Criminal Duty Solicitor

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 to handle a diverse caseload and represent clients at police stations and courts. This full-time role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive team. The ideal candidate will have a current Criminal Duty status, strong advocacy, negotiation, and client care skills. Flexible working arrangements and ongoing professional development are also part of the offer.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Structured pay progression

Additional payments for out-of-hours work

Flexible working arrangements

Ongoing CPD and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor with a current Criminal Duty status (LAA accredited).
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and client care skills are essential.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are preferred.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Excellent advocacy skills

Negotiation skills

Client care skills

Organisational ability

Attention to detail

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.