Senior Crime Solicitor – Private Defence (Manchester)

William James Recruitment; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Generous bonus scheme

Hybrid working

25 days’ annual leave + bank holidays

Healthcare benefits

On-site gym

Training & development

Wellbeing support

Team events

Career progression

Modern Manchester city centre office

Job summary

William James Recruitment is working with a respected criminal defence firm in Manchester to recruit a Senior Crime Solicitor. The role focuses on privately funded, serious criminal matters, with pre-charge advice, client engagement and support through charging.

The successful solicitor will manage a varied caseload, advocate in the Magistrates’ Court and help supervise junior lawyers, while enjoying a flexible hybrid working pattern and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor with 3+ years' PQE, ideally in criminal defence.
• Strong experience in criminal investigations and defence.
• Good understanding of criminal law and court procedures.
• Confident advocate with strong client-facing skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of criminal defence matters, privately funded.
• Advise clients at pre-charge and investigation stages.
• Support clients through engagement with authorities and charging.
• Attend police stations and court hearings when required.
• Undertake advocacy in the Magistrates’ Court.
• Prepare legal advice, correspondence and case documentation.
• Mentor and supervise junior lawyers and trainees.
• Liaise with clients, counsel, courts and other parties.
• Maintain high standards of client care and case management.
• Ensure compliance with professional and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Criminal defence

Pre-charge investigations

Advocacy

Client engagement

Team leadership

Time management

Communication

Education

PQE 3+ years in criminal defence

Tools

Courtroom experience

Job description

William James Recruitment is working with a respected criminal defence firm in Manchester to recruit a Senior Crime Solicitor. The role focuses on privately funded, serious criminal matters, with pre-charge advice, client engagement and support through charging.

The successful solicitor will manage a varied caseload, advocate in the Magistrates’ Court and help supervise junior lawyers, while enjoying a flexible hybrid working pattern and a comprehensive benefits package.