Advocate Panels: Application Portal
The Advocate Panels Application Portal was launched in September 2020. All applicants to the CPS Advocate Panel are required to apply using the online application portal. The links for registration and for gaining access to applicant and referee dashboards are available on the right-hand sidebar (or below, if viewing on a smartphone). Helpful videos explaining the process for registration and applying can be found below.
All queries regarding the Advocate Panels Application Portal should be directed to: Advocate.Panels@cps.gov.uk.
Tips for drafting a good application
Tips for drafting a good application
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| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Read selection criteria for the relevant panel and level to ensure you satisfy the requirements and can provide sufficient evidence for each section. | Don’t use declaratory statements without supporting evidence. |
| Familiarise yourself with CPS Policies, the Code for Crown Prosecutors and Farquharson Guidelines. | Don’t list cases without clear and sufficient detail. |
| Notify referees early (if application requires a reference) – at least 28 days prior to deadline. | Don’t apply before you are ready and can satisfy the requirements for that level. Each selection criteria provides a guide for the suggested number of years’ experience for that level. |
| Structure your examples using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method. | Don’t use case names. Avoiding case names will ensure compliance with the sensitive identifying case information guidance. |
| Focus on your individual action/personal contribution when providing evidence. | Don’t include your name anywhere on your application (including supporting documents – check end of document). |
| Provide evidence for each criterion listed within the selection criteria. | Don’t include links to websites, including links to cases mentioned in your application. |
| Use R v initial when referring to cases, as opposed to full case names. | Don’t write answers to questions in all capitals or in bold type. |
| Format and proof read your application, ensuring it is well-structured and that all spelling and grammatical errors are amended prior to submission. | Don’t submit long supporting documents (over 5 pages). These might not be read by the assessors. |
| Ask the Advocate Panel Team for help/advice if unsure of anything. |
Advocate Panels - Magistrates’ and Youth Court Panel
All relevant details about applying for the Panels
Details2020 Panel – General Crime and Rape and Serious Sexual Offences
All relevant details about applying for the Panels
DetailsApplication Portal explainer videos
Contents
- Advocate Panels Application Portal: New User Registration
- Application Portal: Dashboard and continuing your application
- Advocate Panel Application: Logging in
- Advocate Panel Application: Changing your details
- Tips on drafting a good online application
- Application Portal: Referee registration
- Application Portal: Complete a Reference