For most of us our perception of a public prosecutor’s job is what we see on TV, often typecast as the opposing counsel in a protagonist’s fight… But in reality, public prosecutors play an integral role in the system of justice. Without public prosecutors, crimes against the community cannot be tried. Internationally, the United Nations relies on prosecutors to perform a crucial role:
They are the 'gate keepers' of criminal justice, insofar as without their initiative there cannot be the prosecution and repression of crimes. Prosecution services are, in fact, society's principal means of pursuing punishment of criminal behaviour and its interface with the adjudicative power.
In Australia, the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) has been Australia’s Federal prosecution agency for close to 40 years. The CDPP holds a wide and diverse mandate covering criminal offences including environmental vandalism and exploitation of government programs to online child exploitation, human trafficking, and terrorism offences. Issues facing everyday Australians from major data breaches to the outcomes from a Royal Commission, all sit with the CDPP.
For young lawyers there are a vast number of career paths on offer, but for those who want to have an impact in the field of criminal law, a career with the CDPP may be what you are looking for. Unique and cutting-edge cases are par for the course when working at the CDPP, an environment Eliza Amparo, Acting Deputy Director at the CDPP, describes as “dynamic, intellectually stimulating and rewarding”.
We spoke to Eliza Amparo to lift the veil on the life of a public prosecutor, a pathway she says will offer world-class training and an inspiring career.
The CDPP works in Specialised Practice Groups
The first thing Eliza would like lawyers to understand is that the CDPP is organised into specialised practice groups that focus on different crime types. There is an opportunity to work across a diverse range of cases across these Practice Groups.
“You can prosecute corporate, taxation and corruption offences; organised and transnational crime and national security; human exploitation; or a range of fraud-related offences alongside specialist agencies,” Eliza explains. “You'll have the opportunity to work in different practice groups, allowing you to explore various areas of interest.”
In the realm of Organised Crime and National Security, Eliza has dealt with some of the most notable cases involving transnational crime, money laundering and national security threats including counter terrorism and foreign interference cases. These cases required a meticulous approach, careful analysis of the evidence, the ability to navigate complex legal frameworks and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of professionals.
“During my time in the fraud branch, I tackled a broad spectrum of fraud-related offences. These cases demanded a keen eye for detail and the ability to decipher complex financial transactions. My close work with specialist agencies and application of technical knowledge and expertise in the field had resulted in the successful prosecution of numerous individuals and organisations involved in fraudulent activities.”
Eliza is currently working on Human Exploitation and Border Protection cases which involve combatting and prosecuting human trafficking, online child sex exploitation, cybercrime and drug importation offences.
“By working closely with partner agencies and law enforcement, this work contributes to the protection of the vulnerable by bringing offenders to justice,” Eliza says. “The CDPP’s dedicated victim and witness assistance team provide support to victims throughout the challenging prosecution process.”
At the forefront of innovation and tech
Early adoption of the latest technological innovations in the legal space and putting them into practice is an approach the CDPP is committed to.
“Throughout my career with the CDPP I have witnessed firsthand the organisation’s commitment to innovation and embracing technological advancements,” Eliza explains. “From electronic briefs of evidence to e-trials, the CDPP has been at the forefront of adopting digital solutions to enhance efficiency and streamline processes. This forward-thinking approach has allowed the CDPP to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal law, ensuring they remain agile and effective in their pursuit of justice.”
The CDPP ensures it is up to date with innovations and advancements in relevant technology. The Office is currently designing an evidence management system that can handle the vast amounts of evidence received from its partner agencies. The CDPP also focuses on capability uplift for staff and partner agencies, enhancements to processes and a range of support for its people.
A unique legal environment with a passionate and supportive culture
“What sets the CDPP apart is not only the breadth of cases but the people who form its foundation. The strong sense of camaraderie and the sense of belonging that permeate the organisation is amazing,” Eliza says. “Working alongside a committed and friendly group of professionals you'll find support, collaboration and an environment that fosters personal and professional growth. The CDPP believes that together, as a team, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes.”
Another aspect of working with the CDPP to take note of is its flexible working arrangements. Understanding the diverse needs and commitments of its employees, the CDPP promotes a healthy work-life balance and encourages flexible work arrangements. This flexibility not only enhances productivity and well-being but also encourages a culture of trust and empowerment.
“Working at the CDPP has been an incredibly rewarding journey for me,” Eliza shares. “The opportunities for growth, the diverse range of cases and the unwavering commitment to justice by our staff have made every day meaningful.
“If you're a passionate lawyer seeking a challenging and fulfilling career, I highly encourage you to join the CDPP. Here you'll have the chance to make a real difference in society, work alongside brilliant minds and be part of a team dedicated to upholding the rule of law.”
National opportunities
With offices in each capital city, as well as Townsville and Cairns, the CDPP operates as a national office. It provides online resources and detailed policies tailored to deal with different offence provisions, ensuring that young lawyers receive support and guidance.
The CDPP offers bespoke prosecutor training in managing complex litigation. It also provides regular continuing professional development training sessions to build legal and technical skills as well as keep their lawyers’ practical skills fresh.
The public prosecution path can provide aspiring lawyers with an opportunity to cultivate their passion for criminal law, foster meaningful connections and work on diverse and impactful cases.
Whether it's fighting against human exploitation, dismantling organised crime networks, or prosecuting fraud-related crimes, the CDPP offers an avenue that can make tangible differences to the lives of individuals and communities.
About Eliza Amparo:
Eliza Amparo, Acting Deputy Director at the CDPP, embodies the career trajectory young lawyers can experience within the organisation. Beginning her journey as a junior prosecutor in a general prosecutions and fraud branch, she then moved into other diverse practice groups, including the challenging area of Organised Crime and National Security (OCNS) and the pivotal Human Exploitation and Border Protection (HEBP) practice group, where she currently serves as the national Practice Group Leader. She has been involved in criminal cases heard at all levels of the court hierarchy, demonstrating the vast learning opportunities and professional growth available at the CDPP.
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