Whether you've stepped away from practice to raise a family, recover from illness, explore a different profession, or take a much-needed career break, returning to criminal law can feel both exciting and daunting. At the CLSA, we understand the unique pressures...
Blog
Unsung Heroes of Justice: The Duty Solicitor’s Burden and Bravery
In the quiet corners of police stations, the bustle of courtrooms, and late-night calls from cells, criminal lawyers across the UK carry out one of the most morally and professionally complex roles in the legal world. Yet they are often underappreciated,...
What Can We Learn From Netflix’s Adolescence?
Stephen Graham’s popular 4-part drama has been widely talked about – for the impactful storyline, the innovative way of shooting each part in one take and the incredible acting skills of the cast. It has also highlighted some horrifying issues, that parents of...
How to Secure a Training Contract in Criminal Law
Securing a training contract in criminal law can be a challenging but rewarding journey. With increasing competition and the demanding nature of the field, it’s crucial to have a strong application, relevant experience, and a clear understanding of what firms are...
Managing a Heavy Caseload: Practical Tips for Solicitors
Criminal law solicitors are under immense pressure. The combination of high caseloads, tight deadlines, emotionally demanding work, and long hours makes this a uniquely challenging profession. The demands on your time can be relentless, and without effective...
Is Criminal Law Right for You? 5 Signs You’d Thrive in This Field
Criminal Law is one of the most challenging yet rewarding areas of legal practice. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable and deeply rooted in the pursuit of justice. But is it the right career for you? While some law students and aspiring lawyers are drawn to Corporate Law,...
Guest Blog: Domestic Abuse and Res Gestae – Where are we Now?
Res gestae evidence has been admissible for many years. It was a common law exception to the rule against hearsay which was preserved by the Criminal Justice Act 2003. The use of res gestae evidence in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse has increased in...
Raising Your Profile: Networking Tips for Criminal Law Solicitors
In the competitive world of criminal law, building a robust network and raising your professional profile are essential for success. Networking events and platforms like LinkedIn offer criminal law solicitors opportunities to connect with peers, potential clients, and...
2025 Criminal Law: How Lawyers and Law Firms Will Adapt
The landscape of criminal law in the UK is expected to undergo notable changes by 2025. In the UK, 6.66 million crimes were recorded by police in 2023/24. The crime rate in England and Wales has generally been decreasing over the last decade (although it certainly...
Christmas on Call: Tips for Resilience During the Festive Period
As the festive season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the joy and togetherness that Christmas brings. However, for those working as duty solicitors, this time of year can be particularly demanding. The Christmas period often results in increased workloads,...