Criminal Defence Solicitor

STOCK MORAN SWALWELL SOLICITORS of WIGAN; Wigan; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Stock Moran Swalwell Solicitors, a specialist criminal defence firm in Wigan, is seeking a committed Criminal Defence Solicitor to join the team. You will manage cases from initial instruction to conclusion, advise clients at police stations and in court, and work with colleagues, counsel and agencies to deliver robust representation.

The role requires a Solicitor of England and Wales with current practising certificate, strong knowledge of criminal law and procedure, and prior defence

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor of England and Wales with current practising certificate.
• Sound knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure and the Criminal Justice System.
• Experience in criminal defence, including police station advice and court representation.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a supportive legal team while managing responsibilities independently.

Responsibilities

• Advising and representing clients in criminal investigations and proceedings.
• Providing legal advice and representation at police stations.
• Preparing for and attending court hearings.
• Managing a varied criminal defence caseload from initial instruction through to resolution.
• Interviewing clients, taking instructions, assessing evidence and advising on legal options and case strategy.
• Preparing case papers, statements, applications, legal submissions and other relevant documentation.
• Liaising with counsel, the police, the Crown Prosecution Service, courts and other relevant agencies.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case files and ensuring compliance with professional, regulatory and legal aid requirements, where applicable.

Skills

Criminal defence

Solicitor

Client counseling

Court appearances

Education

Solicitor qualification (England & Wales)

Job description

Stock Moran Swalwell Solicitors is a specialist criminal defence firm based in the heart of Wigan, who have been representing clients across the North West of England for over 30 years. We are committed to providing high-quality, accessible and effective criminal defence services, supporting clients throughout every stage of the Criminal Justice System. Our approach is built on experience, professionalism, empathy, honesty and transparency, ensuring that every client receives clear advice and dedicated representation when they need it most.

Our team is led by 2 hugely experienced partners both of which are higher court advocates (criminal). They are supported by 2 duty solicitors and supervised graduate trainee solicitors who regularly represent clients at police stations and in court. We work collaboratively to deliver a consistent, client-focused service and achieve the best possible outcomes for those we represent.

We are seeking a committed and capable Criminal Defence Solicitor to join our team. This is an opportunity to develop your career within a specialist criminal defence practice, handling a varied caseload and providing practical, robust and empathetic legal support to clients.

The successful candidate will manage criminal defence cases from initial instruction through to conclusion, advise and represent clients at police stations and in court, and work closely with colleagues, counsel and other relevant agencies. You will be confident dealing with clients from a wide range of backgrounds, able to work effectively under pressure, and committed to maintaining high professional and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Advising and representing clients in criminal investigations and proceedings.
• Providing legal advice and representation at police stations.
• Preparing for and attending court hearings.
• Managing a varied criminal defence caseload from initial instruction through to resolution.
• Interviewing clients, taking instructions, assessing evidence and advising on legal options and case strategy.
• Preparing case papers, statements, applications, legal submissions and other relevant documentation.
• Liaising with counsel, the police, the Crown Prosecution Service, courts and other relevant agencies.
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case files and ensuring compliance with professional, regulatory and legal aid requirements, where applicable.

We are looking for a solicitor who is passionate about criminal defence and committed to delivering an excellent standard of legal representation.

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor of England and Wales with a current practising certificate.
• A sound knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure and the Criminal Justice System.
• Experience in criminal defence, ideally including police station advice and court representation.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a supportive legal team while managing responsibilities independently.

At Stock Moran Swalwell Solicitors, we recognise that clients often approach us at some of the most difficult and uncertain times in their lives. We value solicitors who combine sound legal knowledge and strong advocacy with empathy, integrity and a genuine commitment to their clients.

If you are looking to join a specialist criminal defence firm where teamwork, professional standards and client care are central to the way we work, we would welcome your application.