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VG Charles & Co

Permanent · West Midlands / East Midlands

Newly Qualified Criminal Defence Solicitor

Location
West Midlands, East Midlands
Salary
Negotiable
Role level
Solicitor
Practice area
Criminal
Sector
Private Practice
Posted
27 October 2026
Reference
12424

The role

Midlands | Hybrid & Remote Working Available

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Newly Qualified Criminal Defence Solicitor to join a specialist legal practice with a strong focus on private criminal defence and regulatory matters.

This role offers an excellent opportunity for an NQ solicitor to develop their expertise while working alongside experienced practitioners on complex and often high-profile cases. The position would suit someone with a genuine interest in criminal defence who is keen to build a career handling challenging and varied matters.

The Role

The successful candidate will work on a varied caseload, including:

  • Advising and representing professional clients facing criminal investigations, prosecutions and regulatory proceedings.

  • Assisting with complex criminal litigation, including matters proceeding through the Crown Court.

  • Handling regulatory cases and providing advice on related legal issues.

  • Preparing cases, reviewing evidence and liaising with clients and other legal professionals.

  • Attending police station interviews across the Midlands area, as required.

You will benefit from working closely with senior and experienced legal practitioners, gaining valuable exposure to complex matters and developing your practical skills.

The Ideal Candidate

  • NQ – 2 years PQE with experience in criminal defence and regulatory law.

  • Strong analytical, research and written communication skills.

  • A professional and client-focused approach, with the ability to handle sensitive and complex matters.

  • Excellent organisation and attention to detail.

  • The motivation to develop technically and contribute to a specialist legal team.

The Benefits

  • Hybrid and remote working options to support a flexible working arrangement.

  • Competitive salary, dependent on experience.

  • The opportunity to work on complex criminal defence and regulatory matters.

  • Close support and development from experienced legal practitioners.

  • A full-time position offering scope to build a long-term career in specialist criminal law.

Police station attendance will be required within the Midlands area. Other interviews and client meetings will generally be arranged in advance, allowing for greater flexibility in planning your working week.

For more information on this opportunity or for general career advice in the strictest of confidence, please contact me, Jane Marshall at VG CHARLES &CO on 0121 233 5003 or mail jane.marshall@vgcharles.com

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