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The Role of The Crown Prosecution Service

The Crown Prosecution Service is the government department responsible for prosecuting criminal cases investigated by the police in England and Wales.

As the principal prosecuting authority in England and Wales, we are responsible for:

  • advising the police on cases for possible prosecution
  • reviewing cases submitted by the police
  • determining any charges in more serious or complex cases
  • preparing cases for court
  • presenting cases at court

Find out more about the role of the Crown Prosecution Service

Home » News Centre » Press Releases » CPS welcomes recognition of achievements of its Case Management System

CPS welcomes recognition of achievements of its Case Management System

16/11/2006

A thematic review by Her Majesty's Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) has confirmed the progress made by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in moving to a common national system for managing cases. The COMPASS Case Management System (CMS) implemented by the CPS is a national strategic system and an integral element in joining up and modernising the criminal justice system.

The thematic review highlights that whilst substantial progress has been made, work remains to realise the full potential benefits of the system.

Claire Hamon, CPS Director of Business Information Systems, said:

"We are undertaking a significant business change programme and fully endorse the HMCPSI recommendations. The CPS remains focussed on the continuing business change activities that underpin the successful introduction of a major IT system such as CMS. We are pleased that this review has recognised that CMS has the capability to improve the quality and timeliness of casework and that significant progress has been made in a comparatively short space of time. It is very positive to see that the efforts of the CPS to continually improve the usability and functionality of the system have been acknowledged by the review."

Peter Lewis, CPS Director of Business Development, said:

"This is a very balanced report. We particularly welcome acknowledgement that CMS is delivering benefits to review and decision-making and that the transparency of information is contributing to driving up standards, making staff feel more accountable for the quality of their work. Having a single national IT case management system offers many opportunities to the CPS, and to the wider criminal justice system, and this has been recognised by this review."

For further information contact CPS Press Office on 020 7796 8129.