CPS trainee scheme & pupillage opens

On offer is the chance to work at the sharp end of crime and justice, with a guaranteed job at the end.

Trainee solicitors complete a two-year programme of courses and practical experience in all areas of CPS legal work from reviewing cases and preparing pre-charge advice to attending meetings with victims and witnesses.

Pupil barristers spend their first six months non-practising—completing advocacy training, legal courses and an optional secondment in chambers. In the second six months, they are on their feet in court, presenting cases and working with criminal justice partners.

For both solicitor and barrister training, a supervisor is on hand to provide guidance and support throughout. Trainee solicitors complete at least one secondment in an area outside of criminal law. Both solicitor and barrister trainees can choose to work in a specialist crime area, such as organised crime and fraud. All trainees who successfully complete the programme will be offered a permanent crown prosecutor or crown advocate role.

Applicants must have a law degree, Graduate Diploma in Law or Common Professional Examination, and have completed their Legal Practice Course, Solicitors Qualifying Exam or Bar Course before September 2027.

While the chance to help secure justice for victims of crime and work in a fascinating and fast-moving area of law is enticing enough, the job also comes with great perks. The CPS offers flexible and family-friendly working, a competitive salary, Civil Service pension, 25 days rising to 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, a privilege day for the King’s birthday and three days paid volunteering leave.

Find out more on the NLJ Career Hub—click here for the solicitor pathway and here for the barrister scheme.