Criminal Defence Solicitor – Bristol – 2+ Years PQE
Location: Central Bristol
Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time (with hybrid flexibility after probation)
Salary: £38,000 to £48,000 (DOE)

A well established law firm is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Criminal Defence Solicitor with 2+ years’ PQE to join its respected Criminal Defence team in Bristol. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career within a supportive and collaborative environment, handling a diverse caseload of privately funded criminal matters.

The Role
You’ll manage a varied caseload of non legally aided criminal defence work, providing high quality legal advice and representation across a broad range of offences. The caseload may include:

• Road Traffic Offences
• Violent Offences
• Sexual Offences
• Drug Offences
• Theft and Dishonesty Offences
• Food Safety and Hygiene Prosecutions
• Environmental Offences
• Health and Safety Prosecutions
• Local Authority Prosecutions
• Rogue Trader matters

You will work closely with clients, Counsel, experts and regulators to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Analysing prosecution evidence and advising clients on risks and strategy
• Advising clients throughout investigations and proceedings
• Drafting witness statements, legal submissions and mitigation bundles
• Preparing, organising and summarising case materials
• Liaising with courts, coroners, regulators (including HSE, CQC), police and experts
• Preparing Defence Case Statements and supporting case strategy
• Attending interviews under caution, inquests, hearings and trials with Counsel
• Conducting legal and regulatory research
• Reviewing medical records, post mortem reports, transcripts and CCTV
• Coordinating client meetings, site visits and expert appointments
• Maintaining accurate case records and ensuring compliance
• Supporting clients with professionalism and sensitivity in high pressure situations

Candidate Requirements
This role is suited to a qualified solicitor with:

• A current practising certificate
• Demonstrable experience in criminal defence litigation
• Strong knowledge of criminal law, procedure and evidence
• Excellent advocacy, analytical and case management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing deadlines
• Commitment to delivering exceptional client care
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems

Desirable Experience

• Police Station Accreditation
• Duty Solicitor Accreditation
• Higher Rights of Audience (Criminal)
• Experience with regulatory investigations and prosecutions
• Experience attending police station interviews and representing clients under caution

Location and Working Hours

• This is a full time position based in the firm’s Bristol office.
• Office hours: 9:00am – 5:30pm, Monday to Friday.
• Hybrid working is available after probation (typically three days in the office, two from home).

Benefits
The firm offers:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Clear opportunities for progression
• Hybrid working following probation
• Exposure to a diverse and interesting caseload

How to Apply

If this opportunity sounds of interest or you’d like a confidential conversation about your next career move, please contact:

Email: oliviareed@chadwicknott.co.uk
Phone: 0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761

The firm is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. Adjustments to the recruitment process can be made to support individual needs.