Duty Solicitor
LJ Recruitment
Hartlepool · posted 20 August 2026
Salary
£35,000 – £55,000 a year
Job type
full time
Location
Hartlepool, County Durham
Category
Legal
Duty Solicitor - Criminal Defence
County Durham or North Yorkshire
Full-time | Permanent
Salary: Dependent on experience
Make Your Next Career Move with an Established Teesside Law Firm
Are you a recently qualified Duty Solicitor looking for an exciting opportunity to develop your career within a well-established and supportive criminal defence team?
We are recruiting on behalf of a long-established firm with a proud history, with offices across North Yorkshire and County Durham.
The firm has built its reputation on sound judgement, in-depth knowledge and excellent client care, and this is an excellent opportunity for a recently qualified Duty Solicitor to join a successful, busy and friendly Criminal Justice Department.
The Role
As a Duty Solicitor, you will support the Criminal Justice team across both the Magistrates' Court and Police Station, providing high-quality legal advice and representation to clients at important stages of the criminal justice process.
You will be joining an established department with genuine long-term prospects and the opportunity to work alongside experienced legal professionals.
Key Responsibilities
Provide advice and representation to clients at the Police Station
Represent clients in Magistrates' Court proceedings
Manage a varied caseload of criminal defence matters
Provide clear, professional and timely legal advice
Prepare cases effectively and ensure matters are progressed efficiently
Build strong relationships with clients and provide excellent client care
Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Criminal Justice Department
Maintain high professional and regulatory standards
Develop your skills and experience within a busy criminal defence practice
What's on Offer?
Competitive salary dependent on experience
Full-time, permanent position
Genuine long-term career prospects
The opportunity to join a successful and friendly Criminal Justice Department
Support and development as you continue to build your career
The opportunity to work within an established firm with a strong reputation across Teesside and South Durham
Who Are We Looking For?
We are keen to hear from recently qualified or experienced Duty Solicitors who are looking to establish themselves within a busy and supportive Criminal Justice Department.
You will ideally have:
Qualification as a Solicitor and Duty Solicitor accreditation
An interest in developing a career in criminal defence
Experience or exposure to Police Station and Magistrates' Court work
Strong advocacy and communication skills
Excellent client-care skills
The ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities
A professional, proactive and committed approach
The ability to work both independently and as part of a wider team
Join a Firm with a Long-Standing Reputation
Take the Next Step in Your Criminal Defence Career
If you're a recently qualified or experienced Duty Solicitor looking for a role offering genuine long-term prospects, professional development and the opportunity to join a successful and friendly team, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.
Interested?
For further information about the role, please apply or contact Natalie Dwan at LJ Recruitment for a confidential conversation
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