The role will be based at the firm’s Blyth office but will offer the chance to work in court centres throughout the region and beyond.
We pride ourselves on thorough and robust defence case preparation. We work hard, looking at each case from every perspective. This allows us to formulate novel points, enabling us to articulate powerful and compelling submissions on behalf of those we represent.
The Position
We are fortunate to benefit from a solid team of talent. We are seeking to develop our team further by the addition of a Criminal Solicitor (preferably duty qualified)
The role will include but not be limited to:
- Providing comprehensive legal advice to clients, (whether privately funded individuals or those who have the benefit of Legal Aid).
- Conducting case analysis, collaborating with external professionals such as barristers, forensic experts etc to build a robust defence.
- Representing clients in criminal investigations (police station accreditation is required) and proceedings, including police station attendance, advocacy before the magistrates court, crown court litigation, crown court bail hearings, pre-trial conferences (both in chambers/office and in prison) and plea negotiations.
You will be expected to draft witness statements, defence statements, undertake legal research and be able to prepare skeleton arguments and legal submissions.
Most importantly , you will be open, honest and approachable, with a confident, easy going manner and the ability to instil confidence in clients from a large range of social backgrounds.
Person specification:
We are looking for the following:
An individual who is 2-4 years PQ who is police station duty accredited. You will be able to work with minimum supervision, use your own initiative and be self-disciplined.
The successful candidate must be a robust individual who is tenacious in their pursuit of justice. The nature of criminal defence requires considerable mental dexterity – it can involve working unsociable hours. This is likely to mean that you will be required to cover one Saturday morning court per month along with your share of bank holidays, unsocial hours being covered by the whole team thereby allowing a degree of flexibility in term of days covered.
This role requires an individual who is entirely committed and dedicated to criminal defence work, takes pride in the profession and is passionate about what they do in return you will be supported by a well-respected team with opportunities to grow within your career in a progressive firm.
Desirable:
- Working knowledge of legal firm software
- Knowledge of Legal Aid practices/procedures/billing
Hours:
9am to 5pm – Monday to Friday
Rota for Saturday /Bank Holiday Court dates – enhancements/overtime paid accordingly.
Option to undertake out of hours police station work for further remuneration.
Salary: Competitive
Please send your application directly to Helen Liffen - Practice Manager