CPS Legal Trainee Scheme: Solicitor Pathway 2026
Career opportunities brought to you by Government Jobz
Quick Job Summary
| Salary: £30,700 – £32,110 per year (pro rata) | Location: Preston, Lancashire (On-site) |
| Closing Date: 05 February 2026 | Job Type: Full-time Contract |
About the Legal Trainee Scheme
The CPS is the largest employer of criminal law specialists in England and Wales. Through this scheme featured on Government Jobz, you will gain invaluable practical experience:
- Reviewing cases and providing essential pre-charge advice.
- Working directly with victims and witnesses to deliver justice.
- Undergoing rotations in specialist areas such as fraud, organized crime, and serious sexual offences.
- Completing a secondment outside of criminal law for a diverse professional background.
- Accessing a clear promotion path to Senior Crown Prosecutor roles in the Crown Court.
Candidate Eligibility
To qualify for this intake via Government Jobz, applicants must have:
- A qualifying Law Degree, GDL, or Common Professional Examination.
- Completion of the LPC or SQE prior to September 2027.
- Strong legal intellect and the ability to present complex cases clearly.
- A commitment to the independent and effective prosecution of crime.
Employee Benefits
The CPS prioritizes employee wellbeing and professional growth. Benefits found through Government Jobz include:
- Competitive Civil Service Pension (28.9% employer contribution)
- Flexible and family-friendly working hours
- 25–30 days annual leave + bank holidays
- £350 annual individual learning budget
- Paid volunteering leave (3 days)
- Extra privilege day for the King’s birthday
- Cycle2work scheme and retail discounts