William James Recruitment
Crime Solicitor

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Criminal Defence Solicitor – Manchester City Centre - Excellent Benefits
We are working with a well-established law firm to recruit a Criminal Defence Solicitor to join its growing Crime team in Manchester.
This is an excellent opportunity for a solicitor with experience in criminal law to develop their career within a supportive and collaborative environment, handling a varied caseload and gaining valuable advocacy and client-facing experience.
The role offers exposure to a broad range of criminal defence matters, with opportunities to develop your advocacy skills and work alongside experienced practitioners.
The Role:
- Manage a varied caseload of criminal defence matters for both privately and publicly funded clients
- Attend court hearings and represent clients at police stations where required
- Undertake advocacy in the Magistrates’ Court, with appropriate support and development
- Prepare legal advice, correspondence and case documentation
- Review evidence and assist with case preparation
- Liaise with clients, courts, counsel and other relevant parties
- Support senior lawyers on more complex matters
- Manage deadlines and maintain accurate case records
- Ensure work is carried out in accordance with professional and regulatory requirements
- Contribute to the wider team and continued development of the practice
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
About You:
- Qualified Solicitor with previous experience in criminal law
- Strong understanding of criminal law and court procedures
- Good advocacy and client representation skills
- Excellent communication and client care abilities
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Able to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
- Confident using IT and case management systems
- Proactive and motivated with a collaborative approach
- Comfortable working independently while contributing effectively as part of a team
The Benefits:


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- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
- Modern Manchester city centre office
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Clear opportunities for career progression
- Exposure to a varied and interesting criminal caseload
- Support and mentoring from experienced practitioners
- Retail and gym membership discounts
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
Apply in the strictest confidence online or via telephone
Contact: Abigail Lockett, Retained Recruitment Consultant
- Direct Dial: 0161 826 3140
- Mobile: 07494 821 014
- Email: Abigail.Lockett@williamjamesrecruitment.com
More About William James Recruitment
William James Recruitment is a specialist legal recruitment consultancy, partnering with leading law firms across the UK and internationally. We work with a range of highly regarded clients, including Legal 500-ranked firms, advising on senior and strategic appointments.
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