MH Defence is seeking an experienced Criminal Defence Solicitor to join its growing, advocacy-led Sydney practice.

This hands-on role offers the opportunity to manage matters from initial instruction through to resolution, appear independently across the Local and District Courts, and work closely with a former Supreme Court Tipstaff. You will gain exposure to responsible and complex criminal matters while enjoying genuine autonomy, competitive remuneration and commission, with no requirement to bring an existing client base.

The position suits a capable criminal lawyer who enjoys courtroom advocacy, can operate with minimal supervision and approaches clients with professionalism, empathy and sound judgement.

Key Responsibilitie s

- Independently manage a varied caseload of criminal law matters from initial instruction through to finalisation.
- Appear in the Local Court for hearings, sentences, bail applications and section 14 applications.
- Conduct interlocutory applications, including section 45 applications, subpoena arguments and non-publication or suppression order applications.
- Appear in the District Court for bail applications and appeals.
- Prepare matters thoroughly for hearing, including reviewing evidence, conferencing clients and instructing counsel when required.
- Prepare and lodge applications through Legal Aid Grants Online.
- Provide clear, practical and timely advice to clients, including clients in custody.
- Maintain accurate matter records and comply with all relevant professional and legal obligations.
- Support and mentor junior solicitors where required.
- Contribute to the development of the practice’s systems, processes and workflows as the firm grows.




- Current admission as an Australian solicitor and a valid NSW practising certificate.
- A minimum of two years' post-qualification experience in criminal law, with three or more years preferred.
- Demonstrated experience appearing independently in the Local Court.
- Experience conducting hearings, sentences, bail applications and section 14 applications.
- Experience with interlocutory applications, District Court bail applications and appeals.
- Working knowledge of Legal Aid Grants Online and the Legal Aid application process.
- Strong written and oral advocacy, legal research and analytical skills.
- The confidence and judgement to manage matters with minimal supervision.
- An empathetic, client-focused approach and the resilience to work effectively in a demanding criminal defence environment.
- Willingness and ability to travel regularly to metropolitan and regional NSW courts, including Newcastle, Penrith and Bathurst.

About You:

- Experience conducting Supreme Court bail applications.
- Experience using Smokeball or a comparable legal practice-management system.
- An established Local Court practice or experience managing a similar criminal law caseload.

Remuneration

A base salary of $100,000 to $140,000 per annum will be offered, depending on experience and demonstrated capability.

The package also includes commission of 25% to 30% of billings for matters personally introduced by the solicitor . There is no requirement to bring an existing client base.

Location and Working Conditions

This is a full-time position based at 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney CBD .

Regular travel to metropolitan and regional NSW courts is an ongoing requirement of the role. Some flexibility will also be required to accommodate court listings, client needs and the demands of active criminal matters.

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📌 Criminal Defence Solicitor (Sydney)
🏢 Golden Hire Recruitment
📍 Sydney