The profession of prosecutor fascinates by its crucial role within the French judicial system. This profession, full of responsibilities and major challenges, raises many questions, particularly with regard to its remuneration. Let’s dive into the details of salary of a prosecutor in France, its evolution throughout the career and the advantages that accompany it.
Path and training to become a prosecutor
Before addressing the question of salary, it is essential to understand the path that leads to this prestigious position. The journey to becoming a prosecutor begins with law studies in-depth, followed by specific training at the National School of Magistracy (ENM).
Aspiring prosecutors must first obtain a master’s degree in law, then pass the entrance exam at the ENM. This school trains the elite of the French judiciary and plays a vital role in the preparation of future prosecutors. During their training at ENM, students hold the title ofauditors of justice.
Here are the key stages of the training:
- Obtaining a master’s degree in law
- Successful completion of the ENM entrance exam
- 31-month training at ENM
- Practical internships in court
During their training at the ENM, justice auditors receive remuneration of approximately €1,680 gross per month. This allowance, although modest, allows students to devote themselves fully to their learning.
Salary scale and career development
Once the training is completed and entry into the effective judiciary, the salary of a prosecutor evolves according to a well-defined index grid. This progression reflects the experience acquired and increasing responsibilities over the years.
Here is an overview of the salary evolution of a prosecutor:
| Career stage | Monthly net salary |
|---|---|
| Early career | €2,731 |
| After 6 years of practice | €3,662 |
| End of career | Up to €6,999 |
It is essential to note that the median salary of magistrates, the category to which prosecutors belong, amounted to €4,447 gross per month in 2020. This remuneration is considered attractive, particularly in comparison with other legal professions.
Salary growth depends on several factors:
- Seniority in the position
- The grade reached
- Responsibilities assumed
- Individual performances
Advantages and specificities of the profession of prosecutor
Beyond the base salary, the profession of prosecutor offers various advantages and particularities which contribute to its attractiveness. Inasmuch as state officials, prosecutors benefit from job stability and a prestigious status within French society.
Notable advantages include:
- Bonuses and allowances added to base salary
- Prospects for advancement to positions of high responsibility
- Active participation in the administration of justice
- Diversity of cases handled
The profession of prosecutor requires specific qualities such as integrity, rigor and excellent analytical skills. These skills, coupled with the experience acquired, justify the significant salary progression over the course of your career.
It should be noted that the rate of feminization of the profession is constantly increasing, reflecting a general trend in the legal field. This diversification enriches the practice of the profession and opens up new perspectives.
Prospects and challenges of the profession of prosecutor
The role of the prosecutor is constantly evolving in the face of contemporary societal and legal challenges. This constant adaptation is reflected in the missions entrusted to them and, consequently, in their remuneration.
Prosecutors are required to handle increasingly complex cases, particularly in the following areas:
- Cybercrime
- International financial crimes
- Terrorism
- Environmental damage
This diversification of required skills justifies the salary attractiveness of the profession. Furthermore, the career as a prosecutor offers opportunities for advancement to positions of high responsibility, such as attorney general or member of the national financial prosecutor’s office.
Commitment to this demanding profession is rewarded with social recognition and remuneration which reflects the importance of the role played in the French judicial system. THE salary of a prosecutor, although high compared to other professions, remains proportional to the responsibilities and skills required to perform this crucial function for the rule of law.