Yolk Recruitment Ltd
Criminal Solicitor

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Criminal Duty Solicitor
£Competitive
📍 Cardiff, and South Wales Valleys | Full Time | Permanent
Join a Growing Criminal Defence Team Where Your Work Truly Matters
A well-established and highly respected South Wales law firm is seeking an experienced Criminal Duty Solicitor to join its busy and expanding Crime & Regulatory department.
This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a supportive, forward-thinking firm with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services to individuals across the region. The firm prides itself on its people-focused culture, commitment to access to justice, and long-term investment in employee development.
The Role
You will handle a varied and rewarding caseload of criminal matters from initial instruction through to conclusion, providing expert advice and representation to clients at all stages of the criminal justice process.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing your own caseload of criminal matters independently
- Advising and taking instructions from clients at police stations, courts, and offices
- Representing clients at police stations and Magistrates' Courts
- Conducting advocacy where appropriate
- Preparing cases for court and briefing counsel when required
- Managing legal aid applications and compliance requirements
- Maintaining accurate file management, billing, and case progression
- Participating in the out-of-hours duty solicitor rota, including police station attendance and Saturday court
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You will work closely with an experienced and collaborative team and receive ongoing support from senior leadership.
About You
The successful candidate will:
- Be a qualified Duty Solicitor with experience across Criminal Law
- Be confident managing a caseload independently
- Possess excellent client care and communication skills
- Be organised, reliable, and able to work effectively under pressure
- Demonstrate strong professional and ethical standards


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Desirable:
- Higher Rights of Audience
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary dependent on experience and PQE
- 33 days annual leave including bank holidays
- Additional birthday leave
- Private medical insurance
- Life assurance
- Pension scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Employee wellbeing support
- Staff referral incentives
- Annual salary reviews
- High-quality IT equipment and remote working support where appropriate
- Genuine career progression opportunities
- Ongoing training and professional development support
The Opportunity
This role would suit a driven Criminal Solicitor looking to develop their career within a progressive and supportive environment where their contribution is genuinely valued.
If you are passionate about criminal defence work and want to join a firm with a strong reputation and ambitious growth plans, we would love to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion contact Daniel Mason at our head offices
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