The CPS employs three main categories of staff: lawyers, caseworkers and administrative staff

Lawyers

Our lawyers are responsible for reviewing and, where appropriate, prosecuting criminal cases following investigation by police. They also advise police on matters relating to criminal cases. In each case reviewed, the prosecutor will consider whether there is sufficient evidence and, if so, whether the public interest requires a prosecution. In charging centres set up in police stations our lawyers, known as duty prosecutors, decide the charge that should be levelled against a suspect.

Senior crown prosecutors

Our senior crown prosecutors provide advice to the police on possible charges, both pre and post-arrest, over the telephone and face-to-face and at the police station. Among other duties they review files from the police, applying the test set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors, attend conferences and meetings with police and counsel, and discuss special measures with police for victims and witnesses.

They present cases in the magistrates'/Crown Courts, liaise with witnesses and, when appropriate, with the defence.

They are responsible for the continuing review of cases, communicating with victims if charges are discontinued or downgraded and for reviewing and serving advance disclosure packages to the defence/defendants. Our senior crown prosecutors are also responsible for casework preparation.

Crown advocates

Under a change in legal rules, a number of our lawyers, known as crown advocates, are qualified to appear in Crown Courts and other higher courts.

Caseworkers

Caseworkers help prosecutors in case management through processing and initial preparation of casework. Duties include casework preparation, personal casework management, attendance at court, post-court administration, assessment of professional fees and liaison with witnesses and other organisations within the criminal justice system.

Designated caseworkers

These are specially trained lay staff, who review and present a limited range of cases at magistrates' court involving straightforward anticipated guilty pleas, summary matters and driving offences. They also handle early administrative hearings and contested bail applications.

Administrative staff

Other CPS staff work in administrative functions, such as finance, IT, training, personnel and management support. Administrative staff are recruited from all backgrounds, with a variety of experience and ability.

Equal opportunities

In line with the CPS Equal Opportunities Policy Statement we select the best people for the job regardless of sex, colour, race, religion, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, marital status, working pattern, sexual orientation and gender. We operate a complaints procedure for those who feel they have been unfairly treated as a result of discrimination, harassment, intimidation or bullying.

For details of vacancies, go to the national CPS website

For other personnel enquiries, e-mail personnel@cps.gsi.gov.uk