Criminal Solicitor

OverviewJob Title: Criminal Solicitor : Legal Aid

Location: Bristol

Salary: Up to GBP 50,000 DOE

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

A well-established Bristol-based law firm is seeking a dedicated and driven Criminal Solicitor to join their expanding Criminal Defence team. This role is ideal for solicitors with a strong grounding in criminal legal aid work, particularly at police station, Magistrates'', and Crown Court levels.

Whether you''re newly qualified or bring several years of post-qualification experience, this position offers excellent career development within a supportive and experienced team.

Responsibilities

Represent clients in police stations, Magistrates'' Court, and Crown Court proceedings

Manage a varied caseload of publicly funded criminal defence matters

Provide clear and effective legal advice to clients at all stages of the criminal process

Prepare cases for trial, including briefing counsel and liaising with third parties

Attend and advise clients during interviews under caution

Ensure compliance with LAA requirements and firm procedures

Work collaboratively with the wider team including consultants, support staff, and external representatives

About You

Qualified solicitor (NQ+ considered)

Police Station Accreditation essential

Experience in managing own criminal caseload under legal aid

Strong advocacy and client care skills

Able to work independently and as part of a busy team

Crown Court experience and Duty Solicitor status desirable but not essential

The TeamYou''ll be joining a small but effective team comprising senior leadership, experienced criminal consultants, and an efficient administrative support unit including receptionists, secretaries, and a billing clerk. The majority of police station attendances are handled by representatives, allowing solicitors to focus on progression and advocacy.

Why Join This Firm?

Competitive salary based on experience

Collegiate team environment

Opportunities for progression and skill development

Real responsibility and autonomy from day one

Central Bristol location

Contact Alicia Forde at eNL on 454 or email with your CV or simply call for a confidential discussion.

eNL will never share your CV with a third party without your express permission. As part of our candidate care process, we aim to respond to all applications in 7 days. If you have not been contacted within this timescale, your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. Please note our advertisements use PQE/salary levels purely as a guide.

At eNL we value diversity and inclusion. We want to attract people at all levels and encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates whatever your ethnicity, religion, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any characteristics protected by law in the jurisdictions in which we ..... full job details .....