Duty Solicitor

eNL; Hayes End; Hybrid; GBP 37,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

eNL is recruiting a Duty Solicitor for a full-time, hybrid role in London. The solicitor will represent clients detained at police stations, deliver clear legal advice, and manage a varied defence caseload across criminal offences.

The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year PQE, strong advocacy, communication, and case management skills. The firm offers professional development and clear progression within a growing criminal team.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor with at least 1 year PQE in criminal law.
• Strong advocacy, communication, and case management skills.
• Duty Solicitor accreditation desirable but not essential, willing to obtain it.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients detained at police stations and provide clear legal advice.
• Manage a varied criminal defence caseload across a broad range of offences.
• Provide hands-on advocacy in Magistrates’ Court for summary trials and Crown Court for Higher Rights of Audience.
• Own cases from start to finish with thorough preparation and tight deadlines.
• Maintain high standards of client care and contribute to a collaborative team.

Skills

Advocacy

Communication

Case management

Education

PQE 1 year in criminal law

Job description

A Duty Solicitor is sought for a full-time, hybrid role in London with a Legal 500 and Chambers UK ranked criminal defence firm, salary £37,000 to £47,000 depending on experience.

The successful candidate will represent clients detained at police stations, deliver clear legal advice, and manage a varied defence caseload covering a broad range of offences. Advocacy features prominently, with appearances in the Magistrates' Court for summary trials and Crown Court work for those holding Higher Rights of Audience. Applicants should have at least one year PQE and strong advocacy, communication and case management abilities. The position offers ongoing professional development and clear progression prospects within a growing criminal team.

DUTY SOLICITOR, 1+ PQE, LONDON, £37,000 - £47,000 DOE – Join a Legal 500 and Chambers UK ranked law firm with a strong reputation across criminal defence.

The firm is seeking a motivated Duty Solicitor to join its growing Criminal team, offering a varied caseload, ongoing professional development, and clear opportunities for career progression – JOB REF: 215305823

THE ROLE

You will represent clients detained at police stations, provide clear and effective legal advice, and manage a varied criminal defence caseload spanning a broad range of offences. The role offers hands-on advocacy opportunities in the Magistrates’ Court, including summary trials, with Crown Court advocacy for those qualified and authorised under Higher Rights of Audience. You will take ownership of cases from start to finish, ensuring thorough preparation, compliance with deadlines and high standards of client care, while working collaboratively within a supportive and growing Crime team.

THE CANDIDATE

You will be a qualified Solicitor with at least 1 year’s PQE in criminal law, supported by strong advocacy, communication, and case management skills. While Duty Solicitor accreditation is desirable, it is not essential, provided you are willing to obtain it. You will be confident managing a demanding caseload independently, preparing cases thoroughly and maintaining high standards under pressure. A proactive, pragmatic approach, excellent client care and a genuine commitment to publicly funded legal work are essential, alongside the ability to build strong client relationships and contribute effectively to a collaborative team.

THE FIRM

Join a Legal 500 and Chambers UK recognised law firm and become part of a dynamic, expanding criminal law team. You will benefit from a collaborative and supportive environment, work alongside experienced practitioners and industry specialists, and enjoy a firm-wide commitment to nurturing talent and promoting from within. In return, you will receive a competitive salary commensurate with experience, ongoing professional development, and excellent opportunities for long-term career progression.

At eNL we value diversity and inclusion. We want to attract people at all levels and encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates whatever their ethnicity, religion, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any characteristics protected by law in the jurisdictions in which we operate.