Latest news: CPS reopens trainee scheme

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has relaunched its Legal Trainee Scheme (LTS) due to start in October 2012. 01/05/2012

There are 15 pupillages or training contracts on offer for those seeking to complete their legal training and qualify as fully practicing lawyers. Once qualified, they will take up positions as Crown Prosecutors, and will be responsible for reviewing and prosecuting criminal cases, as well as advising the police.

‘The Crown Prosecution Service can offer some of the most exciting career opportunities for young lawyers looking for their first role after graduating,’ said Keir Starmer QC, director of public prosecution.

The recruitment and selection process consists of the following stages:

• online application form including three application questions and CV;
• eligibility check;
• online Situational Judgement Test (SJT);
• online Verify Verbal Reasoning Test (VRT);
• online Verify Inductive Reasoning Test (IRT);
• legal case study;
• presentation exercise and interview.

‘This scheme will offer trainees an unrivalled chance to undertake challenging, varied and important work, with a view to building a career prosecuting cases for the CPS at the highest levels.

‘The scheme will also provide the CPS with access to the talent it needs to ensure the continued high quality of its legal work, and make sure we have the capacity and skills we need for the future,’ added Starmer.

The deadline for applications is 9 May 2012.