CPS Advocate Panels application scheme
For further information and to download an application pack, please go to the Application page. There is also a Frequently Asked Questions page for people interested in the scheme.
Update to the Advocate Panel Scheme – 16/05/13
Updated General Crime Advocate Panel list published.
Update to the Advocate Panel Scheme – 15/05/13
The CPS announces an amendment to the Advocate Panel scheme to allow applications for temporary membership until the next application window.
Further information can be found on the Application page, in particular:
- Document 21: Temporary Membership application process
- Document 22: Application form for Temporary Membership
Applications for temporary membership must be submitted to Advocate.Panels@CPS.gsi.gov.uk.
Click here to see the previous updates of the CPS Advocate Panel scheme.
Update to the Advocate Panel Scheme – 16/04/13
1) Advocate Panel - specialist lists published .
2) Advocate Panel - general crime list updated to include the November 2012 application results published.
The CPS has today published the results of the Advocate Panel specialist list exercise. The list can be found here. The list will be further updated when the specialist list appeal process is concluded.
The latest update to the General Crime and Rape Panel list can be found here. This includes the results of the November 2012 application window.
For further information and to download an application pack, please go to the Application page. There is also a Frequently Asked Questions page for people interested in the scheme.
Application packs must be submitted to Advocate.Panels@CPS.gsi.gov.uk.
An equality impact assessment has been undertaken for the Advocate Panels.
Click here to see the previous updates of the CPS Advocate Panel scheme.
Keir Starmer QC, Director of Public Prosecutions, introduces the scheme
"I am pleased to introduce the CPS Advocate Panel scheme for 2011. This is the first in what will be a regular exercise in establishing panels of advocates who have the necessary ability to undertake the highest quality prosecution advocacy for the benefit of the CPS and the wider criminal justice system.
"Through an open competition, this exercise will establish Circuit-based and specialist panels of advocates for the CPS to call upon over the next three years. The panels will complement the in-house advocacy resource already available to the CPS.
"An appointment to the panel at level 1 will provide new advocates with an important opportunity to gain experience of criminal prosecution work, whereas appointment to level 2, 3 or 4 will signify excellence in advocacy, appropriate to that level. The Advocate Panels will provide confidence to the CPS, members of the public and other participants in the criminal justice system that the advocates being used have been through an open but rigorous application and approval process with a clear focus on quality.
"For successful applicants, whether barristers or solicitors, the panels will provide a greater opportunity to undertake prosecution work and the prospect of working more closely with the CPS, alongside our in-house advocates. I am confident that clearly identifiable lists of panel advocates and closer working with CPS will allow us to exchange ideas and good practice which will further increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the prosecution service that we provide to the public.
"This will be a fair and open process with equality of opportunity. I welcome applications from all appropriately qualified advocates who believe they have the necessary ability, knowledge and experience to join the Panel and can make a positive contribution to the prosecution of criminal casework in England and Wales."
