Trainee Solicitor – Criminal Defence

FQPS Academy Ltd.; Huddersfield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

Hudson Gray Solicitors in Huddersfield is seeking a motivated Trainee Solicitor to join our criminal defence team. The role offers hands-on experience across police station, Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court matters.

You will work alongside experienced solicitors, assist with case preparation, client instructions and legal research, and contribute to file management and legal aid applications. Applicants should be currently studying towards or have completed the LPC, or have passed SQE1.

Qualifications

• Currently studying towards or completed LPC, or passed SQE1.
• Strong interest in criminal defence and client care.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and organisational ability.

Responsibilities

• Assisting solicitors with criminal cases from initial instructions through to conclusion.
• Taking client instructions and maintaining regular contact with clients.
• Reviewing prosecution evidence, disclosure and other case papers.
• Preparing case summaries, correspondence and legal documents.
• Conducting legal research and assisting with trial preparation.
• Assisting with legal aid applications and file management.
• Attending court and police stations with solicitors as required.
• Maintaining accurate records and managing deadlines.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Team player

Professional and client-focused

Education

LPC in progress or completed or SQE1

Job description

Hudson Gray Solicitors is seeking a motivated and committed Trainee Solicitor to join our criminal defence team in Huddersfield.

The role offers practical experience in a busy criminal defence practice, working alongside experienced solicitors on police station, Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court matters. We are looking for someone with a genuine interest in criminal law and a commitment to providing excellent client care.

Key responsibilities

• Assisting solicitors with criminal cases from initial instructions through to conclusion.
• Taking client instructions and maintaining regular contact with clients.
• Reviewing prosecution evidence, disclosure and other case papers.
• Preparing case summaries, correspondence and legal documents.
• Conducting legal research and assisting with trial preparation.
• Assisting with legal aid applications and file management.
• Attending court and police stations with solicitors as required.
• Maintaining accurate records and managing deadlines.

Applicants must either be currently studying towards or have completed the LPC, or have passed SQE1 as a minimum.

The successful candidate will also demonstrate:

• A strong interest in pursuing a career in criminal defence.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• A professional and sensitive approach to clients.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work under pressure.
• A willingness to learn and work collaboratively.

Previous experience in a criminal law firm or a legal support role is desirable but not essential.

Salary: Dependent on experience.

Pay: Up to £28,000.00 per year

• Are you either currently studying towards or have completed the LPC, or have passed SQE1 as a minimum.