The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is delighted to advertise this Specialist Prosecutor role within CPS Proceeds of Crime (CPS POC).
The CPS is responsible for delivering justice through the independent and effective prosecution of crime. As such we employ almost 6,000 individuals who conduct independent and fair prosecutions, behave professionally, treat everyone with respect and continuously strive for excellence.

We are looking for individuals who are committed to public service and to making a difference in people’s lives. Our colleagues are encouraged to work more flexibly and collaboratively, exploring new and innovative ways to improve the way we provide services.

Whilst in general the reduction of crime is best secured through criminal investigations and proceedings, civil powers under Part 5 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 also make an important contribution to the reduction of crime. The post holder will be at the forefront of delivering this capability in CPS.

Subject to the postholder satisfying the “general qualification” provision within the meaning of section 71 of the Courts and Service Act 1990, the post is designated by the Director of Public Prosecutions as a Crown Prosecutor under the terms of section 1 (3) of the prosecution of Offences Act (1985).

Candidates must have the below essential experience;

Respected and proven legal expertise in respect of civil litigation, with depth and breadth of exposure to complex casework.

In-depth knowledge of the law and procedure relating to Parts 2, 5 and 8 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

A good working knowledge of criminal and civil law including the law and procedure relating to criminal and civil disclosure and the handling of sensitive information.

Relevant post qualification experience.

Candidates must also have the below essential technical skills;

The post holder must be a qualified practising solicitor or barrister, possessing a law degree or Common Professional Examination, having completed a Legal Practice Course or the Bar Vocational Course and the relevant pupillage.

For further information on how to apply, please see the Candidate Pack at the bottom of this page.

Please note excess fares will not apply.

We are running a Meet and Engage Session as well as an Application Workshop for this campaign. These sessions are designed to help candidates with the recruitment process and provide further information regarding assessment criteria. Further details on this can be found in the Selection Process Details section below. Job description This post is one of the most demanding within the CPS. The post holder must demonstrate a high level of expert knowledge of the law within the context of dealing with difficult, serious, complex and/or sensitive civil litigation in the High Court, ideally under Part 5 the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA).

CPS POC is at the forefront of the fight against economic crime, ensuring that criminal assets are restrained, confiscated and enforced, so that criminals do not benefit from their ill-gotten gains. We are also working with law enforcement colleagues to use civil recovery powers to target unexplained wealth.

We work with foreign governments to repatriate funds to the UK, as well as restraining and returning money abroad where it is derived from criminal activity overseas. CPS POC also handles civil litigation arising out of the exercise of prosecutorial functions of the CPS.

The Civil Recovery Unit within CPS POC is a national team which handles civil recovery litigation, and which is expecting an increase in civil recovery casework. The purpose of this role is to advise on and prepare specialist civil recovery cases for CPS POC. Applicants should pay particular attention to the “Essential Technical Requirement” and “Essential Experience” sections applicable to this post.

The purpose of this Specialist Prosecutor role is to deal with investigative and substantive litigation under Parts 5 and 8 of POCA. Accordingly, extensive experience of High Court civil litigation is essential.
  Responsibilities Conduct civil POCA litigation in accordance with POCA, case law, the Civil Procedure Rules and Practice Directions.

Provide advice to police and other investigatory bodies, as well as to CPS POC, Areas and Casework Divisions, on the law and procedure, even where there may be no available precedent. Interpret and apply the law effectively, even where there may be no available precedent. The post holder must have an in-depth knowledge of the procedures for obtaining evidence and disclosure, including in relation to material held by third parties, in civil litigation.

Advise on cases involving large quantities of material, taking on board issues regarding availability and admissibility of evidence, requesting mutual assistance, civil and criminal disclosure and on the merits of applying for civil POCA orders in conjunction with or instead of criminal prosecutions.

Effectively manage a personal case load, devise robust case strategies, actively progress case preparation within agreed timescales, comply with judicial orders, maintain a comprehensive written record of key decisions and actions taken and provide regular updates to managers. Work with the RART lawyers and civil recovery financial investigators, supported by the allocated caseworker, to manage and direct work in relation to all aspects of case management. Prepare case plans with the RART lawyers and financial investigators including the use of Counsel, seeking appropriate authority where required, and to monitor progress against the agreed case plan. Manage costs risks and take remedial action to maintain costs within budget.

Deal effectively and persuasively with a wide range of people, both internally and externally, as part of a multi-skilled team or individually, to ensure the effective and successful litigation of cases. Engage with all relevant agencies for debriefings in order to learn lessons, improve practices and share findings from debriefings with colleagues to improve the quality of the Unit’s casework and overall performance.

Demonstrate a high level of oral and written communication skills in all matters relating to litigating serious, complex or sensitive cases, in particular the ability to distil and explain legal complexities and decisions in non-legal language. Draft complex documentation, pleadings, internal and external briefings as the need arises and possess well developed media handling skills to maintain public confidence.

Advise, train and raise awareness of civil POCA powers with CPS colleagues and the police. Think strategically beyond the case considering outside interests including any political implications. Establish own credibility and earn respect of key stakeholders through depth of specialist knowledge.

Contribute to the personal development of members of staff. Be visible to staff and stakeholders, confidently engaging at all levels to build trust and commitment to goals. Qualifications Legally Qualified: The post holder must be a qualified practising solicitor or barrister and must hold a valid Practising Certificate for England and Wales.

Academic: Law degree, Common Professional Examination, Graduate Diploma in Law.

Professional: Legal Practice Course or Bar Professional Training Course and have completed the relevant pupillage and training contract (or have received full exemption from the relevant professional regulatory body, either the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Bar Standards Board).

OR

If you have qualified through Cilex could you please contact us in order to establish your eligibility for this role.

If you apply AND are found not to possess any of the above any offer of employment will be withdrawn, or contract terminated.

Please note the qualification as stated is required for this role and equivalent qualifications will not be accepted.

If you are unsure about your eligibility please contact Cara.Thomas@cps.gov.uk Memberships The successful applicant must have a valid practising certificate for England and Wales or be eligible to obtain a valid practising certificate issued from either the Solicitors Regulation Authority or the Bar Standards Board.

If CILEx qualified, must hold a ‘general qualification’ within the meaning of s.71 (3) (c) Courts and Legal Services Act 1990. Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Making Effective Decisions
• Communicating and Influencing
• Managing a Quality Service
• Delivering at Pace
• Technical skills

  We'll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

• The post holder must be a qualified practising solicitor or barrister, possessing a law degree or Common Professional Examination, having completed a Legal Practice Course or the Bar Vocational Course and the relevant pupillage.
• Benefits Employee Wellbeing Support, such as Mental Health First Aiders & Allies, Free Health Checks, Workplace Wellness Courses, and Healthcare access
  • Volunteering Leave
  • Cycle2Work scheme, Bike, Parking and Season Ticket Loans
  • Access to CPS Reward Schemes
  • Flexible Working and a family friendly approach to work
  • Childcare vouchers outside and in addition to Government Tax Free Childcare Scheme
  • 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 1 privilege day
  • Civil Service Pension
  
  Working for the Crown Prosecution Service you will also gain access to a range of learning and development activities, including through Civil Service Learning and an individual learning account in addition to any central and local development opportunities and requirements.
  
  This is a full-time post. However, requests for flexible, part-time working and job share will be considered, considering at all times the operational needs of the Department.
  
  Candidates who are recommended by the selection panel but not appointed to the current vacancy will be placed on a waiting list for 12 months and may be offered another post, should any further vacancies for a Specialist Prosecutor arise in the CPS Proceeds of Crime during this period. CPS may also approach candidates on the waiting list to fill other CPS Proceeds of Crime roles requiring similar knowledge and experience.
  
  The CPS has designed a specific Management Development Programme to support all new and experienced managers in developing the skills, behaviour and knowledge to build their confidence and capability. We strongly recommend that all new managers undertake the Developing Manager Programme, which has the added benefit of a Chartered Management Institute accredited Level 3 qualification in Principles of Management and Leadership. Things you need to know Security Successful candidates must pass a disclosure and barring security check. Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check.
  
  See our vetting charter. People working with government assets must complete basic personnel security standard checks. Selection process details This vacancy is using Success Profiles, and will assess your Behaviours, Strengths, Experience and Technical skills. The recruitment process will consist of an online application and interview which will be held on the 22nd of September 2021.
  
  Due to the current Covid-19 situation, your interview will be conducted via Video. A member of our recruitment team will be in touch with further guidance. If you have any queries about this please contact the CPS Recruitment Team at Strategic.Resourcing@cps.gov.uk
  
  You should keep this date free or notify us if you are not available. We will make every effort to accommodate you in your preference for dates; however we cannot guarantee that they will be met.
  
  The successful applicant will be required to secure DBS & SC clearance; to speed up this process; you should bring 3 forms of ID with you on the day of interview. Data gathered from unsuccessful candidates will be destroyed in accordance with our Data Retention Policy.
  
  If successful in obtaining an interview you will be asked to complete the Character Enquiry Form, Nationality and Immigration Questionnaire and National Security Vetting Form.
  
  (If you are an internal member of staff, you will not be required to undergo this DBS check as you will already hold this clearance)
  
  Meet and Engage Session
  
  We will be holding a webchat whilst the campaign is live, and you can register for this via the link below:
  
  Monday 24th August – 4:30pm to 5:30pm – https://meetandengage.com/aks0cgba8
  
  This session will be available for candidates to ask any questions regarding this campaign. There will be delegates on hand
  from CPS to answer any queries candidates may have.
  
  Application Workshop
  
  We will also be holding an application workshop online, inviting candidates to join us between 10:00am and 12:00pm on Wednesday 25th August 2021. This workshop will be presented by colleagues within Proceeds of Crime, who will cover topics such as the Application, Assessment, and also talk about how to construct the best personal statement to submit for this campaign. These sessions have been hugely beneficial to candidates in the past, and provide feedback from previous campaigns, that candidates can use to improve their application prospects.
  
  If you are interested in registering for this workshop, please email Cara.Thomas@cps.gov.uk by Monday 23rd August
  and you will be sent a link to access the workshop via Microsoft Teams. You will only be able to attend if you register your interest, as this will mean a link is sent for access.
  
  Application (using the text box provided online)
  
  As part of your application, you will need submit answers to the following questions which are aligned to the specific behaviours being assessed at application stage. Please note, you have 1250 words total to cover all of your answers.
  
  1. Making Effective Decision
  Give an example of a key casework decision, explain how you analysed the material, decided upon the best option, and overcame any challenges whilst managing risk.
  
  2. Delivering at Pace
  Give an example of when you worked with others to deliver a casework outcome to time, setting out what plans you put in place, how you monitored progress ensuring your case team understood what they needed to do.
  
  3. Communicating and Influencing
  Give an example of when you had to deliver a difficult message setting out how you adapted your communication style and the strategies you applied to gain agreement.
  
  4. Managing Quality Service
  Give an example of when you have had to balance competing casework priorities, setting out how you identified and analysed the risks and what legal considerations you took into account to identify the best solution.
  
  In addition, you will need to demonstrate the essential experience, technical skills and abilities required for this role, detailed in the Experience/Technical/ Abilities Section of the Candidate Pack.
  
  CV Section (using the text boxes provided online)
  
  You will not be required to upload your CV however, when submitting your application there is a ‘CV section.’ You will be required to provide information regarding your skills, employment history and qualification details.
  
  Please note that it is the candidate’s responsibility to provide the specified application information in the requested format to ensure that they are considered for the post.
  
  Civil Service Commissioners
  
  From April 2018, the CPS will provide a Fair Processing Notice (FPN) to all new applicants after they have been successful at interview. These candidates will be informed that, as one aspect of pre-employment screening, their personal details – name, National Insurance Number and date of birth - will be checked against the Internal Fraud Database (IFD) and that anyone included on the IFD will be refused employment unless they can demonstrate exceptional circumstances.
  
  The Strategic Resourcing team in the CPS will, on behalf of the vacancy holder, inform applicants when they are refused employment because of their inclusion in the IFD.
  
  Feedback will not be provided until the vacancy is complete
  
  If you are dissatisfied with the recruitment process and wish to make a complaint, please contact Strategic.Resourcing@cps.gov.uk with your concerns.
  
  If you remain dissatisfied and wish to make a further complaint, please click on the following link to the Civil Service Commissioners complaints page https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/recruitment/civilservicerecruitmentcomplaints/
  
  Civil Service Commissioners Recruitment Principles can be found here –
  https://civilservicecommission.independent.gov.uk/recruitment/
  
  Details of the Civil Service Nationality Rules are located at:
  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nationality-rules
  
  Candidates will be subject to UK immigration requirements. For the most up-to-date information on the requirements of working in the UK, please go to the UK Visas and Immigration website: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas
  
  Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment. Nationality requirements

  This job is broadly open to the following groups:

  • UK nationals
  • nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
  • nationals of the Republic of Ireland
  • nationals from the EU, EEA or Switzerland with settled or pre-settled status or who apply for either status by the deadline of the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
  • relevant EU, EEA, Swiss or Turkish nationals working in the Civil Service
  • relevant EU, EEA, Swiss or Turkish nationals who have built up the right to work in the Civil Service
  • certain family members of the relevant EU, EEA, Swiss or Turkish nationals
  Further information on nationality requirements Working for the Civil Service The Civil Service Code sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants.
  
  We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles. The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. Apply and further information Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. Contact point for applicants Job contact : Name :   Cara Thomas Email :   Cara.Thomas@cps.gov.uk Telephone :   0151 213 5099   Recruitment team : Email :   strategic.resourcing@cps.gov.uk