Criminal Solicitor

About the Role

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Legal Supervisor to lead our Criminal Legal Aid Contract, with a particular focus on representing children and young people who have been arrested or are involved in criminal proceedings. The successful candidate will be a Police Station Accredited Duty Solicitor, passionate about youth justice, and committed to ensuring that vulnerable clients receive exceptional representation and care throughout the criminal process. As a supervisor, you will provide expert guidance to junior staff, ensure compliance with Legal Aid Agency (LAA) and contractual standards, and uphold the firm's reputation for high-quality, client-focused defence work.

Key Responsibilities

Supervision and Compliance

• Act as the LAA-nominated Supervisor for the Criminal Legal Aid Contract.

• Ensure compliance with LAA and SQM quality standards.

• Carry out regular file reviews and supervision meetings with staff.

• Maintain accurate supervision records and oversee case management performance.

• Prepare for and manage LAA audits, peer reviews, and contract renewals.

Youth Justice and Casework

• Provide legal advice and representation to children and young people at the police station, Youth Court, and other criminal courts as appropriate.

• Undertake duty solicitor work, including 24-hour police station call-outs.

• Ensure all casework reflects the unique needs of young clients — prioritising communication, safeguarding, and liaison with parents, appropriate adults, and youth offending teams.

• Apply trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate approaches in all client interactions.

• Handle a caseload of both legally aided and privately funded matters with care and efficiency.

Leadership and Training

• Supervise and mentor solicitors, trainees, and caseworkers, particularly in youth justice practice.

• Deliver internal training on youth-specific procedures, PACE safeguards, and LAA compliance.

• Promote best practice in dealing with vulnerable and young clients.

Contract and Performance Management

• Oversee case allocation, billing, and contract performance indicators.

• Report regularly to management on supervision outcomes, compliance, and service quality.

• Contribute to strategic planning, service development, and external partnerships (e.g., Youth Offending Services, local schools, community agencies).

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor with current Duty Solicitor (Police Station) accreditation.

• Meets the LAA Supervisor Standard for the Criminal Legal Aid Contract.

• Minimum 3 years' PQE in criminal defence work.

• Demonstrated expertise in representing children and young people in criminal matters.

• Strong knowledge of PACE 1984 and Codes of Practice (especially regarding juveniles).

• Sound understanding of Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, Criminal Procedure Rules, and Legal Aid Regulations.

• Proven supervisory and leadership skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with a child-centred approach.

Desirable Attributes

• Accredited Children's Representative (or willing to obtain accreditation).

• Experience liaising with Youth Offending Teams, Social Services, and educational institutions.

• Experience preparing and managing LAA audits or peer review assessments.

• Understanding of safeguarding obligations and trauma-informed practice.

• Familiarity with SQM and electronic case management systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and on-call duty rota enhancements.

• Flexible working arrangements.

• Funded training and continuing professional development opportunities.

• Supportive, collaborative, and socially committed working environment.

• • Opportunity to shape and grow the firm's Youth Justice Practice.