Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our legal trainee scheme to gain hands-on experience in criminal law and advocacy.
- Company: Crown Prosecution Service, the largest provider of criminal law pupillages in England and Wales.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, generous leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Kick-start your legal career and become a fully qualified barrister with guaranteed employment.
- Qualifications: Must have a law degree and completed Bar Course by September 2027.
- Other info: Supportive environment with opportunities for professional growth and specialisation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Applications are now open for the Crown Prosecution Service legal trainee scheme. This is an exciting opportunity to kick‑start your legal career and become a fully qualified barrister.
About the Crown Prosecution Service
At the Crown Prosecution Service, we’re responsible for delivering justice through the independent and effective prosecution of crime. We’re the largest provider of criminal law pupillages in England and Wales, offering you comprehensive training and a permanent role at the employed Bar after successfully completing our legal trainee scheme. We’re proud to be recognised by our legal trainees in the Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey 2025 for our client secondments, confidence of being kept on, work/life balance, inclusiveness, international secondments and approachability.
About the legal trainee scheme
Our legal trainee scheme is an extensive training programme to help you become a fully qualified barrister. You gain valuable experience in all areas of our legal work, from reviewing cases and preparing pre‑charge advice to attending meetings with victims and witnesses. You’re guaranteed a permanent position as a crown prosecutor or crown advocate after successfully completing your pupillage. You are supported by a supervisor who offers guidance and opportunities to develop your understanding of working as a prosecutor. Your first six months are non‑practising – completing advocacy training, legal courses and an optional secondment in chambers. During your remaining six months, you put your training into practice – building your advocacy skills, presenting cases in court and working with criminal justice partners. You can develop your knowledge by working in specialist crime areas including rape and serious sexual offences, organised crime and fraud. We’re committed to your professional growth and expect, following your initial role in the magistrates’ court, that you have the necessary skills to apply for promotion opportunities based in the Crown Court including senior crown prosecutor and senior crown advocate roles.
About you
We’re looking for aspiring barristers with an interest in criminal law. You must have a law degree, Graduate Diploma in Law or Common Professional Examination, and have completed your Bar Course before September 2027. Sound legal intellect and the ability to present cases clearly, both verbally and in writing is essential.
About our benefits
- Flexible and family‑friendly working
- Competitive salary
- Civil Service pension, with an average employer contribution of 28.9%
- 25 days leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years’ service, plus bank holidays
- 3 days paid volunteering leave
- An extra privilege day for the King’s birthday
- £350 a year individual learning budget
- Wellbeing support and counselling
- Cycle2work scheme, high street retailer offers and discounts
If you’re ready to take the next step in your legal career, find out more and apply today.
Legal Trainee Scheme - Barrister in Canterbury employer: CROWN PROSECUTION SERVICE
Contact Detail:
CROWN PROSECUTION SERVICE Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Trainee Scheme - Barrister in Canterbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend legal events, seminars, and workshops to meet people in the field. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections; you never know who might help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can really boost your confidence. We suggest focusing on common legal scenarios and questions related to criminal law to show off your knowledge.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for criminal law! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your experiences and what drives you. We want to see that fire in your belly for justice and advocacy.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re all about making the process smooth and straightforward, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Trainee Scheme - Barrister in Canterbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the legal trainee scheme. Highlight your interest in criminal law and any relevant coursework or experiences that showcase your legal intellect.
Showcase Your Writing Skills: Since clear written communication is key for this role, ensure your application is well-structured and free of errors. Use concise language and make your points clearly to demonstrate your ability to present cases effectively.
Research the Crown Prosecution Service: Familiarise yourself with the CPS's values and mission. Mentioning specific aspects of their work or recent cases can show your genuine interest and commitment to becoming a part of their team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and helps us keep track of all applicants efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at CROWN PROSECUTION SERVICE
✨Know Your Criminal Law
Brush up on key concepts and recent developments in criminal law. Being able to discuss relevant cases or legislation during your interview will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Practice Your Advocacy Skills
Since this role is all about presenting cases, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your delivery and receive constructive feedback.
✨Understand the Crown Prosecution Service
Familiarise yourself with the CPS's mission, values, and recent high-profile cases. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the organisation and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the trainee scheme, mentorship opportunities, and career progression. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.
