Criminal Solicitor

We are in search of a diligent and experienced Criminal Solicitor to enhance our team. The role involves providing expert legal advice, representation, and support to clients, maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct and client care. Responsibilities include handling various criminal matters, such as defence in criminal trials, bail applications, police station representation, and general criminal law matters.

General Responsibilities:

• Adherence to SRA regulatory requirements and industry best practices.


• Maintaining strict confidentiality and data security.


• Delivering high-level service across all areas of the Group.


• Demonstrating clear and courteous communication with internal and external stakeholders.


• Compliance with procedures outlined in the Office Manual.


• Providing additional support to other departments for example cross referral


Job-Specific Tasks:

• Independent case management.


• Conducting legal research and case preparation.


• Managing court proceedings and all facets of criminal litigation, including disclosure and drafting witness statements.


• Attending client meetings, hearings, and court sessions to liaise with various parties.


• Representing clients at police stations, magistrates' courts, and crown courts.


• Participating in plea negotiations, pre-trial hearings, and trials.


• Managing correspondence and client inquiries, effectively managing client expectations.


• Providing written advice to clients as necessary.


• Producing documents, obtaining expert reports, and issuing instructions.


• Meeting chargeable time and financial targets set by the Head of Department.


• Keeping updated with changes in laws and procedures.


• File management, administration, and time recording.


• Managing ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
  
  Essential experience in Criminal Law.


• 1 Years PQE is desirable.


• Experience working with vulnerable clients, resolving issues, and handling difficult conversations.


• Proficiency in Case Management systems.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook.


Attributes/Skills:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.


• Excellent time management skills to handle complex workloads and meet deadlines.


• Strong problem-solving skills and initiative.


• Ability to remain composed and resilient under pressure.


• Skilled in building rapport with internal and external stakeholders.


• Commercial awareness and business acumen.


• A team player with the ability to work independently.


• Positive, professional, and enthusiastic attitude.
  
  Welcome to Watson Woodhouse & Macks Solicitors, leading national law firms headquartered in Middlesbrough, serving clients across the UK and beyond in an array of legal areas. With a heritage spanning over three decades, we have developed anoutstanding reputation which has been recognised for our high-quality advice and first-class personal service.


At Watson Woodhouse & Macks, we embody three core values that guide our actions and define our culture:


• Hardworking: We are enthusiastic, proactive, genuine professionals who go the extra mile this is not just a motto it is our ethos. We believe in making things happen for our clients and each other.



• Dynamic: We are innovative, adaptable, and agile. We are responsive to our environment and are not afraid to challenge the status quo. We believe in being able to quickly adapt to changing needs of our clients and challenges within our environment.



• Together: We are high performing company team players. We support and contribute towards the growth of our services and our people. We believe in inclusivity across the group and having a focus on outstanding service for our clients in everything we do.


To support our continued growth and development, we have established a dedicated Talent Team committed to sourcing, retaining, and investing in our in-house talent. This team ensures that our employees have the support and resources needed to thrive in their roles and advance their careers within our organisation.

If you share our vision and values and are ready to make a meaningful impact in the legal sector, we invite you to explore our current career opportunities. Whether you are an experienced professional or a talented individual looking to launch your career, we welcome your application.

Join us in shaping the future of Watson Woodhouse & Macks Solicitors by making a positive difference in the lives of our clients and our team.


• Competitive salary reflecting your experience


• Company pension scheme


• 33 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays


• Discretionary annual bonus scheme


• Professional membership payments


• Professional development opportunities


• Employee referral scheme


• Christmas savings club


• Discounted legal services