Solicitor, Leeds

Solicitor - Crime Job Purpose of the Solicitor

To provide high-quality legal advice, representation, and case management in all areas of criminal law, ensuring excellent client care and compliance with regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities of the Solicitor Client Representation & Case Management

• Advise and represent clients at police stations, Magistrates' Court, and Crown Court.
• Prepare and manage case files from instruction through to conclusion.
• Provide clear and timely legal advice to clients, keeping them updated throughout proceedings.
• Liaise with clients, witnesses, counsel, and third parties as necessary.

Court & Advocacy Work

• Attend and represent clients in court hearings, including bail applications, case management hearings, and trials.
• Conduct advocacy in the Magistrates' Court and, where appropriate, higher courts.
• Brief and liaise with barristers where required.

Document Preparation & Legal Aid

• Draft legal documents including statements, applications, case summaries, and appeals.
• Prepare trial bundles and manage disclosure.
• Deal with Legal Aid applications and ensure compliance with funding requirements.

Legal Research & Compliance

• Keep up to date with criminal legislation, case law, and procedural rules.
• Ensure compliance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and Legal Aid Agency (LAA) requirements.
• Maintain high standards of professional conduct and confidentiality.

Team & Business Contribution

• Supervise, support, and delegate work to paralegals and trainee solicitors.
• Review paralegal-prepared documents and ensure accuracy and quality of work.
• Foster a collaborative working environment, ensuring paralegals receive guidance and feedback.
• Contribute to the growth and reputation of the criminal law team.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, colleagues, and external partners.

Person Specification for the Solicitor Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Solicitor with current practising certificate.
• Duty Solicitor status
• Higher Rights of Audience (advantageous).
• Experience in criminal defence work, including police station and court representation.
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff or paralegals (advantageous).

Skills needed for the Solicitor

• Strong advocacy and negotiation skills.
• Excellent drafting and legal research skills.
• Ability to manage heavy caseloads and work to tight deadlines.
• Proficient in case management systems and Microsoft Office.
• Strong leadership, delegation, and mentoring skills.

Qualities needed for the Solicitor

• Professional, confident, and resilient under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Excellent communication and client care abilities.
• Team player with leadership qualities.
• Commitment to access to justice and fairness within the criminal justice system

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