Work with us

A career with the Chief State Solicitor’s Office offers an unrivalled opportunity to work with one of the largest law offices in the country. Whether you are prospective solicitor seeking a traineeship, a newly qualified solicitor eager to begin your legal career, an experienced solicitor looking for a change from the private practice dynamic, or a professional from a related field, we provide an exceptional platform for growth, professional development, and meaningful work that impacts the entire nation.

Working with the CSSO offers legal professionals at all levels a unique alternative to private practice. It provides a refreshing opportunity for solicitors to focus on delivering high-quality legal services for a single significant client: the Government of Ireland. Our client is divided across multiple departments and organisations, enabling you to engage in a broad range of legal work that directly affects the nation’s governance and public policy. The complexity and sensitivity of the legal matters we handle mean that your work will often be high-profile and have a direct impact on society.

For litigators, this means frequent appearances before the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court, where you will work on the most prominent cases of the day, shaping the legal landscape of Ireland. Located near the Four Courts complex, our office is ideally positioned to engage in these significant legal proceedings. We also represent Ireland internationally before the CJEU in Luxembourg.

For those involved in advisory work, government departments rely on the CSSO’s expert advices to navigate complex legal challenges. You will play a crucial role in guiding public policy through your legal advice, ensuring the State is equipped to handle evolving legal issues. For conveyancers, the CSSO offers the opportunity to work on large-scale property transactions, including managing the State’s vast portfolio through the Office of Public Works.

At the CSSO, you will have the opportunity to work on complex and intellectually challenging legal subjects, work on high-profile cases, and be at the forefront of public law, commercial law and regulatory law. If you are looking for a career in law where your work has a tangible impact, contributes to the development of the law, and serves the public interest, the CSSO may be the place for you.

What truly sets the CSSO apart is the ethos of public service. The work you undertake will not be driven by commercial interests, but by the objective of delivering high-quality legal services that serve the public interest. You will be contributing to legal decisions that affect the lives of citizens, giving you a sense of purpose and professional fulfilment that few roles can offer.

Joining the CSSO also provides the chance to engage with law at a national, EU, and international level, representing Ireland in legal matters that are not available in private practice. You will be involved in shaping the law and contributing to legal developments both domestically and internationally.

Work-life balance

The CSSO recognises the importance of job satisfaction and the positive impact this can have on employee wellbeing. We promote a collaborative, open and friendly working environment which facilitates effective working practices. The CSSO provides a range of supports to achieve this, including:

• Blended working: the CSSO operates a blended working environment, with office attendance determined by business needs; worksharing arrangements may also be facilitated
• Special leave: a wide range of special leave options is available, including maternity, paternity and parental leave

Continuing professional development

We are committed to supporting the growth and development of our solicitors, whether you are newly qualified or an established practitioner. Tailored training programmes, legal CPD opportunities and leadership pathways are all part of our offer. For senior solicitors, we offer direct entry opportunities to manage teams and shape the direction of the Office’s legal work. With our diverse and supportive environment, solicitors from all backgrounds can thrive, and secure a fulfilling and rewarding career in law.

We invite you to explore the opportunities available with the CSSO and join a team committed to shaping the future of the legal landscape.

Interested in working with us?

Vacancies are advertised on our LinkedIn page, on the Recruitment page on our website and through the Public Appointments Service. Recruitment is ongoing throughout the year, so even if you miss a specific vacancy, we encourage you follow us on LinkedIn and to check our website and the Public Appointments Service for future opportunities.

The CSSO may not suit you today, but it could be the perfect fit in the future.

More information about the CSSO