In 2008, a significant shift occurred in Starmer's career when he was appointed Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and Head of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). This move was surprising to some, as he had spent his career defending individuals against the state. However, Starmer saw it as an opportunity to change the system from within. As DPP, he was responsible for overseeing some of the most complex criminal prosecutions in the country. He implemented reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of the justice system and ensuring that victims of crime felt supported throughout the legal process. His tenure at the CPS was characterized by an attempt to modernize the institution and bring greater transparency to criminal justice.