The Chief State Solicitor’s Office (CSSO) is conducting an open competition for the position of Trainee Solicitor (Specified Purpose Contract) on an Open Trainee Solicitor Scheme (the Open Trainee Scheme). The Open Trainee Scheme is designed to provide opportunities for eligible candidates to participate in formal solicitor training and attend the Law Society of Ireland’s Professional Practice Courses within the environment of the Civil Service. The Law Society has set out the path to Become a Solicitor and the qualifications required.

Trainee Solicitors in the CSSO will receive a unique, varied and comprehensive training at the highest level of solicitor practice which will empower them to become excellent solicitors. During the course of their traineeship, trainees can expect to work across the CSSO with rotations in a variety of areas of legal practice. The approach to training in the CSSO is for the trainee to be ‘hands-on’ and to learn through active practice in a fast-paced environment. Trainees are supported in this by the commitment of management and solicitors across the Office to the success of their trainees.

The CSSO is a collegiate environment and solicitors who are experts in their fields take the time to nurture trainees and to pass on their expertise and experience. They aim to attract individuals with a strong public service ethos who show commitment, energy, sound judgment and an ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines when needed. It is also important that trainees can build relationships, both internally with their colleagues across the Office and externally with our central government clients.

In return, the CSSO gives trainees the opportunity to train at the highest level of solicitor practice. By way of example, this could manifest itself in the defence of litigation concerning the Constitution of Ireland in the Supreme Court or in the negotiation of highly sensitive and significant commercial and property contracts which underpin the operation of the State.

In all areas of practice, the CSSO enables trainees to reach their full potential, thus equipping them for a fulfilling and rewarding career as a solicitor. Trainees will be fully involved in all aspects of office life during their traineeship. They encourage the growth and development of all their Trainees in the areas such as leadership, team building, and interpersonal communication whilst fostering a collaborative environment. They will be invited to participate in their Division’s team meetings and Away Days where legal, professional and soft skills are enhanced off-site and in other internal training sessions.

For more details and to apply for this role please go to: Trainee Solicitor Programme 2027