Criminal Defence Solicitor

Criminal Defence Solicitor

Richard Nelson LLP

Location: Nottingham

Department: Criminal Defence Team

Reports to: Partner

About Richard Nelson LLP

Richard Nelson LLP is an Award-Winning National Firm of Solicitors and Consultants providing specialist legal services to professionals, businesses and individuals throughout England and Wales. Established in 2003 by Senior Partner Richard Nelson, a leading professional disciplinary Lawyer, we have grown to include some of the country's most respected Lawyers and Consultants among our Team. We are passionate about achieving the best possible outcome for every client, combining robust legal representation with approachability and straightforward honest advice. Our core values of Integrity, Expertise, Passion, Approachability, Straightforwardness and Tenacity guide everything we do.

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Criminal Defence Solicitor to join our specialist Criminal Law Team. This role offers the opportunity to work on a diverse range of private Criminal Law matters. Our practice defends individuals and companies prosecuted by a wide range of authorities including: Police, CPS, SFO, HMRC, FCA, NCA, RSPCA and other regulated bodies. The successful candidate will provide confidential, high‑quality legal advice and representation to clients facing investigation or prosecution. You will guide clients through every stage of their case, ensuring they fully understand their options and receive consistent, professional support. Within this role, you will deliver a thorough, client‑focused service, handling each matter with sensitivity, discretion, and efficiency. You will work to minimise the impact of proceedings on clients personal and professional lives while maintaining exceptional standards of care throughout. As part of our Team, you will provide specialist legal support to clients navigating these complexities, ensuring they receive expert guidance tailored to their individual circumstances. The firm works on a nationwide basis, so some travel is expected to attend police stations and court.

Key Responsibilities - Including but not limited to:

Case Management

• Conduct cases effectively and efficiently on behalf of clients in accordance with the Firm's policies and objectives.
• Manage a varied caseload across multiple areas of Criminal Law.
• Ensure all work is carried out to the highest professional standards.
• Maintain efficient and cost-effective work practices.
• Utilise case management systems and IT effectively.

Client Representation

• Act for clients across the full spectrum of criminal legal matters, providing advice, preparation and representation at every stage.
• Represent a wide variety of private paying clients in matters involving, Road Traffic Offences, Sexual Offences and Fraud Defence.
• Handle Companies House prosecutions as well as matters involving Trading Standards, Environmental Health, BEIS & Health & Safety Investigations.
• Manage specialist criminal matters including defence of Military personnel, complex frauds, POCA proceedings, and confiscation cases.
• Work on complex sexual offences cases including internet-based offences and historical allegations.
• Attend Police Stations and Courts nationwide to provide representation as required.
• Receive training and support from our experienced team of Criminal Lawyers.

Professional Development

• Pro-actively contribute to the development and promotion of the Firm's high standards and reputation.
• Participate in business development and promotion of the Firm's Criminal law services.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Criminal Law and relevant regulatory changes.

Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with our Partner (Jacqui Callan) and the wider team of specialist Criminal Lawyers.
• Liaise with all Partners on specific firm-wide matters where required.
• Contribute to the team's collective expertise and knowledge sharing.

Essential Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Solicitor with current practicing certificate - 7 years PQE minimum.
• Proven experience of acting for clients in Criminal law cases.
• Demonstrable track record of successful case outcomes.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent negotiating experience and skills.
• Outstanding oral and written communication abilities.
• Strong client care and relationship management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a specialist team.
• Efficient time management and organisational skills.

Professional Knowledge

• Thorough understanding of the obligations of working as a Solicitor, including ethical obligations.
• Knowledge and proficient use of case management systems and IT.
• Thorough understanding of criminal legislation and how to succeed in cases.

Personal Attributes

• Commitment to achieving the best outcomes for clients.
• Passionate about criminal law and court advocacy.
• Approachable manner with ability to explain complex legal matters clearly.
• Tenacious and determined approach to casework.
• High standards of integrity and professionalism.

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary
• Death in Service (x3 Salary), Private Medical Insurance & Generous Holiday Allowance.
• The opportunity to work within a specialist Criminal Law team.
• Training and support from our experienced team of Criminal Law specialists with diverse backgrounds and legal knowledge.
• A collaborative working environment that values expertise and client service.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Effective Case Management and Compliance Systems.
• The chance to make a tangible difference in criminal defence, guiding clients through the complexities of the criminal justice system.

Equal Opportunities and Diversity

Richard Nelson LLP is an equal opportunities employer, committed to increasing diversity in our Firm and our wider profession.

How to Apply

To apply for this position or to discuss the role in more detail, please contact:

Natasha Kirkby – Inhouse Recruiter

Richard Nelson LLP

Email: [email protected]

Direct Dial: 0115 822 0850 (Ext 942)

Connect with me on LinkedIn: Natasha Kirkby FREC DipRP | LinkedIn

We look forward to hearing from qualified candidates who share our values and commitment to excellence in Criminal Law.