Criminal solicitors and lawyers
42AI USED FOR42%moving to80%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £40,000
REGULATORY MOATThe law requires human oversight. That human could be you.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM LAW →
Criminal solicitors and lawyers
Criminal lawyers defend people accused of crimes and make sure they get a fair trial. They work in courts, talk to clients, research law, and argue cases. It is important work that protects people's rights and keeps the justice system fair.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
AI already does a real share, the core still needs you
AI is used for a real share, around 42% of the day-to-day tasks today, and the law requires human oversight. That human could be you. That part is what keeps the job yours, so get fluent with the tools and lean into it.
Career progression path
Is this the only route?
This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.
0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£67,350Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPJunior Criminal Defence SolicitorAs a Junior Criminal Defence Solicitor, you will assist senior solicitors in preparing cases, conducting research, and meeting clients. This role is essential for gaining practical experience in the legal field.£30,000 - £40,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Criminal Defence SolicitorIn this role, you will manage your own caseload, represent clients in court, and develop defence strategies. Your experience will allow you to take on more complex cases and mentor junior solicitors.£50,000 - £65,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Criminal Defence Solicitor/PartnerAt this level, you will lead a team of solicitors, manage high-profile cases, and contribute to the strategic direction of the firm. Your expertise will be recognised in the legal community.£80,000+
Apprenticeship listings for this career → (June 2026 snapshot; check closing dates on the official service)
The degree route
Courses in this career's subject area, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Law with Criminal Justice & Human RightsGoldsmiths' College · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Law with Study Abroad in EnglishThe University of Warwick · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Business LawUniversity Campus of Football Business Limited · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£27,000 median
🎓Law (Senior Status) - Graduate entryUniversity of York · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£26,500 median
Degree subjects that lead this way
Courses in this career's subject area, from the same register that priced the degree above. Subject-matched, not a guaranteed qualifying route: check each course's own entry requirements and any professional accreditation before you rely on it.
Global LawQueen Mary University of London · DegreeLaw with Criminal Justice & Human RightsGoldsmiths' College · DegreeLaw with Study Abroad in EnglishThe University of Warwick · DegreeBusiness LawUniversity Campus of Football Business Limited · DegreeCriminology and LawUniversity of Stirling · DegreeLaw (Senior Status) - Graduate entryUniversity of York · Degree