Commons (London) – Lawyer and paralegal

We set up Commons so we could deliver criminal defence legal services to clients in a new and more sustainable way.

Our reputation for creating change in the criminal justice system comes as a result of our commitment to social justice. We are recognised in Chambers & Partners, The Legal 500, The Times’ Best Law Firms 2023, and the Big Issue’s Changemakers 2022

If you want to join a progressive legal practice, you will have: 

  • the ability to provide first rate legal advice and representation, whether on Legal Aid or privately-funded cases;
  • a demonstrable interest in civil liberties, human rights and societal change;
  • the ambition, energy and enthusiasm to play a full part in the development of the organisation; 
  • strong academic credentials 

We’re now expanding our team and need to recruit a criminal defence lawyer and paralegal who can both demonstrate their commitment to social justice.

The start date for both positions is spring 2023 

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter, explaining clearly why you want to work at Commons, by 9.00am on Monday, 30 January 2023, to rhona@commons.legal

Please specify the role you are applying for in the subject line.

Lawyer

The role is for either a solicitor or barrister with experience in conducting criminal litigation. It will include advising and representing clients pre-charge and during criminal litigation and developing the design and delivery of our criminal justice project work. 

Police station accreditation and/or membership of the Law Society CLAS duty solicitor scheme are an advantage.

We will consider applicants who are interested in working on a part-time basis. 

Salary (FTE):  £35-40,000pa* base salary (*range depending on experience) + overtime and bonus payments (in line with firm profitability), health care plan, flexible working and pension. 


Paralegal

This role will involve supporting fee earners in advising and representing clients pre-charge and during criminal litigation. It is office-based and candidates who can qualify as a solicitor following two years’ full-time qualifying work experience will be preferred. 

Police station accreditation is an advantage.

We will consider applicants who are interested in working on a part-time basis. 

Salary (FTE): £26,400pa base salary + overtime and bonus payments (in line with firm profitability), health care plan and pension.