Criminal Defence Paralegal (Police Station Accredited)

Criminal Defence Paralegal (Police Station Accredited Representative)

London (Waterloo)

30,000 - 40,000 + Benefits

An established and highly respected criminal defence practice is seeking a Criminal Defence Paralegal to join its specialist team based in Central London.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Police Station Accredited Representative looking to develop their career within a leading criminal defence practice renowned for handling serious and complex cases. The successful candidate will gain exposure to a broad range of matters, from everyday criminal defence work through to serious violence, organised crime, fraud, sexual offences and high-profile Crown Court litigation.

The firm has built a longstanding reputation for providing exceptional criminal defence representation and is committed to investing in the development of its staff. This role offers genuine progression opportunities, high levels of responsibility and regular client contact from day one.

The Criminal Defence Paralegal's Role

The successful Criminal Defence Paralegal will support solicitors and advocates on a varied caseload whilst also attending police stations independently as an Accredited Representative.

Responsibilities will include:

Attending police stations and advising clients under caution as an Accredited Representative

Providing out-of-hours and evening police station cover on a rota basis

Taking instructions from clients and advising on criminal investigations

Managing criminal defence files and maintaining accurate case records

Preparing legal documents, briefs to counsel and client correspondence

Reviewing disclosure, witness statements, CCTV, interview recordings and evidential material

Assisting with the preparation of Magistrates' Court and Crown Court matters

Attending hearings, conferences and client meetings where required

Liaising with clients, counsel, police officers, courts, prisons and external agencies

Conducting legal research and preparing case summaries

Supporting solicitors on serious and complex criminal matters

Monitoring deadlines and ensuring compliance with procedural requirements

The Criminal Defence Paralegal

Police Station Accredited Representative status is essential

Previous experience within criminal defence

Ability to attend police stations throughout London, including evening and out-of-hours work

Strong working knowledge of criminal law and procedure

Excellent client care and communication skills

Experience handling legally aided criminal matters

Organised and able to manage competing priorities effectively

Professional, resilient and able to perform under pressure

Strong drafting, file management and case preparation skills

Full UK driving licence would be advantageous but is not essential

In Return?

30,000 - 40,000 salary depending on experience

Additional remuneration for police station attendance and out-of-hours work

Exposure to complex and high-profile criminal defence matters

Structured training and professional development

Ongoing supervision and mentoring from experienced criminal defence lawyers

Clear progression opportunities

Pension scheme

Generous annual leave entitlement

Supportive and collaborative working environment

Modern Central London office location

This is an excellent opportunity for a Police Station Accredited Criminal Defence Paralegal seeking meaningful responsibility, quality work and long-term career progression within a highly regarded criminal defence practice.