At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present prosecution cases in the Magistrates’ Court while supporting victims and witnesses.
- Company: Join the Crown Prosecution Service, a key player in the legal system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, extensive training, and clear career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain courtroom experience and make a real difference in the community.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister with relevant legal qualifications.
- Other info: Dynamic role with daily court attendance and potential for hybrid working.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
This range is provided by Affinity Personnel. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more. Pay is location dependent. Successful candidates should expect to start on the minimum of the pay range unless transferring at level from another government department.
About the Role
The Crown Prosecutor role is an entry-level lawyer position within the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), ideal for newly qualified lawyers or those with limited or no criminal law experience. You will be based in the Magistrates’ Court, working closely with prosecution teams to review, prepare, and present cases across a broad range of criminal offences, from common assault to drugs-related matters. The role provides extensive courtroom exposure and a strong foundation for long-term career development within criminal law. Initially, you will handle more straightforward cases, progressing quickly to more complex casework. Upon completion of the Crown Prosecutor training programme, you will be able to advise police and investigators (excluding statutory pre-charge advice), conduct advocacy, and manage case preparation for summary and either-way matters heard in the Magistrates’ Court.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and present prosecution cases in the Magistrates’ Court
- Conduct advocacy across a full range of Magistrates’ Court proceedings
- Review evidence and decide whether prosecutions should proceed or be discontinued
- Advise police and investigators on summary-only and some either-way offences
- Clearly explain prosecution decisions to magistrates, counsel, victims, witnesses, and police
- Work collaboratively as part of a multi-skilled prosecution team
- Support victims and witnesses throughout the court process
- Maintain high professional and ethical standards in line with CPS values
Training & Development
- Structured induction and four-month training programme
- Opportunities to shadow experienced colleagues
- Ongoing legal learning and development
- Clear progression routes into: Senior Crown Prosecutor, Crown Advocate, Legal Manager
Qualifications (Mandatory)
- You must be legally qualified and meet one of the following:
- Solicitor or Barrister
- Qualified Solicitor or Barrister in England and Wales
- Able to obtain a valid Practicing Certificate by 16 March 2026
- Law Degree or CPE/GDL
- Completion of LPC, SQE or BPTC, plus relevant training contract or pupillage
- Fellow of CILEx
- CILEx Advocate/Litigator holding all three advocacy certificates
- Right of audience in Magistrates’ Courts or higher
- Must meet Crown Prosecutor eligibility under the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985
- Equivalent qualifications are not accepted.
Key Competencies
- Making Effective Decisions
- Communicating and Influencing
Technical & Professional Skills
- Strong legal intellect and analytical ability
- Sound judgement and decision‑making
- Motivation and commitment to public service
- Ability to manage caseloads effectively
This is a court-based role. Successful candidates must attend court daily to fulfil role requirements. Hybrid working arrangements may be discussed where operationally feasible. Applicants are encouraged to consider travel and commuting distances before applying.
Seniority level: Associate
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Legal
Industries: Legal Services
Lawyer in England employer: Affinity Personnel
Contact Detail:
Affinity Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow lawyers, attend legal events, and connect with people in the CPS. You never know who might have a lead on a job or can give you insider tips.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you nail those tricky questions. Focus on showcasing your passion for criminal law and your commitment to public service.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current legal issues and cases. Being knowledgeable about recent developments in criminal law will impress interviewers and show that you're serious about the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Lawyer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Crown Prosecutor role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, especially your legal qualifications and any advocacy experience.
Showcase Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for criminal law! In your application, mention why you’re interested in this area and how you align with the values of the Crown Prosecution Service. A genuine passion can really make you stand out.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your qualifications and motivations without having to sift through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Affinity Personnel
✨Know Your Law
Brush up on your knowledge of criminal law, especially the specifics related to the Crown Prosecutor role. Familiarise yourself with common offences and recent case law to demonstrate your understanding and passion for the field.
✨Practice Your Advocacy Skills
Since advocacy is a key part of the role, practice presenting cases out loud. You could even role-play with a friend or mentor to get comfortable articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently in a courtroom setting.
✨Understand the CPS Values
Research the Crown Prosecution Service's values and mission. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals, especially in supporting victims and maintaining ethical standards.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you. Consider asking about training opportunities or team dynamics.