Trainee Solicitor Criminal Defence
DPP Law is a leading criminal defence practice with a long-established reputation for providing expert representation at the police station, Magistrates’ Court, Crown Court and Court of Appeal. We are committed to protecting the rights of our clients and delivering exceptional legal services across all areas of criminal defence and road traffic law.
Due to continued growth, we are seeking a motivated and ambitious Trainee Solicitor to join our Criminal Defence Department.
This is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring solicitor to gain hands-on experience in a busy criminal defence practice. The successful candidate will work closely with experienced solicitors, duty solicitors and advocates, assisting with all aspects of criminal case preparation and client representation.
Responsibilities will include:
· Assisting solicitors with the preparation of criminal cases.
· Attending police stations, Magistrates’ Courts and Crown Courts.
· Drafting correspondence, attendance notes and legal documents.
· Taking instructions from clients and witnesses.
· Reviewing prosecution evidence and preparing case summaries.
· Conducting legal research.
· Assisting with legal aid applications and compliance requirements.
· Supporting advocates before, during and after hearings.
· Maintaining accurate case management records.
· Providing excellent client care to often vulnerable clients and their families.
Essential Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate:
Qualifications
· Law degree (LLB) or equivalent legal qualification.
· Completion of the SQE route or LPC (or currently undertaking the relevant qualification).
Skills and Experience
· Genuine commitment to criminal defence work.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
· Strong organisational and time management abilities.
· Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines.
· High level of attention to detail.
· Excellent client care and interpersonal skills.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Strong IT skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
Personal Qualities
· Professional and resilient approach.
· Empathy and ability to build rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds.
· Confidence when dealing with difficult situations.
· Strong ethical standards and integrity.
· Enthusiastic, proactive and willing to learn.
Desirable Criteria
The following would be advantageous:
· Previous experience within criminal law.
· Police station accreditation or progress towards accreditation.
· Experience of legal aid work.
· Court attendance experience.
· Advocacy experience (mooting, debating or practical advocacy).
· Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
· Experience working with vulnerable clients.
· Knowledge of the Criminal Procedure Rules and criminal legal aid framework.
What We Offer
· Structured training contract with supervision from experienced practitioners.
· Exposure to a broad range of criminal and motoring cases.
· Advocacy development opportunities.
· Police station and court experience from an early stage.
· Support towards Duty Solicitor qualification.
· Ongoing professional development and training.
· Competitive salary and benefits package.
· Friendly and supportive working environment.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you wish to pursue a career in criminal defence and what attracts you to working at DPP Law to SueChristopher@dpp-law.com.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and early applications are encouraged.
DPP Law is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.