Duty Solicitor

Duty Solicitor
Location: St Albans/Bromley/Margate
Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum
Job Type: Full-time

The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Duty Solicitor to join a busy and growing Criminal Defence team based in St Albans, Bromley and Margate. This role offers the opportunity to handle a varied criminal caseload, represent clients at police stations and in court, and develop your career within a supportive legal environment.

The successful candidate will be committed to access to justice and passionate about delivering high-quality legal representation to clients requiring publicly funded legal services.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent clients detained at police stations, providing clear advice and effective legal representation.
• Manage a varied criminal defence caseload covering a broad range of offences.
• Undertake advocacy in the Magistrates’ Court, including summary trials.
• Attend Crown Court hearings where qualified to do so through Higher Rights of Audience.
• Provide professional, practical advice and maintain high standards of client care.
• Manage cases efficiently, ensuring deadlines and court requirements are met.
• Maintain accurate case records and use case management systems effectively.
• Work independently while contributing positively to the wider team.

About You
The ideal candidate will have:

• Solicitor qualification with at least one year’s post-qualification experience in criminal law.
• Criminal Duty Solicitor accreditation, preferably; candidates without accreditation must be willing to obtain it.
• Strong advocacy, communication and client-care skills.
• Experience managing a demanding caseload with minimal supervision.
• Confidence working independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Good IT skills and familiarity with case management systems.
• A pragmatic, professional and positive approach to work.
• A genuine commitment to publicly funded legal services and access to justice.
• The ability to meet tight deadlines and remain calm under pressure.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary: Up to £50,000 per annum, depending on experience.
• A positive, supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities to develop specialist criminal defence experience.
• Professional development and career progression opportunities.
• The opportunity to work alongside experienced legal professionals.
• A culture that encourages internal progression and development.

Interested
If you are interested in the role please contact Ellie on 01904 571760