Criminal Defence Solicitor 3+ PQE (duty status not required)


Company:	IPS Group Limited
Salary:	£35,000 to £60,000 a year
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Greater Manchester, M2 2JG
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	30 Sept 2026
Closing date:	29 Oct 2026

Apply for this job

Summary

A well-established and growing law firm is seeking an experienced Criminal Defence Solicitor to join its busy and highly regarded Criminal Defence team in Rochdale.

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated solicitor to join a supportive and collaborative practice offering a varied caseload, genuine career development opportunities, and a positive working environment where teamwork and professional excellence go hand in hand.

The Opportunity

Working as part of a dedicated Criminal Defence team, you will manage a broad caseload of criminal matters including road traffic. You will provide expert advice and representation to clients throughout the criminal justice process.

The role offers exposure to a wide range of work including police station attendance, Magistrates' Court advocacy, Crown Court preparation, and ongoing client management. Duty Solicitor status is not required but you must be police station accredited.

Key Responsibilities

- Managing a varied criminal defence caseload including road traffic matters from instruction through to conclusion

- Preparing cases to a high standard and developing defence strategies

- Attending police stations

- Conducting advocacy in Magistrates Court

- Preparing Crown Court matters and liaising with counsel

- Building and maintaining strong client relationships

- Working closely with experts, external agencies, and key stakeholders

- Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid Agency and SRA requirements

About You

Applications are welcomed from enthusiastic candidates who are looing to progress their career within criminal defence. Ideally you will have:

- At least 3 years' PQE in Criminal Defence (Solicitor or CILEX)

- Strong advocacy, communication, and client care skills

- Excellent organisational and case management ability

- A proactive and professional approach to client representation

- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team

- Full driving licence preferred, although not essential

What's on Offer?

- Competitive salary of £35,000 - £60,000 depending on experience

- High-quality and varied criminal defence caseload

- Supportive and collaborative team environment

- Strong professional development and progression opportunities

- Friendly firm culture with an emphasis on teamwork and mutual support

- Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious practice

Apply Now

If you are a Criminal Defence Solicitor looking for your next opportunity within a supportive and forward-thinking firm then apply today.

Apply for this job

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

About Disability Confident

Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.