Hays
Criminal Defence Solicitor NQ - 3 PQE

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This is an exciting opportunity to join a highly regarded and long-established law firm with a strong reputation for criminal defence work. The firm has a well-established criminal litigation team undertaking a broad range of complex and high-quality matters across England and Wales. With a collaborative culture and a genuine commitment to employee development, this is an excellent environment for criminal lawyers looking to build a successful long-term career.
Your new role
You will join a specialist criminal defence team handling a varied caseload spanning the full spectrum of criminal matters. The work includes police station attendance, Magistrates' Court advocacy and Crown Court cases, with exposure to serious and complex offences. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your advocacy and technical skills while working alongside experienced criminal defence specialists.
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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?
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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.
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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.
The firm is open to applications from newly qualified solicitors through to experienced criminal defence lawyers and can offer genuine opportunities for progression and specialisation.
What you'll need to succeed
You should be a qualified solicitor with experience in criminal defence work, although applications from NQ solicitors with relevant training seat experience are also encouraged.
You will have:
- A genuine interest in criminal defence law
- Excellent client care and communication skills
- Strong organisational and case management abilities
- The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
- A commitment to delivering high-quality legal services
Duty Solicitor accreditation would be advantageous but is not essential.
What you'll get in return
This is an excellent opportunity for a criminal defence solicitor looking to further their career within a successful and growing practice. You will join a supportive and well-respected team offering high-quality work, excellent training and genuine career development opportunities. The firm provides a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible working arrangements, pension provision, enhanced leave entitlement and a range of wellbeing initiatives.


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What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'Apply Now' to submit your CV or contact David Bartley at Hays Legal for a confidential discussion about this opportunity or your wider career plans. Email: David Bartley Direct Dial: 0161 228 7770
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