A diverse range of prosecutors have returned to criminal practice amid growing justice system pressures as part of an ambitious Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) scheme.

Following a successful first year, the CPS has launched the second recruitment round of its Go Prosecute scheme, designed to help experienced lawyers return to criminal practice.

The scheme offers solicitors and barristers a structured route back into criminal law, with successful applicants joining the CPS as Senior Crown Prosecutors on a one-year secondment. Participants receive tailored training, mentoring and practical casework experience, with the opportunity to apply for a permanent role.

The initiative was launched in 2025 to help experienced lawyers overcome the practical barriers to returning after time away from criminal practice.

The first cohort brought 23 lawyers into post and attracted applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds. Of those recruited, 32 per cent were from an ethnic minority background, 58 per cent were women and 23 per cent reported having a disability. More than a quarter joined on a part-time basis.

Stephen Parkinson, Director of Public Prosecutions, said: “I am delighted with the progress we have made so far through the Go Prosecute scheme, a unique opportunity for criminal lawyers to rebuild their skills and confidence as prosecutors after time away from practice.

“At a time of significant demand on the criminal justice system, Go Prosecute directly addresses vital skills shortages, whilst providing a route back into the profession for those who may have taken time out due to caring responsibilities or other personal circumstances.

“Our first cohort of applicants have already made a significant impact and I would strongly encourage anyone considering applying for this year’s recruitment round to follow in their footsteps.”

The second round of the scheme, currently open for applications, will build on its early success by reaching more legal talent looking to return to practice.

The programme forms part of the CPS’s wider work to recruit and retain skilled prosecutors, building critical capacity and helping move cases through the courts at a time when the criminal justice system faces high demand.

Helen Morris, a Senior Crown Prosecutor who joined the CPS in the first Go Prosecute cohort, said: “I had been out of the profession for 15 years and thought my lawyering days were over. When Go Prosecute was launched it seemed like a perfect opportunity to resurrect skills that I hadn’t used in so long.   

“It is refreshing to see an initiative that values experience and is willing to invest time and resources in people returning to the profession. It’s a recognition of the fact that skills that may have been dormant for a while are still there and, with the right support, can flourish.” 

Hogarth Andall, who also joined the CPS as a Senior Crown Prosecutor through Go Prosecute, now works as part of a Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit – where he and colleagues make complex and sensitive charging and case management decisions. 

Hogarth said: “I started my career as a criminal barrister and after spending over 20 years working in-house at a technology company, this felt like a great opportunity to return to criminal law.  

“Go Prosecute offered a unique opportunity to bring my experience back into public service and to end my litigation career where it began — working in criminal law and contributing to the justice system.”

Applications for the second round of Go Prosecute are open until 29 June 2026, with successful applicants due to start in post in September.