Privately Funded Criminal Defence

  • Leeds
  • Permanent
  • £38,000 - £50,000 per annum

Looking to step beyond Legal Aid and into a truly specialist criminal defence practice? A place where your work directly impacts people’s lives, your expertise is respected, and you can build a career in a niche, high-demand area? This is your chance.

We’re working with a highly regarded, forward-thinking criminal defence team that handles some of the most sensitive and complex cases in the UK, including serious sexual offences. This isn’t standard Legal Aid work – it’s a rare opportunity to specialise, develop your skills, and make a meaningful difference in clients’ lives.

About the Role

  • Join a close-knit, dynamic team known for professionalism, empathy, and calm under pressure.
  • Work on intellectually challenging cases, from general criminal matters to high-profile or sensitive sexual offence cases.
  • Provide guidance and support to clients navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives, including allegations of rape, sexual assault, indecent images, and offences involving children.
  • Receive full mentoring and guidance – prior exposure isn’t essential; what matters is empathy, integrity, and a passion to learn.
  • Some travel (around once a week) gives variety and helps you build connections across the criminal defence community.

Who You Are

  • NQ–2 PQE Criminal Solicitor with a genuine interest in specialising in sexual offences.
  • Empathetic, professional, and client-focused, able to inspire trust and remain calm under pressure.
  • A proactive team player willing to roll up your sleeves and get involved.
  • Comfortable with occasional travel and the variety that comes with specialist criminal work.

What’s on Offer

  • Mentoring from approachable, highly experienced senior solicitors.
  • Real progression opportunities and hands-on experience with serious, complex cases.
  • A supportive, forward-thinking environment that values emotional intelligence as much as technical skill.
  • Competitive salary and benefits.

This is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to carve out a career in a niche area of criminal defence, develop unmatched expertise, and make a tangible impact in people’s lives.

Apply To This Role