Legal Trainee Scheme
Overview
The Legal Trainee Scheme includes both pupillages and training contracts and we will usually run one campaign for both together. The application process can vary but we currently advertise one year in advance of the start date of October the following year, so applicants need to have completed the LPC or BVC or be in the final year of study.
The number of training contracts and pupillages available in any one year will vary according to the business needs of CPS Areas. All pupillages are for 12 months and training contracts for 24 months and offer training in criminal litigation. Trainee solicitors will serve between six and eight months in private practice to gain experience in two other seats of law, in order to meet the Law Society's requirements. Pupils can serve the full 12 months with the CPS but will spend one month in Chambers to gain experience of the independent Bar.
The application procedure will be set out in the advertisement and will usually comprise:
- An on-line application form
- On-line verbal reasoning tests
- Written case study
- Oral presentation and interview
All legal trainees receive full induction training and are supervised by an experienced lawyer.
The CPS has won the Law Careers.Net award for Best Recruiter and Trainer Four years running and, as stage four of the Law Scholarship Scheme, was highly commended in the National Training Awards 2006.
Enquiries to legal.trainees@cps.gsi.gov.uk.
Visit our virtual Prosecution College
Further information and frequently asked questions.
Read current Legal Trainee profiles
