Criminal Duty Solicitor - Manchester

Simpson Judge Ltd; Manchester; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable criminal defence firm in Manchester is seeking a qualified Criminal Duty Solicitor. The role involves managing a diverse caseload, representing clients in court, and providing expert legal advice. Candidates must have Criminal Duty status and excellent advocacy skills. Benefits include a competitive salary, structured pay progression, and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Structured pay progression

Flexible working arrangements

Ongoing CPD opportunities

Qualifications

• Current Criminal Duty status (LAA accredited) required.
• Excellent advocacy, negotiation, and client care skills needed.
• Strong organisational ability and attention to detail required.

Responsibilities

• Attend police stations and Magistrates' Courts as part of Duty Solicitor rota.
• Advise and represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings.
• Prepare cases for trial and liaise with counsel as required.

Skills

Advocacy

Negotiation

Client Care

Organisational Skills

Education

Qualified Solicitor with Criminal Duty status

Job description

Criminal Duty Solicitor - Manchester

Salary: £38,000 - £50,000 (DOE) + on-call & out-of-hours payments
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a qualified Criminal Duty Solicitor to join a well-established and reputable criminal defence firm in Manchester. I'm working with a respected Legal Aid practice known for its strong advocacy, dedicated client service, and supportive team culture. This is a fantastic opportunity for a Duty Solicitor looking to take the next step in their career within a dynamic and busy criminal law environment.

The Role

You'll be handling a diverse caseload, representing clients at police stations, Magistrates' Courts, and preparing matters for the Crown Court. You'll be expected to attend duty slots, provide expert legal advice, and manage files from initial instruction through to conclusion.

Key Responsibilities

• Attend police stations and Magistrates' Courts as part of the Duty Solicitor rota.
• Advise and represent clients at all stages of criminal proceedings.
• Prepare cases for trial and liaise with counsel as required.
• Deliver high-quality client care and maintain compliance with LAA standards.
• Contribute positively to a collaborative team culture.

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor with a current Criminal Duty status (LAA accredited).
• Excellent advocacy, negotiation, and client care skills.
• Strong organisational ability and attention to detail.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle preferred.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and structured pay progression.
• Additional payments for out-of-hours and police station call-outs.
• Flexible working arrangements where possible.
• Excellent career progression within a supportive team.
• Ongoing CPD and professional development opportunities.

This firm has a loyal client base and a strong reputation across Greater Manchester - offering real career stability and professional growth.