Criminal Defence Solicitor

Salem Area Chamber of Commerce; London; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Criminal Defence Practice in East London is hiring a Criminal Defence Solicitor. The role involves representing clients in court, providing legal advice, and managing a demanding caseload. Candidates must be qualified solicitors with strong communication skills, and an understanding of the criminal justice system. The position may require working unsocial hours and attending various court locations for representation.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor with current practising certificate required.
• Understanding of legal aid procedures beneficial.
• Working towards Accredited Duty Solicitor status is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and representation to clients in court.
• Attend police stations to represent clients as needed.
• Undertake advocacy at court hearings and maintain accurate case notes.

Skills

Excellent oral communication

Excellent written communication

Ability to work under pressure

Understanding of criminal justice system

Education

Qualified Solicitor with current practising certificate

Accredited Duty Solicitor status

Job description

Criminal Defence Solicitor | Stratford, London and/or Chatham, Kent | Full Time | £38,000 for newly qualified candidates, up to £50,000 for those with recognised PQE and duty status

Our client is one of the largest and leading Criminal Defence Practices in East London and across Kent.

They are seeking a qualified and committed Criminal Defence Solicitor to provide high-quality legal representation and advice to clients appearing in criminal courts and be part of a fee-earning team. The successful candidate will be responsible for representing clients at court, including those in police custody, and ensuring they receive appropriate legal support at all stages of proceedings, and running a caseload.

Please note - The role may require unsocial hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, especially for police station attendance. Travel between court locations and police stations may be required.

Are you the right person for the job?

• Qualified Solicitor with a current practising certificate
• Accredited Duty Solicitor status is a bonus but not essential, but essential to work towards such status
• Some understanding of the criminal justice system and legal aid procedures
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage a demanding caseload
  
  

What will your role look like?

• Provide legal advice and representation to clients appearing in magistrates' courts
• Attend police stations to represent clients as required
• Undertake advocacy on behalf of clients at all relevant court hearings, including bail applications, remand hearings, and plea hearings
• Participate in the court duty solicitor rota as allocated (if qualified as a Duty Solicitor)
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive case notes, records, and files
• Liaise with clients, courts, police, and other legal professionals
• Ensure compliance with Legal Aid Agency (LAA) requirements and professional conduct rules
• Keep up to date with changes in criminal law, procedure, and legal aid regulations
• Participate in training and continuing professional development (CPD)
  
  

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