Howells - Criminal Defence Paralegal - Applications Close: 24/4/26

We are searching for a committed and experienced Criminal Defence Paralegal to join our busy Criminal Department based at our offices in Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley.

Criminal Defence Paralegal Role

You will play a key role in supporting our Criminal Defence solicitors, managing your own caseload and assisting clients through every stage of the criminal justice process. This is a hands-on role, ideal for someone with practical criminal defence experience who thrives in a fast paced environment.

Criminal Defence Paralegal Responsibilities

As part of your role, you will be responsible for:

• Case Management: Handle a caseload covering the full range of criminal matters.
• Police Station Work – Representing clients at the police station and providing clear, practical advice at often critical stages. Alternatively, willingness to undertake police station accreditation.
• Legal Research – Undertaking detailed legal research to support case strategy, ensuring up to date knowledge of relevant case law, legislation and procedure.
• Drafting & Documentation – Preparing and drafting legal documents with accuracy, clarity and attention to detail.
• Client Care – Building strong client relationships, offering clear guidance tailored to individual circumstances, and keeping clients informed throughout their case. Additionally, seeing clients to take new instructions and statements to assist with mitigation.
• Communication & Liaison – Working closely with colleagues, external agencies and clients to progress matters efficiently.

About You

You will ideally have:

• Experience working within criminal defence law
• Experience representing clients at the police station
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Excellent communication and client care skills
• A professional, empathetic and resilient approach to your work

About Howells Solicitors

Howells Solicitors is a well-established and highly regarded law firm serving clients across South Yorkshire—and nationwide in select areas of law.

With offices in Sheffield, Rotherham, and Barnsley, we provide expert legal advice and representation to individuals and families, offering both private and legal aid services. Our focus is on delivering high-quality, personal legal support across a broad range of areas, including property law, family law, wills and probate, criminal defence, and civil litigation.

Our Criminal Law team is known for its professionalism, efficiency, and client-focused approach. We are proud of our strong reputation in the region, with excellent client feedback and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Equal Opportunities

Howells Solicitors is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. If you require any adjustments to support your application, please let us know.

If you have any questions regarding this vacancy please contact our HR team on 0114 249 67 63 or email: HR@howells.law

Please send all completed applications to HR@howells.law with the position applied for in the subject line.

Please note, individual feedback will not be given due to the number of applicants we received.