Telford, Shropshire | £45,000 – £55,000 DOE | Full-Time
We are working with an established legal practice in Telford who are looking to appoint an experienced Criminal Solicitor to join their busy criminal defence team.
This is an excellent opportunity for a solicitor with solid criminal defence experience who is confident managing their own caseload, providing high-quality client advice and representing clients across the police station and Magistrates’ Court.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on a varied caseload, with Crown Court advocacy available for those with the appropriate qualifications and experience.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage a varied criminal defence caseload from initial instruction through to conclusion.
* Provide clear, practical and effective legal advice to clients.
* Attend police stations and represent clients during interviews.
* Represent clients in Magistrates’ Court proceedings.
* Prepare cases for Crown Court proceedings and undertake advocacy where appropriately qualified.
* Take detailed client instructions and review relevant evidence and documentation.
* Assess prosecution evidence and identify potential weaknesses and defences.
* Advise clients on plea, bail, sentencing and overall case strategy.
* Prepare legal documentation, statements, applications and representations.
* Prepare cases for trial, including reviewing disclosure and witness evidence.
* Liaise with barristers, experts and other relevant professionals where required.
* Maintain accurate case records and ensure all deadlines and procedural requirements are met.
* Manage client relationships throughout the lifecycle of each matter.
* Ensure compliance with relevant SRA, Legal Aid Agency and firm requirements.
About You
The ideal candidate will have:
* Qualified as a Solicitor of England and Wales with a current practising certificate.
* Previous experience working within criminal defence.
* Strong knowledge of criminal law and procedure.
* Experience representing clients at police stations and Magistrates’ Court.
* Strong advocacy, negotiation and communication skills.
* Excellent client-care skills and the ability to work with vulnerable or distressed clients.
* Strong organisation and time-management skills.
* The ability to manage a busy caseload and work to tight deadlines.
* A practical, analytical and client-focused approach.
* The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a wider team.
Desirable Experience
* Duty Solicitor accreditation
* Higher Rights of Audience (Crime)
* Legal Aid criminal defence experience
* Crown Court advocacy experience
* Experience handling serious or complex criminal matters
* Experience representing vulnerable clients
Salary description
£45000.00 - £55000.00 per year