Trainee Solicitor Programme
- Published on: 27 May 2024
- Last updated on: 11 May 2026
- Why train in the CSSO?
- What our trainees say
- Trainee wellbeing and professional development
- Salary and fees
- Applying for a CSSO Traineeship
- Trainee Solicitor Programme 2027
- More information about the CSSO
Applications are now open for our 2027 Trainee Solicitor Programme. The closing date is 3pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026.
Why train in the CSSO?
As a trainee solicitor with the CSSO, you will be afforded a unique opportunity to develop your legal expertise in an environment that can offer more than private practice. From the outset, you will be immersed in a diverse range of legal work that has real impact on the functioning of the State, handling cases that frequently involve public law, constitutional law, commercial transactions, and litigation. At the CSSO, even as a trainee, you will be an integral part of teams working on complex legal issues that influence national policy and public governance. You will have direct exposure to high-profile cases that shape the law at the highest levels.
In addition to courtroom experience, you will also work closely with government departments, offering strategic legal advice on critical issues ranging from regulatory frameworks to legislative interpretation. This exposure will not only broaden your understanding of the law but also sharpen your ability to apply legal principles in dynamic, real-world contexts.
Your time as a trainee will be enriched by the CSSO’s structured mentorship programme, where you will work under the guidance of senior solicitors who are leading experts in their fields. This mentorship, combined with formal training programmes, will ensure that you are supported in every aspect of your professional development, from honing your legal drafting skills to mastering courtroom advocacy.
The CSSO offers exposure to legal matters not only at the national level but also within the EU and on the international stage, offering a breadth of experience that is seldom available elsewhere. By the end of your traineeship, you will have gained an invaluable grounding in law that will enable you to forge a successful and rewarding career, equipped with skills and experiences that are truly unique.
What our trainees say
The CSSO offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain experience working in some of the most important areas of public law in Ireland. Trainees are given the chance to engage in substantive, meaningful work on high profile cases that not only apply the law but shape it.
Throughout my traineeship in the Office, I have been fortunate enough to gain practical exposure to complex and interesting matters on the cutting edge of public law practice. Ranging from conveyances involving historic sites and critical infrastructure to judicial review matters, my experience has been diverse and varied.
The Office also has a genuinely friendly and collegiate atmosphere, with support and guidance always available. I have also been able to further my professional development with access to a broad range of training opportunities.
I have really enjoyed my time as a Trainee in the CSSO. If you have an interest in public law, public service values and want a truly unique experience, this is the traineeship for you.
Daniel Mooney, Trainee Solicitor
Trainee wellbeing and professional development
The CSSO recognises the importance of work-life balance to trainees and the positive impact this can have on a trainee’s wellbeing. We offer supports such as blended working opportunities, whereby trainees may work part of their week in the office and part from home.
Our Social Committee organises events throughout the year - a fun way to get to know your colleagues. We also offer a comprehensive occupational health and wellbeing programme including an Employee Assistance Programme, health and nutrition advice and wellbeing talks.
We recognise the value of investing in our trainees, and developing their skillsets both to their benefit and to the benefit of our overall capability as an organisation. Our Induction Buddy Scheme pairs trainees with solicitors during their rotations to provide extra support during their training. Trainees also have access to training initiatives provided by the Civil Service Learning and Development Centre and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses by the Law Society of Ireland.
Salary and fees
The Trainee Solicitor Programme salary is:
- Year 1: €34,650
- Year 2: €35,923
- Year 3: €37,194
The CSSO covers all fees for the full time Law Society Professional Practice Course.
Applying for a CSSO Traineeship
The application process includes an application form and a competency based interview. We recruit annually, typically during the months of May or June, for admission in September of the following year. Our annual recruitment campaign is advertised on our website and our LinkedIn page.
We accept applications from students of all disciplines so there is no requirement to have studied law. We accept applicants who have at least three Law Society Final Examinations (FE-1s) completed.
We are looking for graduates with a strong sense of public service who are interested in beginning their law career within a leading public organisation.
Comprehensive information about becoming a solicitor in Ireland is available on the Law Society of Ireland's website.
Trainee Solicitor Programme 2027
Applications are now open for our Trainee Solicitor Programme. For information on this competition and the application process, please see the information booklet below. There are two application forms (A and B), both of which must be completed.
The closing date is 15:00 on Wednesday 27 May 2026.
