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Criminal solicitors and lawyers

Criminal lawyers defend people accused of crimes and make sure they get a fair trial. They work in courts, talk to clients, research law, and argue cases. It is important work that protects people's rights and keeps the justice system fair.

Criminal solicitors and lawyers

42

Law

AI IMPACT
AI EXPOSURE TODAY42
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST80%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYC
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £40,000
REGULATORY MOATThe law requires human oversight. That human could be you.

THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.

AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.

AI exposure is high, the core still needs you
AI exposure today is high on our index (42), and the law requires human oversight. That human could be you. That part is what keeps the job yours, so get fluent with the tools and lean into it.

The role

As a criminal solicitor or lawyer, you represent people in court who have been accused of crimes. Your job is to listen to their story, understand what happened, and make the strongest possible case for them. You read through evidence, research the law, and prepare arguments you will make to a judge or jury.

Your days are varied. You might be in an office researching case law and writing court documents, or in a police station advising a client, or in a courtroom presenting their case. You need to think clearly under pressure, ask good questions to find out the truth, and be able to persuade people to listen to your arguments. Some of your clients will have done difficult things and some will be innocent. Either way, your job is to make sure they have a proper defence and that the system treats them fairly.

Daily responsibilities

  • Conduct detailed legal research on criminal law and case precedents.
  • Meet with clients to gather information, assess their situations, and provide legal advice.
  • Prepare legal documents, including briefs, motions, and appeals.
  • Represent clients in court, presenting evidence and arguments to defend their case.
  • Negotiate plea deals and settlements with prosecutors.
  • Stay updated on changes in criminal legislation and case law.
  • Collaborate with law enforcement and other legal professionals to build strong cases.
  • Manage case files and documentation meticulously to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Does a degree help here?

A UK degree in law provides candidates with a robust understanding of the British legal system, critical thinking skills, and a network of professional contacts. Universities in the UK are renowned for their rigorous legal education, which is highly regarded by employers in the legal sector.