Criminal Advocate - Crown Court

Salary: £40k - 55k per year

Location: Remote - Greater London

GT Stewart Solicitors & Advocates are looking for a Criminal Advocate to join our busy Crown Court team, with a particular focus on Crown court advocacy.

This is an excellent opportunity for an advocate looking to develop or further their career in criminal defence within a well-established firm with a strong commitment to access to justice.

We welcome applications from Barristers as well as qualified solicitors with Higher Rights of Audience and relevant criminal advocacy experience.

The Role

The successful candidate will represent clients across a range of criminal matters, with opportunities to undertake advocacy in both the Magistrates'' and Crown Courts.

The role will involve:

• Representing clients in criminal proceedings, including Crown Court matters
• Undertaking advocacy at hearings and trials
• Advising clients on their cases and providing clear, practical legal advice
• Reviewing evidence and preparing cases for hearings and trial
• Preparing legal submissions, applications and other relevant documentation
• Working very closely with solicitors and other members of the Crime team to ensure clients receive high-quality representation
• Managing a caseload effectively and ensuring that all relevant deadlines are met.
• Building strong relationships with clients and providing a high standard of client care
• Complying with professional, regulatory and Legal Aid Agency requirements
• Contributing to the continued development of the firm's criminal defence practice

The role will provide the opportunity to develop and undertake Crown Court advocacy, with the level of responsibility and complexity of work reflecting the successful candidate's experience and qualifications.

About You

We are looking for a confident and committed criminal advocate who has a genuine interest in criminal defence and a strong commitment to representing clients effectively.

You will:

• Be a qualified Barrister or Solicitor with the appropriate rights of audience to undertake the role
• Have experience of criminal advocacy, whether gained through pupillage, previous practice or as a qualified solicitor
• For solicitor applicants, hold Higher Rights of Audience or be eligible to undertake the relevant Crown Court advocacy
• Be confident appearing in court and representing clients
• Have strong written and verbal communication skills
• Be able to analyse evidence and identify the key issues in a case
• Be organised and able to manage competing priorities and deadlines
• Be able to work independently while also contributing positively to a wider team
• Demonstrate sound professional judgement and a commitment to high standards of client care
• Share GT Stewarts commitment to access to justice

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates who are keen to develop their Crown Court advocacy and build a long-term career within criminal defence.

About GT Stewart

GT Stewart Solicitors & Advocates is a specialist, multi-disciplinary law firm with a strong commitment to access to justice.

We undertake a significant amount of publicly funded work and represent clients across a wide range of legal areas. Our Crime team represents clients across the criminal courts and is committed to providing high-quality legal advice and advocacy to those who need it.

We offer a supportive environment in which advocates can develop their skills and take on increasing responsibility as their experience develops.

The role is offered on a remote basis, with candidates expected to be based within the London and South East area and able to attend court and other relevant meetings as required.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to develop and undertake Crown Court advocacy
• A varied and challenging criminal caseload
• Remote working, with attendance at court as required
• The opportunity to work alongside experienced criminal solicitors and advocates
• Support and opportunities for professional development
• The opportunity to build a long-term career within a specialist criminal defence team.

Closing date for applications is 23rd October 2026.

Interviews take place week commencing 2nd November 2026.

The role is expected to start early January 2027.

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