We know the criminal justice system is under real pressure right now — but in the middle of it all, there are still firms doing things the right way. We're working with one of them: a well-established, Lexcel-accredited practice with an outstanding reputation across the South-East. They’re growing their Duty Solicitor teams, and keen to hear from qualified solicitors at all levels of PQE who want to make a difference.

You’ll be working with both legally aided and private clients, supporting them from police station through to court. The firm has a dedicated team structure — split across North and South Essex, with a separate group in Ipswich — so you’ll have support around you, not just cases on your desk.

What you’ll be doing:

• Attending police stations (during the day and sometimes out of hours — and yes, any overtime is fully paid)

• Representing clients in the Magistrates’ Court, including advocacy and trial work

• Managing your own caseload and progressing files independently

• Acting as a litigator in Crown Court cases where needed

• Giving clear, confident advice to clients at what’s often a difficult time

• Working closely with your team to keep things running smoothly

This firm isn’t just ticking boxes — they genuinely value the people who choose to do publicly funded work, and they back that up with a supportive culture, proper resources, and opportunities to progress. If you’re a Duty Solicitor with strong advocacy skills and a real commitment to criminal defence, they’d love to hear from you.