Category: News

28 October 2026

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is delighted to launch our Clerical Officer competition to fill a number of permanent positions within the Office.

This is an excellent opportunity to begin a rewarding career in Ireland’s public service and play an important role in supporting the prosecution of crime. Clerical Officers provide essential administrative support to legal professionals and contribute to the efficient operation of the Office through a wide range of administrative and customer service functions.

Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work in a professional and collaborative environment, undertaking duties such as processing correspondence, maintaining records, providing reception and telephone support, managing information on case management systems, and supporting colleagues across the organisation. The role offers valuable experience in office administration, information management, customer service and the use of modern ICT systems.

We are seeking candidates who are organised, reliable, detail-oriented and capable of working both independently and as part of a team. This competition may be particularly attractive to those looking to establish a long-term career within the Civil Service and gain experience in a unique and meaningful working environment.

As the core business of the Office is the prosecution of crime, some positions may involve contact with prosecution files which can contain material of a sensitive or distressing nature.

For more information please read the candidate Information Booklet.

Applicants should forward their completed Application Form through the this RMS link to arrive no later than midnight on Wednesday, 11 November 2026.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.

21 October 2026

The ODPP is launching a competition for Legal & Knowledge Management Researchers to join our Legal Research, Knowledge Management and Training Team. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with strong legal research and analytical skills to contribute to the work of a dynamic organisation at the heart of Ireland’s criminal justice system.

The successful candidate will provide high-quality legal research and analysis to support Prosecutors in the performance of their duties. Research work may relate to criminal law, criminal procedure, prosecution policy and points of law arising from ongoing criminal prosecutions. The role also involves contributing to the development of prosecution policy documents and supporting the Office’s responses to requests from national and international bodies.

In addition to legal research responsibilities, Legal & Knowledge Management Researchers play a key role in supporting the Office’s Legal Knowledge Management Strategy. This includes contributing to the maintenance and development of the Office’s SharePoint-based legal knowledge management system, monitoring legal developments, supporting current awareness services and assisting with knowledge management initiatives across the Office.

Reporting to the Senior Legal & Knowledge Management Researchers and the Legal Research, Knowledge Management and Training Manager, the role requires excellent legal research and writing skills, strong attention to detail, an ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and concisely, and an interest in knowledge management and continuous learning.

This is an exciting opportunity for candidates who wish to develop their expertise in legal research while contributing to the fair and effective administration of justice.

A panel will be formed from this competition and will remain active for 18 months.

As the core business of the Office is the prosecution of crime, all legal staff employed by the Office will have some contact with prosecution files, which may contain material of a distressing nature.

For more information please read the candidate Information Booklet.

Applicants should forward their CV and a completed Application Form through the this RMS link to arrive no later than midnight on Tuesday, 10 November 2026.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.

 

12 October 2026

Applications are now open for the Public Law Internship Programme 2027 (formerly The Legal Access Internship Programme). This new name aims to better reflect the broad range of legal career opportunities available across participating public sector organisations.

The programme has been running successfully for a number of years and offers students from underrepresented backgrounds the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a public sector legal environment. Successful applicants will undertake a two-month paid internship commencing in June 2027.

Participating organisations include:

Eligibility

The programme is open to final-year undergraduate law students (or students undertaking an equivalent qualification where law is a major subject) who meet specific eligibility requirements.

Applicants may qualify under one or more of the following pathways:

Pathway 1: Access programme/Access route

You entered higher education through an access programme or access route, including:

Pathway 2: SUSI financial support

You are currently in receipt of, or have previously received, one of the following:

Pathway 3: Registered disability support service user

You are registered with, and currently receive supports from, the disability support service within your higher education institution.

Applicants will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of the application process.

How to Apply

Full details of the programme, including eligibility criteria, participating organisations and application information, are available in the information booklet and application on the Oireachtas website: Work experience – Houses of the Oireachtas

Closing Date: 1 p.m. on Friday, 30 October 2026

18 September 2026

The Director of Public Prosecutions wishes to appoint Counsel to prosecute in Co. Clare. The Director seeks expressions of interest from barristers wishing to be considered for the above panels. Full details of the role are available in this Explanatory Memo.

Applicants should forward a completed application form electronically to: Competitions@dppireland.ie

The selection procedure will include a shortlisting process based on the applications submitted followed by interview.

The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 16th of October at 1:00pm.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.

15 September 2026

The ODPP is launching a competition for Senior Prosecutor in our Regional Office in Cork. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced lawyers to join a dedicated prosecutorial team and play an important role in delivering high-quality prosecution services across the Cork region.

The successful candidate will manage a personal caseload, including complex and specialist criminal matters, and represent the Director before the District Court, Circuit Court, Central Criminal Court and in other proceedings as required. They will provide expert legal analysis and advice, exercise sound professional judgement, and contribute to maintaining high standards of prosecution practice.

Senior Prosecutors also play an important role in supporting the development of legal practice within the Office through mentoring colleagues, sharing knowledge and expertise, contributing to quality assurance activities, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Reporting to a Principal Prosecutor, the post requires strong legal and advocacy skills, sound judgement, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to excellence in public service and ethical practice.

Apply now to play a vital role in supporting the fair and effective administration of justice and the continued development of the ODPP’s Regional Office in Cork.

A panel will be formed from this competition and will remain active for 18 months.

Although the role is based in our Cork Office, successful candidates may be required to attend Dublin for onboarding, induction and any necessary training. They may also be required to attend the Office in Dublin from time to time for meetings during their employment.

The competition will be carried out in line with the codes of practice as published by the Commission for Public Service Appointments.

For more information please read the candidate Information Booklet.

Applicants should forward their CV and a completed Application Form through the this RMS link to arrive no later than midnight on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.

07 September 2026

Legal Knowledge Management & Strategic Projects Manager – Higher Executive Officer

Are you passionate about legal research, strategic thinking and driving meaningful change?

Join the Prosecution Policy and Research Unit (PPRU) and become part of a dynamic team at the forefront of prosecution policy, knowledge management and criminal justice reform.

This is a unique opportunity to work on high-impact projects, collaborate with prosecutors, State Solicitors and justice-sector partners, and contribute to initiatives that strengthen prosecution services nationwide. From influencing strategic priorities and supporting reform programmes to developing innovative knowledge resources, your work will help shape the future of the organisation and the wider criminal justice landscape.

If you’re looking for a role that combines research, innovation, collaboration and real-world impact, we’d love to hear from you.

The competition will be carried out in line with the codes of practice as published by the Commission for Public Service Appointments.

For more information please read the candidate Information Booklet.

Applicants should forward their CV and a completed Application Form through the this RMS link to arrive no later than midnight on Thursday, 24 September 2026.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.

27 July 2026

The Director of Public Prosecutions wishes to appoint Counsel to prosecute in Co. Wexford. The Director seeks expressions of interest from barristers wishing to be considered for the above panels.

Please see the Explanatory Memorandum on Role of Prosecution Counsel.

The selection procedure will include a shortlisting process based on the applications submitted followed by interview.

Applicants should forward their CV and completed Application Form by email to: Competitions@dppireland.ie to arrive no later than 1:00pm on Friday, 21 August 2026.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.

23 July 2026

A vacancy exists for the position of State Solicitor in Galway East.  Details of the duties, terms and conditions of the appointment which is a contract for services for a period of ten years are set out in the Competition Information Booklet which is available on request from the email and contact details set out hereunder.

Solicitors who wish to be considered for appointment to the above positions should apply on the Official Application Form not later than 3:00pm on Monday 14 September 2026.

Application Forms are available from and returnable to:

The Chief Prosecution Solicitor
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
Infirmary Road
Dublin 7
DX 34 Dublin

Email: competitions@dppireland.ie

Candidates may be shortlisted and the making of an application does not entitle an applicant to an interview.

Candidates are instructed not to canvass.

Terms and Conditions apply.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is committed to a policy of equal opportunity. Cuirfear fáilte roimh chomfhreagras i nGaeilge.

26 June 2026

A vacancy exists for the position of State Solicitor in County Roscommon.  Details of the duties, terms and conditions of the appointment which is a contract for services for a period of ten years are set out in the Competition Information Booklet which is available on request from the email and contact details set out hereunder.

Solicitors who wish to be considered for appointment to the above positions should apply on the Official Application Form not later than 3:00pm on Monday 20 July 2026.

Application Forms are available from and returnable to:

The Chief Prosecution Solicitor
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
Infirmary Road
Dublin 7
DX 34 Dublin

Email: competitions@dppireland.ie

Candidates may be shortlisted and the making of an application does not entitle an applicant to an interview.

Candidates are instructed not to canvass.

Terms and Conditions apply.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is committed to a policy of equal opportunity. Cuirfear fáilte roimh chomfhreagras i nGaeilge.

08 June 2026

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is seeking an experienced ICT professional to take on the role of ICT Project Manager (Assistant Principal) as part of a major digital transformation programme

This is a pivotal role leading the delivery of the replacement of the Office’s legacy Case Management System — a critical platform underpinning legal decision-making, case tracking, and data-driven operations. The successful candidate will play a central role in delivering a secure, modern and future-focused solution to support the prosecution service in an increasingly complex and digital justice environment.

As part of the ICT Unit, the ICT Project Manager will lead high-impact projects from initiation through to implementation, working closely with legal, operational and technical stakeholders, external vendors and criminal justice partners. The role will also contribute to a broader portfolio of ICT and organisational projects, supporting innovation, modernisation and continuous improvement across the Office.

We are seeking a proven project delivery professional with strong leadership, stakeholder engagement and governance experience, ideally within complex or regulated environments. This is a unique opportunity to shape the digital future of the ODPP and contribute to the effective delivery of justice services.

The competition will be carried out in line with the codes of practice as published by the Commission for Public Service Appointments which are available at http://www.cpsa.ie/

For more information please read the candidate Information Booklet.

Applicants should forward their CV and a completed Application Form by email to: recruitment@dppireland.ie to arrive no later than 1pm on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.

Information on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is available here on this website.