As a Criminal Defence Paralegal, you'll manage your own supervised caseload whilst supporting solicitors on more complex matters. You'll work directly with clients, prepare cases, attend court and conferences, liaise with counsel and third parties, and help progress matters from initial instruction through to conclusion. You'll be trusted to take ownership of your work whilst having the support and guidance of experienced solicitors around you. This is a varied, fast-paced role where no two days are the same. It's ideal for someone looking to build on their existing experience and continue developing as a criminal defence professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing your own caseload under the supervision of a solicitor.
• Progressing matters proactively and ensuring clients are kept informed throughout their case.
• Supporting solicitors on a wide range of privately funded criminal defence matters.
• Preparing legal documents, court bundles and case papers.
• Liaising with clients, counsel, experts, courts, police forces and other third parties.
• Attending court hearings, conferences, client meetings and prison visits where required.
• Undertaking legal research and preparing case summaries.
• Assisting with conference and trial preparation.
• Managing and maintaining case files to a high standard.
• Delivering an exceptional level of client care throughout every stage of the case.
• Working collaboratively with colleagues to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who enjoys taking responsibility, has a strong work ethic and takes pride in doing things properly.

You'll already have experience working within private criminal defence and be comfortable managing competing priorities in a busy environment. You'll have excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail and the confidence to build positive relationships with clients, colleagues and external professionals.

Most importantly, you'll understand that great legal representation is about more than technical ability. It's about communication, empathy and supporting people through some of the most difficult periods of their lives.

Working Hours

Whilst this role does not form part of our out-of-hours on-call rota, criminal law isn't always a 9-5 profession.

There will be occasions where court deadlines, conferences, client requirements or operational demands mean that some flexibility is needed. There may also be times where work extends beyond normal office hours or occasionally into weekends in order to meet client or court deadlines.

Equally, whilst we aim to acknowledge client enquiries promptly, we believe in setting realistic expectations. Outside of normal working hours, there will be occasions where a substantive response will need to wait until the next working day unless the matter is genuinely urgent.

We believe in being open about the realities of the role from the outset. We work hard for our clients, but we also work as a team to manage expectations and create a supportive, sustainable working environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Your birthday off.
• Company pension.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• The opportunity to manage your own supervised caseload and continue developing your career.
• Close support and mentoring from experienced criminal defence solicitors.
• A supportive, collaborative and friendly working environment.
• Genuine opportunities for career progression.

Why Join Holborn Adams?

We're proud of the work we do and the way we do it.

We work with clients during some of the most challenging periods of their lives, and we're committed to providing not only outstanding legal representation but also exceptional client care. We're equally committed to creating a workplace where people can develop, take responsibility and build long-term careers. You'll be trusted with meaningful work, supported by experienced colleagues and encouraged to continue growing professionally.

Recruitment is a two-way process, so we'll always be open with you about what it's really like to work here. In return, we're looking for people who share our commitment to professionalism, teamwork and doing the right thing for our clients.

If you're looking for a role where you'll be given real responsibility, continue developing your legal career and become part of a Legal 500 recognised team that genuinely cares about both its clients and its people, we'd love to hear from you.