Criminal Defence is not a 9–5 profession. Neither is this opportunity.
If you're looking for a predictable office job with fixed hours, this role is unlikely to be the right fit.
If, however, you're looking for a career that is challenging, rewarding, fast-paced and genuinely makes a difference to people's lives, we want to hear from you.
We are seeking a dedicated, resilient and ambitious individual to join our busy Criminal Defence Department as a Trainee Solicitor. This is an outstanding opportunity for someone who is passionate about criminal law and is prepared to invest the time and commitment required to become an exceptional criminal defence solicitor.
Criminal law is demanding. Clients are arrested at all hours, hearings change at short notice, and cases often require immediate action. We are therefore looking for someone who understands that success in this profession requires flexibility, commitment and a VERY STRONG work ethic.
The Role
Working alongside experienced criminal defence solicitors, you will gain hands-on experience across all aspects of criminal law. Your responsibilities will include:
· Taking instructions from clients.
· Liaising with Counsel, Chambers, the Crown Prosecution Service, HMCTS, the Police and other agencies.
· Drafting instructions to Counsel and expert witnesses.
· Taking witness statements.
· Preparing cases for trial.
· Conducting legal research.
· Assisting with Crown Court and Magistrates' Court matters.
· Attending courts, police stations and prisons throughout Greater Manchester, Lancashire, the Midlands and Yorkshire.
· Advising and representing clients at police stations once Police Station Accredited.
· Building and maintaining your own professional reputation and developing your own client following.
This role provides genuine responsibility from an early stage and is ideal for someone who thrives under pressure, enjoys advocacy and wants to build a long-term career in criminal defence.
About You
We are looking for someone who is enthusiastic, reliable and eager to learn. You should be able to work independently when required whilst also contributing effectively as part of a close-knit team.
You will possess:
· A minimum 2:1 LL.B (Hons) degree.
· You must have completed the LPC, or, be due to complete the LPC within the next 12 months, or be undertaking the SQE route.
· At least 12 months' experience working within a busy criminal law practice.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
· Strong organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
· The ability to prioritise workloads and meet demanding deadlines.
· A willingness to travel extensively when required.
· A positive attitude, resilience and a genuine desire to develop as a criminal defence solicitor.
Police Station Accreditation would be advantageous but is not essential, as full training and support will be provided to the right candidate.
What We Offer
In return, we offer:
· A genuine route to qualification as a Solicitor.
· High-quality training and supervision from experienced criminal defence practitioners.
· Exposure to a wide variety of criminal cases from the outset.
· Competitive salary, dependent upon age and experience.
· Ongoing professional development and career progression.
· A supportive, collaborative and ambitious working environment.
· The opportunity to make a real difference to clients facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Please Note
This is a demanding role that requires commitment, flexibility and professionalism. Court hearings, police station attendances and client emergencies do not always occur during standard office hours. Applicants should therefore be prepared to work outside normal business hours where required.
Applications are invited only from candidates who hold a qualifying Law degree and have completed (or are completing) the LPC, or who are following the SQE route.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about criminal law and are eager to grow within a reputable firm, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter detailing your experience and suitability for the role to [email protected] by 28 August 2026.
Pay: £23,132.20-£26,715.20 per year
Work Location: In person
