Criminal Defence Associate
London – £80,000 - £90,000
Join a well respected City firm in London and handle complex and high-profile criminal matters for private clients, professionals, and public figures.This is a genuine opportunity for a 2-4 PQE Solicitor to work in a close-knit team known for discretion, quality of representation, and results.
What You'll Do
- Manage a varied criminal caseload across police station, Magistrates' and Crown Court matters.
- Advise on serious and general crime, from investigations through to trial.
- Represent clients in person and coordinate with leading counsel.
- Prepare cases with precision and provide clear, strategic advice throughout proceedings.
- Contribute to client relationship management and the firm's continued success in this specialist field.
- Advise clients during arrest, interview, or charge.
- Handle urgent out-of-hours representations.
- Advise on bail, evidence disclosure, and next procedural steps.
- Liaisewith investigators (e.g. police, NCA, HMRC, FCA, SFO).
- 2-4 years' PQE with solid experience in criminal defence.
- Police Station Accreditation (essential).
- Confident advocacy and negotiation skills.
- Clear communication and excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
- A genuine commitment to client care and access to justice.
The Team
You'll join a well-established Dispute Resolution department comprising several Partners and a full-service team covering commercial disputes, IP, insolvency, property, crime, sport, and education. The criminal law group is recognised for its meticulous casework, trusted client base, and hands-on involvement in sensitive, high-profile matters.
Why Apply
This role offers exposure to challenging, high-stakes work alongside leading practitioners — all within a supportive, boutique environment that values quality, precision, and discretion.
If you're a criminal defence solicitor ready to take the next step in a respected, top-tier team, this is an opportunity worth exploring.
Dalton is an Associate Recruitment Consultant at Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment, having been with the company for over two years. He focuses on the American market, where his key duties include sourcing and placing top legal talent with leading firms and corporations, managing the job search process, and providing career guidance and market insights to candidates. Dalton stays informed of industry trends and developments to best serve both his clients and candidates. After earning his law degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, Dalton spent 9 months as a Legal Recruitment Consultant focusing on the Texas market before joining Douglas Scott. In his spare time, he enjoys going to the gym, exploring Manchester’s public houses and eateries, and watching Erik’s Mighty Reds on the weekend.
Apply Now
Job Spec:
- Area of Law: Criminal Law - General
- Type: Solicitor / FILEX
- Salary: £80,000 - £90,000
- Term: Permanent
- Location: London
- Reference: 1296542
