Head of Crime – Duty Solicitor

We are currently recruiting for a Head of Crime – Duty Solicitor to lead and grow a new Criminal Defence team based in St Albans. This is a rare and exciting leadership opportunity for a dynamic and experienced criminal defence solicitor to help shape a new department and take ownership of team development, operational performance, and strategic direction. The role is ideally suited to a Duty Solicitor with strong leadership experience, a passion for criminal defence, and a desire to build and manage a high-performing team.

This is a standout opportunity for an ambitious Duty Solicitor ready to take on a leadership challenge and shape the future of a growing criminal defence team.

The Role

• Recruit, lead, and supervise a new team of 3–4 solicitors (duty and newly qualified).
• Handle a personal caseload of criminal defence matters across a full range of offences.
• Provide police station representation and conduct Magistrates’ Court advocacy (and Crown Court where Higher Rights apply).
• Work with senior management to establish best practices and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Mentor junior lawyers and support their professional development.
• Ensure exceptional client care and timely case progression.
• Contribute to the overall growth and direction of the criminal law offering.

The Person

• At least 3 years’ PQE in criminal defence.
• Current Duty Solicitor accreditation.
• Proven experience leading or supervising legal teams.
• Excellent advocacy skills and the ability to manage a high-volume caseload.
• A proactive, organised, and solutions-driven mindset.
• Confidence working in a paperless, tech-enabled environment.
• A strong commitment to publicly funded legal work and access to justice.

Benefits to you

• Competitive salary starting at £60,000, depending on experience.
• Hybrid working model supported by modern IT systems.
• 25 days’ annual leave (plus bank holidays and office closures at Christmas/New Year), increasing with length of service.
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Optional Benenden Health Care.
• Firm-provided laptop and phone, plus dual-screen office setup.
• Supportive administrative structure including inbound call handling, dictation support, and IT assistance to reduce your non-billable workload.
• Ongoing training, career development, and supervision support.
• Regular appraisals and salary reviews.
• Firm-wide Summer and Christmas parties.
• Structured career progression pathway.

If you have not heard back from us within 10 days your application has been unsuccessful.