Criminal Defence Solicitor
Duty accredited preferred | All levels considered | part-time/flexible working
Application deadline: Friday 6th November
About Lawtons Solicitors
Lawtons Solicitors is an established, award-winning specialist criminal defence practice and one of the largest criminal defence firms in the South East.
We undertake a broad range of legally aided and privately funded criminal work, representing clients from the earliest stages of a police investigation through to proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court.
Our expertise and client-focused approach have been recognised by The Times Best Law Firms, The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners.
We are now looking for a Criminal Defence Solicitor to join our expanding team at all levels.
The Role
This is an opportunity to undertake high-quality and varied criminal defence work within a busy specialist practice.
You will have the opportunity to manage your own caseload at the police station and Magistrates’ Court, while also developing your experience of Crown Court litigation and privately funded work.
The role offers genuine responsibility, but with the support of experienced solicitors, caseworkers, paralegals and support staff.
What You Will Do
• Meet and advise clients facing criminal allegations and provide clear and practical advice.
• Manage your own caseload, often supporting clients from the police station through to trial.
• Instruct Counsel in Crown Court proceedings where appropriate.
• Maintain well-managed and Lexcel compliant files.
• Support and, where appropriate, guide trainees, paralegals and legal support staff.
What We Are Looking For
We welcome applications from solicitors at different stages of their careers, from newly qualified solicitors through to experienced criminal practitioners with an existing client following
Ideally, you will:
• Be a qualified solicitor with a genuine commitment to criminal defence.
• Hold Duty Solicitor accreditation, or be committed to obtaining it.
• Have a strong commitment to excellent client care.
• Have good written communication and advocacy skills.
• Be organised and capable of managing a busy caseload with good IT skills.
• The ability to work as part of a team.
What We Offer
• High-quality, varied and interesting criminal defence work.
• Excellent practical experience across police station, Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court cases.
• A combination of legally aided and privately funded criminal work.
• A friendly collegiate working environment that fosters support & development
• Excellent caseworker and administrative support.
• Genuine opportunities for career progression and increased responsibility.
Why Join Lawtons?
Lawtons offers the opportunity to progress your career within an established specialist practice with an excellent reputation. We do not have a high turnover of staff and that recognises our commitment to developing a sustainable long term team.
We have a varied mix of interesting and challenging cases and support is always available from experienced colleagues. We have a modern flexible approach to work that is underpinned by strong IT systems and support.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a short covering letter to stephenhalloran@lawtonslaw.co.uk, using the subject line:
“Criminal Defence Solicitor Application”
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. If you want to have a discrete discussion about the role, please email and we can arrange a call.
Application deadline: Friday 6th November
