Criminal Defence Solicitor - Bristol - 2+ Years PQE

Criminal Defence Solicitor - Bristol - 2+ Years PQE
Location: Central Bristol
Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time (with hybrid flexibility after probation)
Salary: £38,000 to £48,000 (DOE)

A well established law firm is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Criminal Defence Solicitor with 2+ years' PQE to join its respected Criminal Defence team in Bristol. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career within a supportive and collaborative environment, handling a diverse caseload of privately funded criminal matters.

The Role
You'll manage a varied caseload of non legally aided criminal defence work, providing high quality legal advice and representation across a broad range of offences. The caseload may include:

• Road Traffic Offences
• Violent Offences
• Sexual Offences
• Drug Offences
• Theft and Dishonesty Offences
• Food Safety and Hygiene Prosecutions
• Environmental Offences
• Health and Safety Prosecutions
• Local Authority Prosecutions
• Rogue Trader matters

You will work closely with clients, Counsel, experts and regulators to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Analysing prosecution evidence and advising clients on risks and strategy
• Advising clients throughout investigations and proceedings
• Drafting witness statements, legal submissions and mitigation bundles
• Preparing, organising and summarising case materials
• Liaising with courts, coroners, regulators (including HSE, CQC), police and experts
• Preparing Defence Case Statements and supporting case strategy
• Attending interviews under caution, inquests, hearings and trials with Counsel
• Conducting legal and regulatory research
• Reviewing medical records, post mortem reports, transcripts and CCTV
• Coordinating client meetings, site visits and expert appointments
• Maintaining accurate case records and ensuring compliance
• Supporting clients with professionalism and sensitivity in high pressure situations

Candidate Requirements
This role is suited to a qualified solicitor with:

• A current practising certificate
• Demonstrable experience in criminal defence litigation
• Strong knowledge of criminal law, procedure and evidence
• Excellent advocacy, analytical and case management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing deadlines
• Commitment to delivering exceptional client care
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems

Desirable Experience

• Police Station Accreditation
• Duty Solicitor Accreditation
• Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal)
• Experience with regulatory investigations and prosecutions
• Experience attending police station interviews and representing clients under caution

Location and Working Hours

• This is a full time position based in the firm's Bristol office.
• Office hours: 9:00am - 5:30pm, Monday to Friday.
• Hybrid working is available after probation (typically three days in the office, two from home).

Benefits
The firm offers:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Clear opportunities for progression
• Hybrid working following probation
• Exposure to a diverse and interesting caseload

How to Apply

If this opportunity sounds of interest or you'd like a confidential conversation about your next career move, please contact:

Email: oliviareed@chadwicknott.co.uk
Phone: 0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761

The firm is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. Adjustments to the recruitment process can be made to support individual needs.

*At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.*