Criminal Duty Solicitor
William James Recruitment
Manchester · posted 19 August 2026
Salary
£55,000 a year
Location
Manchester, England
Category
Legal
Criminal Duty Solicitor – Greater Manchester – Salary up to £55,000 (DOE) – Excellent Benefits – REF:958299123AL
A well-regarded and growing criminal defence firm are seeking an experienced Criminal Duty Solicitor to join it's growing team in Stockport as the firm embarks on an exciting phase of planned expansion with the launch of its legal aid department.
This is a rare opportunity to join a firm at a pivotal stage, playing a key role in the development of its publicly funded criminal offering alongside an already established private client practice.
You will regularly attend police stations, advise clients at all stages of investigation, and manage cases through to conclusion, whilst contributing to the growth and success of the department.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Qualified Solicitor with 3+ years' PQE in criminal defence
- Duty Solicitor status (essential)
- Strong experience handling both legal aid and privately funded work
- Proven ability to manage a varied caseload of general and serious crime matters
- Experience providing police station advice and representation
- Confident advocacy skills and/or Higher Rights of Audience (desirable)
- Excellent client care and communication skills
- A proactive, organised and team-oriented approach
Benefits
- Excellent Benefits + Free on-site Parking + Flexible working available
- Autonomy in your own role + clear progression paths + salary reviews
- Opportunity to join a firm in their planned growth stage
- Competitive salary up to £55,000 (DOE) + Duty Rota enhancements
- Free on-site parking
- Opportunity to play a key role in a growing department
- Clear progression opportunities as the team expands
- Ongoing training and development
- Supportive and collaborative team culture
- Pension scheme
- Maternity and Paternity package
- Annual salary reviews
- Private Dental Package
- Generous holiday allowance + bank holidays
- Support from leading and expert lawyers
- The team are happy to consider reasonable adjustments