Duty Solicitor - Criminal Defence

Duty Solicitor

Salary: £35,000-£55,000

Location: Essex

About Our Client

Our client is a specialist Legal 500 recognised crime firm with offices across Essex. With an outstanding reputation built over many years, they are one of Essex's leading criminal defence providers with a highly regarded team that consistently delivers exceptional results for clients facing serious criminal charges.

Overview

Due to continued success and expansion across Essex, our client requires a skilled Duty Solicitor to join their award winning criminal defence team. You'll work alongside Legal 500 recognised practitioners, handling high profile cases whilst enjoying excellent career progression opportunities and competitive rewards.

Your Key Responsibilities Criminal Defence Excellence

• Represent clients in complex criminal matters, preparing cases to the highest professional standards
• Handle duty solicitor responsibilities across multiple Essex police stations and courts
• Manage police station work including interviews, charging decisions, and bail applications
• Conduct court advocacy at Magistrates' and Crown Court levels with confidence and expertise

Client Representation

• Provide expert criminal defence representation across all areas of criminal law
• Deliver exceptional client care with sensitivity and professionalism throughout proceedings
• Prepare comprehensive case strategies ensuring optimal outcomes for clients
• Handle urgent matters including out of hours police station attendance

Professional Collaboration

• Work collaboratively within a specialist criminal defence team recognised by Legal 500
• Maintain exceptional standards of case preparation and client communication
• Support team objectives in delivering outstanding criminal defence services
• Contribute to practice development and reputation enhancement

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Duty Solicitor with proven criminal defence experience
• Newly qualified solicitor with clear potential and commitment to gain Duty Solicitor status
• Police station accreditation essential for immediate effectiveness
• Current practising certificate and full right to work in the UK
• Strong knowledge of criminal law, procedure, and court processes
• Experience in police station work including PACE procedures and interview techniques
• Court advocacy skills with confidence in Magistrates' and Crown Court environments
• Case management proficiency using legal software and court systems
• Higher Rights of Audience advantageous but not essential

Personal Attributes

• Commitment to delivering high standard criminal defence work under pressure
• Professional approach to client representation and sensitive case management
• Ability to work effectively within a busy, specialist practice environment
• Strong communication skills with clients, colleagues, and court officials
• Resilience and dedication to criminal defence advocacy

Benefits Package

• Competitive salary £35,000-£55,000 dependent on experience and qualifications
• Performance related bonuses linked to case outcomes and client satisfaction
• Annual salary reviews with merit based increases
• Professional development funding for ongoing training and qualifications

Work Life Balance

• Full time or part time positions available to suit your lifestyle
• Flexible working arrangements across multiple Essex office locations
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service
• Study leave provision for professional development and court commitments

Career Development

• Clear progression pathway within Legal 500 recognised practice
• Mentorship programme with experienced criminal defence partners
• Comprehensive training opportunities including Higher Rights of Audience
• Support for specialisation in specific areas of criminal law
• Partnership track for exceptional performers

Additional Benefits

• Enhanced pension scheme with employer contributions
• Professional indemnity insurance fully covered
• Legal expenses insurance for personal matters
• Season ticket loans and mileage allowances for court travel
• Regular team social events and professional networking opportunities