Current Vacancies:

Volunteer Criminal Law Solicitor

Role Overview

North East Law Centre is seeking a qualified criminal law solicitor to provide flexible, high-impact pro bono advice through our remote criminal law clinic. This is an opportunity to use your expertise to support people who may otherwise struggle to access timely, specialist legal help.

Role Title: Volunteer Criminal Law Solicitor

Organisation: North East Law Centre (NELC)

Location: Remote

Commitment: 4 hours per week, for a minimum of 6 months

About Us

At North East Law Centre, access to justice is the foundation of everything we do. We provide free, specialist legal advice and representation to people who are at risk, marginalised, or facing barriers to getting the help they need.

Since launching in 2022, our criminal law adviceline has become a vital source of practical support for people who might otherwise be left without advice, clarity, or a way forward. Over the past two years, our volunteer solicitor has contributed more than 300 pro bono hours and helped more than 400 clients benefit directly from specialist criminal law advice.

With our current volunteer solicitor retiring in October 2026, we are looking for a committed and compassionate solicitor to help continue this essential service and strengthen access to justice across the North East.

What You Will Do

As a Volunteer Criminal Law Solicitor, you will play a central role in delivering our weekly criminal law clinic. You will provide clear, practical legal support to clients and help them understand their rights, options, and next steps.

· Triage incoming enquiries and identify whether clients need advice, signposting, or referral to appropriate specialist services.

· Provide clear, high-quality initial and one-off legal advice on criminal law matters.

· Prepare concise written advice notes for clients where appropriate.

· Maintain accurate, confidential records in line with NELC’s case management procedures, professional standards, and data protection requirements.

Who We Are Looking For

We welcome applications from practising solicitors, non-practising solicitors, and retired legal professionals with criminal law experience. NELC can support eligible volunteers with the cost of a practising certificate where required.

· Essential: Qualified solicitor admitted to the roll in England and Wales, with a current or recently held practising certificate.

· Essential: Prior experience or specialist knowledge in criminal law.

· Essential: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an empathetic approach to vulnerable clients.

· Desirable: Ability to commit 4 hours per week for at least 6 months.

Support and Supervision

You will be supported by NELC’s team through induction, case management processes, and clear escalation routes. We will provide appropriate guidance to help you deliver safe, effective, and professional advice within the scope of the clinic.

Why Volunteer With Us?

· Make a meaningful difference for people facing hardship, uncertainty, and barriers to justice.

· Use your criminal law expertise in a focused, flexible, and high-impact pro bono role.

· Contribute to a trusted community legal service with a strong access-to-justice mission.

· Receive induction, support, and additional training to assist your volunteering.

· Claim reimbursement for reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses where applicable.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a brief expression of interest outlining your criminal law experience and motivation for volunteering to Michael Fawole, Centre Director, North East Law Centre.

Contact Email: michael@nelawcentre.co.uk

Closing Date: 30 September 2026

We look forward to hearing from solicitors who want to use their expertise to make a practical

difference in people’s lives.