About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Legal Supervisor to lead our Criminal Legal Aid Contract, with a particular focus on representing children and young people who have been arrested or are involved in criminal proceedings. The successful candidate will be a Police Station Accredited Duty Solicitor, passionate about youth justice, and committed to ensuring that vulnerable clients receive exceptional representation and care throughout the criminal process. As a supervisor, you will provide expert guidance to junior staff, ensure compliance with Legal Aid Agency (LAA) and contractual standards, and uphold the firm's reputation for high-quality, client-focused defence work.
Key Responsibilities
Supervision and Compliance
* Act as the LAA-nominated Supervisor for the Criminal Legal Aid Contract.
* Ensure compliance with LAA and SQM quality standards.
* Carry out regular file reviews and supervision meetings with staff.
* Maintain accurate supervision records and oversee case management performance.
* Prepare for and manage LAA audits, peer reviews, and contract renewals.
Youth Justice and Casework
* Provide legal advice and representation to children and young people at the police station, Youth Court, and other criminal courts as appropriate.
* Undertake duty solicitor work, including 24-hour police station call-outs.
* Ensure all casework reflects the unique needs of young clients — prioritising communication, safeguarding, and liaison with parents, appropriate adults, and youth offending teams.
* Apply trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate approaches in all client interactions.
* Handle a caseload of both legally aided and privately funded matters with care and efficiency.
Leadership and Training
* Supervise and mentor solicitors, trainees, and caseworkers, particularly in youth justice practice.
* Deliver internal training on youth-specific procedures, PACE safeguards, and LAA compliance.
* Promote best practice in dealing with vulnerable and young clients.
Contract and Performance Management
* Oversee case allocation, billing, and contract performance indicators.
* Report regularly to management on supervision outcomes, compliance, and service quality.
* Contribute to strategic planning, service development, and external partnerships (e.g., Youth Offending Services, local schools, community agencies).
Essential Requirements
* Qualified Solicitor with current Duty Solicitor (Police Station) accreditation.
* Meets the LAA Supervisor Standard for the Criminal Legal Aid Contract.
* Minimum 3 years' PQE in criminal defence work.
* Demonstrated expertise in representing children and young people in criminal matters.
* Strong knowledge of PACE 1984 and Codes of Practice (especially regarding juveniles).
* Sound understanding of Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, Criminal Procedure Rules, and Legal Aid Regulations.
* Proven supervisory and leadership skills.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with a child-centred approach.
Desirable Attributes
* Accredited Children's Representative (or willing to obtain accreditation).
* Experience liaising with Youth Offending Teams, Social Services, and educational institutions.
* Experience preparing and managing LAA audits or peer review assessments.
* Understanding of safeguarding obligations and trauma-informed practice.
* Familiarity with SQM and electronic case management systems.
Benefits
* Competitive salary and on-call duty rota enhancements.
* Flexible working arrangements.
* Funded training and continuing professional development opportunities.
* Supportive, collaborative, and socially committed working environment.
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o Opportunity to shape and grow the firm's Youth Justice Practice.