Duty Solicitor Criminal Defence

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions; Essex; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading criminal law firm in Essex is seeking an exceptional Duty Solicitor to join their award-winning criminal defence team. You will represent clients in complex criminal matters and handle duties across multiple police stations while enjoying excellent career progression opportunities. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in criminal law and be committed to client care. This position offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Performance-related bonuses

Annual salary reviews

Professional development funding

Enhanced pension scheme

Qualifications

• Proven criminal defence experience required.
• Clear potential to gain Duty Solicitor status for newly qualified solicitors.
• Strong knowledge of criminal law and court processes.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in complex criminal matters.
• Handle duty solicitor responsibilities across multiple Essex police stations.
• Conduct court advocacy in Magistrates and Crown Court.

Skills

Legal Drafting

Litigation

Legal Research

Negotiation

Education

Qualified Duty Solicitor

Police station accreditation

Tools

Legal software

Job description

Job Description

Duty Solicitor

Salary : Location : Essex

Our Client :

Our client a specialist Legal 500 recognised crime firm is seeking an exceptional Duty Solicitor to join their highly regarded team. This is your opportunity to work with leading criminal defence experts whilst advancing your career in a supportive expanding practice with multiple Essex locations.

About This Prestigious Opportunity

Due to continued success and expansion across Essex our client requires a skilled Duty Solicitor to join their award-winning criminal defence team. Youll work alongside Legal 500 recognised practitioners handling high-profile cases whilst enjoying excellent career progression opportunities and competitive rewards.

Your Key Responsibilities

Criminal Defence Excellence

Represent clients in complex criminal matters preparing cases to the highest professional standards

Handle duty solicitor responsibilities across multiple Essex police stations and courts

Manage police station work including interviews charging decisions and bail applications

Conduct court advocacy at Magistrates and Crown Court levels with confidence and expertise

Client Representation Provide expert criminal defence representation across all areas of criminal law

Deliver exceptional client care with sensitivity and professionalism throughout proceedings

Prepare comprehensive case strategies ensuring optimal outcomes for clients

Handle urgent matters including out-of-hours police station attendance

Professional Collaboration

Work collaboratively within a specialist criminal defence team recognised by Legal 500

Maintain exceptional standards of case preparation and client communication

Support team objectives in delivering outstanding criminal defence services

Contribute to practice development and reputation enhancement

Essential Requirements

Qualified Duty Solicitor with proven criminal defence experience

Newly qualified solicitor with clear potential and commitment to gain Duty Solicitor status

Police station accreditation essential for immediate effectiveness

Current practising certificate and full right to work in the UK

Strong knowledge of criminal law procedure and court processes

Experience in police station work including PACE procedures and interview techniques

Court advocacy skills with confidence in Magistrates and Crown Court environments

Case management proficiency using legal software and court systems

Higher Rights of Audience advantageous but not essential

Personal Attributes

Commitment to delivering high-standard criminal defence work under pressure

Professional approach to client representation and sensitive case management

Ability to work effectively within a busy specialist practice environment

Strong communication skills with clients colleagues and court officials

Resilience and dedication to criminal defence advocacy

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Competitive salary dependent on experience and qualifications

Performance-related bonuses linked to case outcomes and client satisfaction

Annual salary reviews with merit-based increases

Professional development funding for ongoing training and qualifications

Work-Life Balance

Full-time or part-time positions available to suit your lifestyle

Flexible working arrangements across multiple Essex office locations

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays increasing with service

Study leave provision for professional development and court commitments

Career Development

Clear progression pathway within Legal 500 recognised practice

Mentorship programme with experienced criminal defence Partners

Comprehensive training opportunities including Higher Rights of Audience

Support for specialisation in specific areas of criminal law

Partnership track for exceptional performers

Additional Benefits

Enhanced pension scheme with employer contributions

Professional indemnity insurance fully covered

Legal expenses insurance for personal matters

Season ticket loans and mileage allowances for court travel

Regular team social events and professional networking opportunities

About Our Client

Our client is a specialist Legal 500 recognised crime firm with offices strategically located across Essex. With an outstanding reputation built over many years theyre recognised as one of Essexs leading criminal defence providers with a highly regarded team that consistently delivers exceptional results for clients facing serious criminal charges.

Dont miss this opportunity to advance your criminal law career with a Legal 500 recognised practice.

Apply now or contact Mara Watson for a confidential discussion

Key Skills

Legal Drafting,Litigation,Algebra,Legal Counsel,Mediation Experience,Tribal Law,Legal Research,Telemarketing,Training & Development,Geometry,Child Protective Services,negotiation

Employment Type :

Full-Time

Experience :

years

Vacancy :

1

Yearly Salary Salary :

40000 - 55000