in criminal defence.
• Magistrates' Court advocacy experience.
• Experience in Crown Court case preparation.
• Police Station Accreditation.
• Experience in a private practice environment (Legal 500-recognised firm or similar).
• Excellent written communication skills for persuasive submissions.

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied criminal defence caseload from initial advice through to trial preparation.
• Provide representation and advocacy in the Magistrates' Court.
• Prepare complex Crown Court matters, including evidence review, legal research, case strategy development, and pre-trial preparation.
• Deliver expert advice to clients at the police station and throughout proceedings.
• Draft high-quality submissions, representations, applications, and correspondence.
• Handle high-pressure matters with professionalism and empathy, collaborating with senior team members on high-value cases.

Skills

Criminal defence

Magistrates' Court advocacy

Crown Court preparation/advocacy

Legal research

Written submissions

Police Station Accreditation

Job description

Anakin Seal Legal is seeking an experienced criminal defence solicitor to join its Crime & Regulatory team in London or Manchester with regular presence in London. You will manage a varied caseload from police station advice to trial preparation and advocacy in Magistrates' Court, with opportunities to handle Crown Court matters.

The role emphasises technical excellence, client care, and collaboration with senior team members on high-value cases in a supportive environment.