Criminal Duty Solicitor - Kent

BWF Legal Recruitment; England; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable law firm in the UK is seeking a Criminal Duty Solicitor to join their high-performing criminal defence department. The successful candidate will manage their own caseload, represent clients in serious crime cases, and conduct in-depth client interviews. Candidates must demonstrate strong advocacy skills and be capable of managing high-pressure situations. This role offers flexible working options and clear progression opportunities within a supportive team culture.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous out-of-hours rates

Flexible working options

Clear progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Criminal Duty Solicitor or similar role.
• Confidence in court and ability to advocate effectively.
• Well-organised with the ability to manage a busy caseload.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients at police stations and courts.
• Manage a diverse caseload including serious offences.
• Analyse evidence and prepare defence strategies.

Skills

Handling complex and serious crime cases

Strong advocacy skills

Managing high-pressure situations

Excellent client care skills

Job description

Our client is a long-established and highly regarded law firm with a standout criminal department. Known for their work in high-profile and complex matters, they offer their solicitors a platform to develop a strong client base and build a respected career in criminal defence. The firm's culture is built on support, autonomy and professional integrity.

We are looking for a Criminal Duty Solicitor to become an integral part of a high-performing criminal defence department within a respected and expanding legal practice. You will take a lead on defending clients facing a variety of prosecution from routine criminal matters to complex fraud and serious crime. You'll handle your own caseload and cover duty solicitor commitments, ensuring clients receive robust representation at every stage. Your ability to act quickly, think strategically and deliver outstanding legal services will make you a key asset to the team.

Responsibilities

• Attend police stations and courts to represent clients during investigations and hearings
• Manage your own diverse caseload of criminal matters, including serious offences and high-value fraud
• Cover allocated duty slots with professionalism and efficiency
• Analyse evidence, prepare defence strategies and advise clients throughout the process
• Conduct client interviews and liaise with witnesses and experts
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, counsel and third parties to achieve the best outcomes

Requirements

• Proven experience handling complex and serious crime cases
• Strong advocacy skills with confidence in court
• Ability to manage high-pressure situations with professionalism and empathy
• Well-organised and able to handle a busy and varied caseload
• Excellent client care skills and a commitment to delivering a high standard of service

Benefits

• Competitive salary plus generous out-of-hours rates
• Flexible working options to support your lifestyle
• Clear progression opportunities
• Supportive team culture with a focus on collaboration and shared success

How to Apply

If you're ready to make a real impact in your next role, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV to [e-mail] or contact James Wiffen on 01279 464455 for a confidential discussion.