Prosecutor

What does a prosecutor do? – Tasks and work environment

A prosecutor plays a central role within the Swedish legal system and is responsible for leading investigations, making decisions on prosecutions, and representing the state in court. Tasks include collaborating with police and other authorities, analyzing evidence, and hearing witnesses. On an ordinary workday, cases of varying complexity are handled, from simpler crimes to extensive and high-profile cases. The work environment is primarily office-based but also involves frequent court proceedings, which require a fast pace, analytical skills, and resilience under stress. Prosecutors often work in teams but also bear significant individual responsibility for the decisions made.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, prosecutors have experienced clear salary growth. In 2022, the average salary was 56,500 SEK per month, which increased to 57 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is estimated at 60900 SEK, representing an increase of just over 7.8% over three years. This positive salary trend can be partly explained by the increased demand for qualified legal expertise and a greater focus on legal certainty and efficiency within the justice system. A certain salary disparity between genders is evident, with men earning more on average than women. Overall, the Swedish job market for prosecutors has been stable, but competition for the most experienced and specialized lawyers may influence salary levels further in the future.

Prosecutor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 60900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 58,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 64,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 366 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 90% of what men do (men: 64,800 SEK, women: 58,100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary ranges may vary, but exact statistics are lacking

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a prosecutor is long and demanding, requiring both education and personal qualities. First, a law degree (4.5 years) is needed, followed by a judicial internship and a specialized trainee program at the Swedish Prosecution Authority. Strong analytical skills, integrity, and communication skills are essential for success in the role.

• Law degree: 4.5 years (270 hp)
• Judicial internship: About 2 years as a court clerk at a district court
• Trainee program: 9–12 months at the Swedish Prosecution Authority
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, special eligibility for law studies
• Tips for selection: Internships in the justice system and involvement in legal associations provide valuable credentials

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for prosecutors include occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also offer subsidized healthcare, insurance, and support for continuing education, which enhances the attractiveness of the profession.

Competition and challenges

The competition for prosecutor positions is relatively high, especially in larger cities and for more specialized roles. The high demands regarding education and experience limit the pool of candidates. Workload can be intense, particularly during periods with many complex cases. Balancing work and private life is challenging, as the job often involves long days and high pressure during high-profile trials. At the same time, the profession offers great opportunities for personal and professional development for those with the right drive and commitment.

Tips for aspiring prosecutors

To succeed as a prosecutor, it is beneficial to combine analytical sharpness with good communication skills and integrity. Engaging early in legal associations and seeking internships within the justice system provides valuable experience and networks. Precision and stress management are crucial, as the work often involves quick decisions and pressured situations. Keeping up-to-date with legislation and case law is important to maintain professional competence. A strong sense of justice and the ability to collaborate with various actors in the legal chain facilitate the work. Social skills and empathy are also vital, as interactions with victims and witnesses require professionalism and compassion. Finally, perseverance is key, as the road to becoming a prosecutor is long but highly rewarding for those who are goal-oriented.

Key facts about prosecutors

• Education level: Law degree (4.5 years) + judicial internship
• Work environment: Office-based with high pace and court proceedings
• Typical employment: Permanent position within a government agency
• Demand: High competition, approximately 758 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: Procedural law, evidence assessment, investigation management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a prosecutor, there are opportunities to advance to specialist roles, such as senior prosecutor, chief prosecutor, or process leader in specific crime areas. The role can also develop into international assignments or expert functions within legislation and investigations. Forecasts from the Swedish Employment Service indicate that there is no precise assessment of future prospects due to limited data. The profession is part of a broader occupational group with approximately 758 current job openings, indicating ongoing demand for legal expertise. Overall, the need for qualified prosecutors is expected to remain, especially in areas such as economic crime and organized crime.

Frequently asked questions about prosecutors

• What is the average salary of a prosecutor?
  - A prosecutor has an average salary of 60900 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between genders?
  - Yes, men earn on average 64,800 SEK while women earn 58,100 SEK, which means women earn approximately 90% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a prosecutor?
  - A law degree (4.5 years), judicial internship, and a specialized trainee program at the Swedish Prosecution Authority are required.
• What is the work environment like for prosecutors?
  - The work environment is mainly office-based and includes court hearings, often with a high pace and demands for accuracy.
• How high is the demand for prosecutors?
  - There are approximately 758 job openings, but an exact forecast is unavailable.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for prosecutors?
  - The highest salary is 64,800 SEK per month, and the lowest is 58,100 SEK per month.
• What personal qualities are important for prosecutors?
  - Analytical ability, integrity, resilience under stress, and good communication skills are essential qualities.