Solicitor - Criminal Law (NQ) Location: County Down Salary: £35,000 Sector: Criminal Defence We're proud to be partnering with a respected and long-established law firm in County Down to recruit a Newly Qualified Criminal Solicitor. This is an exciting and career-defining opportunity to join a firm known for its tenacity, professionalism, and excellence in criminal defence. If you're passionate about justice and driven to make a real difference in people's lives, this role offers the perfect platform to launch your legal career. What You'll Be Doing: Own Your Caseload: Manage a dynamic and varied range of criminal cases-from police station representation to Magistrates' and Crown Court matters-gaining hands-on experience from day one. Advocate for Your Clients: Stand up for individuals facing criminal allegations, offering clear, strategic legal advice and ensuring their rights are fully protected throughout every stage of proceedings. Showcase Your Advocacy: Attend court, present persuasive legal arguments, and collaborate with barristers, forensic experts, and key stakeholders to build robust defence strategies. Master the Detail: Draft and review critical legal documents, including defence statements and case summaries, ensuring your submissions are meticulous, accurate, and compelling. Build Your Network: Engage with prosecutors, law enforcement, and expert witnesses to develop strong working relationships and support successful outcomes for your clients. Stay Ahead of the Curve: Keep up to date with developments in criminal law, sentencing practices, and landmark cases to ensure you're always delivering the best possible defence. What You'll Bring: Recently qualified Solicitor in Northern Ireland Solid exposure to criminal law (during training or post-qualification) A deep understanding of court processes, legal procedures, and defence strategy Confidence in your advocacy, communication, and client handling skills Calm under pressure, with strong analytical and organisational abilities A genuine passion for criminal law and access to justice What's on Offer: Starting salary of £35,000 Clear pathways for career progression within a respected criminal law team A collaborative, experienced, and supportive environment Ongoing mentorship and opportunities for advocacy development This is an exceptional opportunity for a newly qualified solicitor who's ready to hit the ground running and build a career in criminal defence. You'll be part of a firm that values its people, supports your growth, and stands at the forefront of criminal law practice in Northern Ireland. For further information on this job, or any other Legal job in Belfast or Northern Ireland, apply via the link or contact Ciaran Gallagher for a confidential chat today. VANRATH acts as an agency and employment business for permanent recruitment and the supply of temporary workers. Skills: Solicitor Newly Qualified Criminal Lawyer