Prosecution decision framework

Core principles for CPS prosecution decisions.

Prosecutors act independently, fairly and in the public interest. A case must remain within the CPS remit and have a lawful basis before a prosecution decision is taken.

The prosecutor should record the evidence considered, the applicable legal test, significant public-interest factors, required consents or authorisations, safeguarding or rights issues, and the decision reached.

If legal authority is unclear, the case must be escalated through the appropriate legal route rather than treated as authorised by custom, platform practice or an internal document alone.