Head of Criminal Department (Duty Solicitor)
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The Askews Group is a well-established and respected legal practice committed to providing high-quality legal services to our clients. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Criminal Department who is also a committed and proficient Duty Solicitor to lead and develop our criminal law team. This is an exciting opportunity for a driven individual to shape the future of our criminal practice and contribute to the firm's continued success.
Location: Coventry, Warwickshire
Reporting to: Teerath Gill
Key Responsibilities:
1. Leadership and Management:
o Provide strong and effective leadership to the Criminal Department team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
o Develop and implement strategic plans for the growth and development of the Criminal Department, aligning with the firm's overall objectives.
o Oversee the day-to-day operations of the department, ensuring efficient workflow, adherence to procedures, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
o Manage and mentor fee earners and support staff within the department, including conducting performance reviews, identifying training needs, and promoting professional development.
o Allocate caseloads effectively and ensure appropriate levels of supervision and support are provided.
o Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial performance of the department, taking proactive steps to achieve targets.
o Contribute to the firm's overall management and strategic decision-making as part of the wider leadership team.
o Ensure the department maintains up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, case law, and best practices.
o Promote and maintain the firm's reputation for excellence in criminal law.
2. Casework and Advocacy:
o Maintain a significant caseload of criminal matters, representing clients across a broad range of offences.
o Provide expert legal advice and representation to clients at police stations, Magistrates' Courts, and Crown Courts.
o Conduct thorough case analysis, prepare legal arguments, and draft relevant documentation.
o Exercise strong advocacy skills in court proceedings, effectively representing clients' interests.
o Maintain a high level of technical expertise in criminal law and procedure.
3. Duty Solicitor Responsibilities:
o Act as a Duty Solicitor, providing legal advice and representation to individuals detained at police stations and attending court duty rotas as required.
o Ensure compliance with Legal Aid Agency Duty Solicitor Scheme requirements and protocols.
o Effectively manage and prioritise urgent and often complex situations encountered as a Duty Solicitor.
4. Business Development:
o Identify and pursue opportunities for business development and growth within the criminal law sector.
o Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the police, courts, and other relevant organisations.
o Participate in networking events and contribute to the firm's marketing and business development initiatives.
5. Compliance and Quality Assurance:
o Ensure the Criminal Department operates in full compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements, including the SRA Code of Conduct and Legal Aid Agency guidelines.
o Implement and maintain robust quality assurance procedures to ensure the delivery of high-quality legal services.
o Address any complaints or concerns effectively and professionally.
Person Specification:
1. Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales with significant post-qualification experience (PQE) in criminal law.
2. Accredited Duty Solicitor with a proven track record of effectively undertaking Duty Solicitor responsibilities.
3. Demonstrable experience in leading and managing a team, with strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
4. Excellent technical knowledge of criminal law and procedure, including experience in a wide range of criminal cases.
5. Strong advocacy skills and experience of representing clients in various court settings.
6. Proven ability to manage a complex caseload and work effectively under pressure.
7. Excellent organisational and time management skills.
8. Strong business acumen and a proactive approach to business development.
9. Commitment to providing exceptional client care.
10. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
11. Excellent IT skills and proficiency in case management systems.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Legal
Industries
Legal Services
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