Criminal Defence Solicitor

Executive Network Legal Limited; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading legal firm in East Midlands is seeking a newly qualified Solicitor to join their criminal defence team. This role offers the chance to develop practical advocacy skills and manage a varied caseload in a supportive environment. Ideal candidates will be motivated, organised, and eager to progress within the firm. The position includes a competitive salary and benefits, creating a great opportunity for career growth in criminal law.

Benefits

Pension scheme

Generous annual leave allowance

Recognition of exceptional performance

Qualifications

• Eager to build a career in criminal defence.
• Driven to progress within the firm.
• Police Station Accreditation is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage your own caseload under supervision.
• Provide clear and practical advice to clients.
• Work closely with senior Fee Earners and Advocates.

Skills

Tenacious

Well-organised

Motivated

Confidence to take on responsibility

Client care

Education

Newly qualified Solicitor

Job description

Criminal Defence Solicitor, NQ, Derbyshire, Competitive salary £DOE

This is a fantastic opportunity for a newly qualified Solicitor to start their career in criminal defence within a highly regarded and expanding department. The role offers hands‑on experience with a varied caseload, providing the chance to develop practical advocacy skills while learning from experienced colleagues in a supportive and professional environment.

THE ROLE

• Gain broad exposure to a wide range of criminal matters, from initial police station attendances to representation at the Magistrates’ Court.
• Develop invaluable experience and professional skills in criminal defence.
• Work closely with senior Fee Earners and Advocates for guidance and support.
• Manage your own caseload under supervision.
• Ensure clients receive clear, practical and effective advice at every stage of their case.

THE CANDIDATE

• Newly qualified Solicitor eager to build a career in criminal defence.
• Tenacious, well‑organised and motivated, with confidence to take on responsibility.
• Driven to progress within the firm and develop professionally.
• Actively contribute to the growth and success of the department through excellent client care and proactive case management.
• Police Station Accreditation is advantageous but not essential.

THE FIRM

• A modern, client‑focused firm known for delivering clear, practical advice and a transparent, professional service.
• Promotes a supportive and collaborative culture.
• Places quality and client care at the heart of its work.

THE PACKAGE

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Pension scheme and generous annual leave allowance.
• Exceptional performance is recognised and rewarded.
• Work within a supportive, collaborative and professional environment.

eNL will never share your CV with a third party without your express permission. As part of our candidate care process, we aim to respond to all applications in 7 days. If you have not been contacted within this timescale, your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note our advertisements use PQE/salary levels purely as a guide.

At eNL we value diversity and inclusion. We want to attract people at all levels and encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates, whatever your ethnicity, religion, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any characteristics protected by law in the jurisdictions in which we operate.