Crime - Duty Solicitor (Essex + Suffolk)

I’m recruiting on behalf of a respected regional law firm with a strong commitment to publicly funded criminal defence. They currently have exciting Duty Solicitor vacancies across their Essex and Suffolk teams, covering courts in Southend, Basildon, Colchester, Chelmsford, and Ipswich.

Key points:

• Duty Solicitor accreditation not essential, but candidates must be eager to qualify in the near future. If you’re already in training, they’re happy to transfer and support your accreditation.
• Genuine work from home flexibility — the firm fully understands the importance of this in attracting top talent.
• The firm is open to candidates from competitors and values fast-moving recruitment — if they want you, they won’t waste time.
• Interviews usually just one stage, and will be held in person

The Role:

• Provide comprehensive legal services to legally aided and private clients
• Attend police stations both during and outside office hours (overtime fully remunerated)
• Provide advice and advocacy at Magistrates’ Courts and conduct your own cases, including trials
• Manage your own caseload with increasing responsibility

Candidate Profile:

• Qualified solicitor, with either current Duty Solicitor accreditation or a clear intention to obtain it soon
• Experience representing clients at police stations, Magistrates’ Courts, and Crown Courts
• Comfortable managing your own caseload and conducting all levels of advocacy
• All PQE levels considered—what matters is your motivation and ability

About the Firm:

• A large regional Lexcel-accredited practice with 5 offices across East Anglia
• Committed to publicly funded legal services alongside private family, company, commercial, conveyancing, and regulatory work
• Strong focus on career progression and professional development
• Supportive, flexible working environment

Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience (open but realistic)
• Genuine scope for career progression
• Flexible working options, including home working

Interested?
If you are ready to take the next step in your criminal defence career and want to work with a firm that values quality and flexibility, please get in touch with your CV and interview availability.
This is a fast-moving recruitment process, so don’t delay—if they want you, they will move quickly.