Crime Head of Department Duty Solicitor

The Role

Crime Head of Department / Duty Solicitor - Greater Manchester - Up to £75,000 + Benefits + Free parking

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Criminal Legal Aid Supervising Solicitor to support the launch and development of a new Criminal Law department at a growing and ambitious law firm based in Stockport.

This is a key strategic hire, offering the chance to play a leading role in building and shaping the Criminal law department ahead of securing a crime contract and launching duty rota coverage. With autonomy in your own role in a Senior Position, you will execute a clear growth strategy and support their plans of expanding towards a full-service offering and opening further offices across the UK.

Key Responsibilities:

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• Acting as Legal Aid Supervisor, ensuring compliance with LAA requirements
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• Providing supervision, mentoring, and training to junior fee earners
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• Maintaining quality and compliance standards
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• Assisting in establishing processes and infrastructure for the crime department
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• Managing caseload of criminal matters (both private and legally aided)
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• Preparing the firm for duty rota participation (Manchester/Stockport)
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• Contributing to the wider growth and long-term strategy of the department
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• Advising and representing clients at Police stations and Magistrates courts
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The Candidate:

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• Qualified Solicitor with 5+ PQE in criminal law
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• LAA Supervisor status (essential)
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• Strong experience in legal aid crime work and compliance
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• Previous supervisory or leadership experience
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• Higher Rights of Audience (preferred, not essential)
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• Ability to operate at a senior level within a growing team
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The Benefits and How to Apply:

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• Excellent Salary up to £75,000 (DOE)
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• Hybrid and flexible working available (3 days office / 2 days home)
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• Free on-site parking
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• Private dental care
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• Open to tailoring additional benefits based on individual preferences
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Apply in the strictest confidence online or via telephone.

Contact: Abigail Lockett, Retained Recruitment Consultant

Direct Dial: 0161 826 3140 | Mobile: 07494 821 014

Email: [email protected]

More About William James Recruitment

William James Recruitment is a specialist legal recruitment consultancy, partnering with leading law firms across the UK and internationally. We work with a range of highly regarded clients, including Legal 500-ranked firms, advising on senior and strategic appointments