Head of Criminal Law / Criminal Defence Solicitor Location: Chester Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent Salary: Competitive DOE Benefits A growing and ambitious law firm is seeking an experienced Criminal Defence Solicitor to lead the launch, development, and long-term growth of its new Criminal Law Department. This is a unique opportunity for a solicitor who is looking to take ownership of a department, shape its future direction, and build a successful criminal practice within an established and supportive firm. The successful candidate will be responsible not only for managing a criminal defence caseload but also for driving the strategic development, growth, and expansion of the department. The Role You will play a pivotal role in establishing and leading the Criminal Law Department, developing processes, building referral networks, attracting new business, and creating a successful and profitable practice area. This role offers genuine autonomy and the opportunity to become a key figure within the firm's leadership structure. Key Responsibilities Leading the establishment and growth of the Criminal Law Department Managing a varied criminal defence caseload from instruction through to conclusion Representing clients at police stations, Magistrates' Courts, and supporting Crown Court matters Developing departmental procedures, systems, and workflows Driving business development and networking initiatives to generate new work Building relationships with clients, professional contacts, and referral sources Assisting with recruitment and team growth as the department expands Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid Agency and regulatory requirements Working closely with senior management on the department's strategic direction and performance Delivering exceptional client care and maintaining high professional standards Candidate Requirements Essential Qualified Solicitor with significant criminal defence experience Strong technical knowledge of criminal law and criminal procedure Experience managing your own caseload independently Commercial awareness and a business development mindset Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills Ambition to build and grow a successful department Desirable Duty Solicitor Accreditation Police Station Accreditation Experience supervising or mentoring junior team members Existing professional contacts and referral relationships Experience contributing to departmental growth or business development initiatives What's on Offer Competitive salary dependent on experience Opportunity to lead and develop a new department Significant autonomy and responsibility Genuine progression into a senior leadership position Supportive and entrepreneurial working environment Opportunity to recruit and build your own team over time Long-term career development within a growing firm This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious Criminal Defence Solicitor who wants to take ownership of a department, influence strategic growth, and build a successful criminal law offering within an expanding firm. If you are interested or need any more information, Please contact Ryan at Puro Associates on 01904571760 or apply below!