Applications are now open for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) legal trainee scheme. This is an exciting
opportunity to kick-start your legal career and become a fully qualified barrister.
About the CPS
The CPS is responsible for delivering justice through the independent and effective prosecution of crime. As
the principal prosecuting authority across England and Wales, the nature and diversity of cases we advise on
and prosecute means our work is often emotionally challenging and complex. As such we employ over 7,000
individuals who think objectively, act professionally, show the upmost respect for others and continually strive
for excellence.
About the role
The legal trainee scheme is an extensive training programme designed to help you become a fully qualified
barrister, upon successful completion of a one-year pupillage.
You are supported by a supervisor throughout your training period, who offers guidance and provides you with opportunities to develop your knowledge in a real-life setting. Your work allows you to gain valuable experience in all areas of criminal law, from reviewing cases and preparing pre-charge advice to attending meetings with victims and witnesses. You represent the CPS in court, presenting cases and liaising with caseworkers and other criminal justice system agencies. Your development is supported throughout your pupillage with access to professional courses and opportunities to shadow prosecution teams to observe advocacy the magistrates’ and Crown Court.
You are guaranteed a position as a crown prosecutor within the CPS upon successful completion of the legal
trainee scheme. We are committed to your professional growth and expect that following your initial role in
the magistrates’ court, you will gain the necessary skills and competence to apply for progression opportunities
including senior crown prosecutor posts and beyond.
About our benefits
At the CPS we pride ourselves on providing a variety of benefits that ensure our employees’ requirements are
central. We want to ensure you can thrive at work and home, offering a range of support to achieve a balance. This includes flexible working hours, flexibility to support caring responsibilities and a family friendly approach to work. We also offer a range of benefits including:
• flexible and hybrid working
• competitive salary
• Civil Service pension, with an average employer contribution of 27%
• 25 days leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service, plus bank holidays
• 3 days paid volunteering leave
• 1 extra privilege day for the King’s birthday
• £350 a year individual learning budget
• wellbeing support and counselling
• childcare vouchers, Cycle2work scheme, high street retailer offers and discounts.
If you’re committed to public service and are ready to take the next step in your legal career, find out more and
