Shearman Bowen and Co, a law firm specialising in defending individuals and companies subject to criminal investigation and proceedings, are seeking to recruit two dynamic and dedicated Criminal Defence Solicitors to join our expanding team:
- Newly Qualified Solicitor (NQ)
- Solicitor with 3+ Years’ Post-Qualification Experience (PQE)
Both roles will involve managing a varied caseload of private and legal aid matters.
Key responsibilities
- Advising and representing clients in all aspects of criminal law, including police station attendances, Magistrates’ Court, and Crown Court matters.
- Preparing cases for trial, including legal research, drafting, and advocacy.
- Liaising with clients, counsel, experts, and other professionals.
- Assisting in marketing and promoting the firm.
Newly qualified solicitor
- Admitted as a Solicitor in England and Wales.
- Keen and established interest in criminal defence work.
- Strong advocacy and client care skills.
- Police station accredited (preferred).
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Ability to work effectively under supervision and as part of a team.
Solicitor (3 years’ PQE +)
- Minimum of three years’ post-qualification experience in criminal defence.
- Proven track record of managing a Crown Court caseload.
- Strong advocacy and client care skills.
- Ability to work independently and supervise junior staff as required.
Hours: Full time (9:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday).
Salary: Guide – newly qualified solicitor- £40,000. Solicitor – negotiable dependent on experience.
Benefits:
- Annual leave entitlement of 25 days (pro rata)
- Overtime payment for out of hours police station attendances.
- Remote working for part of the week once probationary period has been passed (but always subject to business needs).
- Private health cover.
Shearman Bowen has been an established and respected firm for 25 years and we have acted for clients in the many of the major criminal cases during that period. We specialise in all areas of criminal law and associated civil proceedings. The firm is noted for its expertise in the areas of business and general crime, asset forfeiture and regulatory matters relating to criminal law. We have been consistently ranked, along with many of its lawyers, in Chambers and the Legal 500. The firm receives instructions from individuals and companies (both in the UK and overseas) to advise on a variety of complex and interesting matters. We welcome applications from candidates who are committed to criminal law, have excellent client and written skills and who want to develop their careers in a forward thinking, hardworking and collegiate practice.
Please forward CV with covering letter to the senior partner at markb@shearmanbowen.co.uk. Closing date 14th August 2025 .
Please note that shortlisting for this role may take place as applications are received so we reserve the right to close the vacancy before the closing date.