The Public Defender Service – Head of Solicitors

This is an exciting opportunity for a lawyer with a strong interest and track record in criminal legal work. The Head of Solicitors will ensure that the Public Defender Service (PDS) delivers quality legal representation for legally-aided clients at the Police Station, Magistrates and Crown Courts.  As member of the PDS Senior Management Team, the Head of Solicitors will build and maintain a strong network with partners across the Criminal Justice System, supporting reform and seeking opportunities that develop the PDS.

The role will entail the management of approx. 40 Solicitors, Police Station Representatives and support staff, divided across the four PDS Solicitors offices in Cheltenham, Darlington, Pontypridd and Swansea. The successful role holder will ideally be based in one of these locations, but applications from other locations in England and Wales will also be considered.

We are looking for a Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive specialised in criminal legal work with a strong experience of managing a large professional team using legal, financial and operational management skills. The successful applicant will also have excellent advocacy skills and experience in preparing a range of cases to trial in both the Magistrates and Crown Courts.

You can find more information about the PDS on its website (http://publicdefenderservice.org.uk/).  If you have any questions about this role or its recruitment, please contact the recruitment manager Jamie Barnett jamie.barnett@legalaid.gsi.gov.uk / 07795 602434.

To apply, follow the link below quoting reference LAA00737-4.
https://www21.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_moj01.asp

Closing Date 23rd August 2016