Criminal Defence Solicitor
Location: Birmingham
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience
About the Role
We are looking for an ambitious and dedicated Criminal Defence Solicitor to join our growing and well-established criminal law team in Birmingham. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career within a busy and supportive practice handling a broad range of criminal matters.
The successful candidate will represent clients at every stage of the criminal justice process, from police station attendance through to court advocacy and trial preparation. You will benefit from experienced administrative support, allowing you to focus on delivering exceptional legal services and client care.
Key Responsibilities
- Attend and advise clients at police station interviews.
- Conduct advocacy and represent clients before the Magistrates’ Court.
- Prepare and manage criminal cases from initial instruction through to conclusion.
- Attend Crown Court hearings, conferences and meetings with counsel and clients.
- Prepare detailed briefs to counsel and assist with trial preparation.
- Review evidence, advise clients on legal strategy and prepare robust defences.
- Manage a varied caseload while ensuring compliance with regulatory and Legal Aid Agency requirements.
- Maintain excellent client relationships and provide a high standard of professional service.
- Liaise with courts, barristers, experts and other stakeholders involved in criminal proceedings.
Administrative Support
You will be supported by a dedicated administrative team responsible for:
- File opening and case administration.
- Court listing and diary management.
- Preparation of correspondence and legal documents.
- Legal aid applications and supporting administration.
- General office support to ensure solicitors can focus on casework, advocacy and client representation.
Candidate Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor of England and Wales.
- Experience in criminal defence law.
- Strong advocacy and client care skills.
- Excellent organisational and case management abilities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills.
Desirable Qualifications
- Duty Solicitor status.
- Police Station Accreditation.
- Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal).
Candidates holding Duty Solicitor accreditation and/or Higher Rights of Audience will be particularly attractive, offering the opportunity to undertake a broader range of work and play a key role in the continued growth of the department.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Strong administrative and operational support.
- Genuine career progression opportunities.
- A collaborative and supportive working environment.
- High-quality and varied criminal defence work.
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated Criminal Defence Solicitor to join a respected and expanding Birmingham practice, with the support and resources needed to build a successful long-term career.
Pay: From £35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
