Duty Solicitor / Criminal Defence Solicitor

Location: Derby Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience, plus overtime and mileage payments Join Our Criminal Defence Team We are seeking an experienced and motivated Criminal Defence Solicitor or CILEX Practitioner to join our busy and well-established Criminal Department based in Derby. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a highly regarded team providing representation and advice to clients across the East Midlands. Applications are welcomed from accredited Duty Solicitors, as well as experienced criminal practitioners who are actively working towards obtaining Duty Solicitor Accreditation and are looking to further develop their careers within a supportive and progressive environment. The successful candidate will possess strong advocacy skills, excellent client care standards and a commitment to delivering high-quality legal services. The Role You will undertake a varied caseload involving litigation and advocacy across all aspects of criminal defence practice, representing clients from the earliest stages of proceedings through to conclusion. Whilst the position is primarily based in Derby, our practice operates across the East Midlands and there may be occasional requirements to attend our other offices, Police Stations and Court Centres within the region. Key Responsibilities Managing criminal cases from initial instruction through to conclusion.Providing advice and support to clients in person, by telephone and via video conferencing.Preparing case files, legal documents and applications.Attending the Magistrates’ Court on a daily basis to represent clients in:First appearances and remand hearingsGuilty and Not Guilty Anticipated Plea hearingsContested trialsSentencing hearingsProviding Police Station advice and representation.Conducting litigation in Crown Court matters.Maintaining accurate records and compliance with internal procedures and quality standards.Participating in the out-of-hours rota, including Police Station attendances and Saturday/Bank Holiday Courts. About You Essential Requirements Qualified Solicitor holding a current Practising Certificate, or a suitably qualified CILEX Practitioner with the appropriate Advocacy Certificate.Experience practising criminal defence law and managing criminal cases.Strong advocacy and case preparation skills.Excellent oral and written communication skills.Ability to provide clear, practical and client-focused legal advice.Strong analytical, organisational and negotiation skills.Experience using a computerised Case Management System.Understanding of Criminal Legal Aid procedures and applications.Commitment to maintaining professional standards, client confidentiality and regulatory compliance.Good working knowledge of Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Word and Excel. Duty Solicitor Accreditation Applications Are Welcomed From Solicitors and CILEX Practitioners who currently hold CLAS Duty Solicitor Accreditation; andCriminal practitioners who are actively working towards Duty Solicitor Accreditation and can demonstrate the experience, ability and commitment required to achieve accreditation. Desirable Current CLAS Duty Solicitor Accreditation.Working knowledge of SQM requirements and quality assurance procedures.Full UK Driving Licence. Support for Candidates Working Towards Duty Solicitor Accreditation We recognise the importance of developing the next generation of Duty Solicitors and welcome applications from experienced criminal practitioners who are working towards accreditation. For The Right Candidate, We Can Offer Support and mentoring from experienced Duty Solicitors.Exposure to a broad range of criminal defence work across Police Stations and Courts.Opportunities to develop advocacy, client care and case management skills.Structured supervision and guidance to assist with progression towards accreditation.Career development opportunities within an established and growing criminal defence department. What We Offer Competitive salary package.Overtime payments for out-of-hours work.Mileage allowance.Varied and interesting caseload.Supportive and collaborative working environment.Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities.The opportunity to work with an experienced team committed to providing first-class criminal defence representation. Equality and Diversity We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process or interviews, please let us know in advance and we will be happy to accommodate your needs. How to Apply To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact our Practice Manager or Steve Ramsell, Department Manager. We look forward to hearing from you.