Meet our paralegal officers

My inspiration

Before joining the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), I already knew I wanted to work in the criminal justice system. I had studied aspects of criminology at university and had a profound interest in criminal justice. I knew joining the CPS would be an engaging and motivating career.  It’s important to me that the system delivers justice for victims, and provides the support they need throughout such difficult and complex times in their lives. The CPS plays a key role in that and I wanted to be part of that work.  

My typical day

As a paralegal officer I work on supporting and preparing Crown Court casework from the start of the case to the end of the trial. I attend court to help run serious crimes, manage and serve evidence, and draft legal applications. I thoroughly enjoy my job - it’s highly rewarding and incredibly interesting.

My background

After graduating from university with a degree in social policy and crime, I joined the CPS as an administrative apprentice, learning case management while studying for a qualification in business administration. I then worked as a paralegal assistant for two years, helping run trials and providing support to victims and witnesses in court – it was a fast-paced, fascinating role. Alongside that I completed a Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX) level 3 paralegal apprenticeship, which developed my understanding of the law and the criminal justice system. 

My biggest learning

I am very grateful to work while gaining qualifications. This is something the CPS is really committed to, and it’s hugely benefited my career progression. I've learnt so much from each role and been able to build on each experience to keep learning, improving and progressing.  

My inspiration

The CPS is a supportive, inclusive and ever-developing organisation. It enables and encourages us to achieve goals and progress through our careers and it actively promotes a culture of recognition and opportunity. The CPS offers a flexible working environment, supported by a hybrid working policy, that’s been developed with staff views. Coming to work with the CPS doesn’t feel like a job, it feels like a privilege to be able to spend my day dedicated to delivering justice.

My typical day

As a paralegal officer, I have an allocated caseload and I'm responsible for preparing files, drafting applications and monitoring cases, working in partnership with prosecutors. A typical day involves helping run and maintain cases, ensuring deadlines are met, liaising with internal and external partners such as the police, defence firms and prosecuting counsel. I can also be deployed to court where I help counsel in the courtroom and am the representative for the CPS. I meet with victims and witnesses, and provide support. This role gives me an outlet for my passion to deliver high-quality service and care to vulnerable people in the hardest of times.

My background

Before the CPS I was a dog groomer. I have always been passionate about helping people through difficult times and wanted to support those going through the justice system. But I thought it was out of my reach.

When I saw the opportunity to apply to be an administration apprentice with the CPS, I was nervous but excited by the possibilities. Through CPS support and encouragement, I've received two promotions in under two years and am now a paralegal officer, studying towards a law and research qualification with CILEX.

My advice to anyone considering a career with the CPS

Don’t hesitate. I've really been welcomed into the CPS and supported to develop and thrive in the role from the start.