Senior Associate Solicitor - Crime

Senior Associate – Criminal Law

Location: Leeds (Hybrid working available)

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Associate to join a growing Criminal Law team at an exciting stage of expansion.

This is a strong opportunity to step into a varied, high-quality caseload and play a key role in shaping the continued growth of a dynamic and forward-thinking practice. You will work across the full spectrum of criminal law, with genuine scope to take ownership of complex matters, support junior colleagues, and contribute to wider team development.

Hybrid working is available, with flexibility to balance office presence, remote working, and travel to client sites and court locations as required.

Why apply?

Join a growing Criminal Law team at a pivotal point in its development
Handle a varied and complex caseload across the full range of criminal law
Leeds-based role with hybrid working flexibility
Opportunity to supervise and mentor junior team members
Strong focus on wellbeing, development, and sustainable working practices
Exposure to business development and client relationship building
Collaborative and supportive working environment

Key Responsibilities

Manage a complex caseload independently, delivering high-quality legal services throughout
Represent clients at Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court hearings
Conduct police station attendances and PACE interviews
Supervise, mentor, and support junior lawyers
Build and maintain strong client relationships, including meetings in person and off-site
Work collaboratively with colleagues across the team
Contribute to team meetings, case strategy discussions, and knowledge sharing
Engage in ongoing professional development and stay up to date with legal and regulatory changes
Support business development and marketing initiatives, including networking and client engagement

Requirements

Essential

Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with significant criminal law experience (regulatory experience advantageous)
Higher Rights of Audience (essential)
Strong advocacy experience in Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court proceedings
Experience conducting police station and PACE interviews
Proven ability to manage a caseload independently
Strong drafting, file management, and client relationship skills
Experience supervising or mentoring junior colleagues
Demonstrable involvement in business development and client engagement
Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
Strong organisational skills and ability to work independently and within a team
Willingness and ability to travel to courts, police stations, prisons, and client sites as required
Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends depending on client needs

Desirable

Track record of successful business development activity
Regulatory experience