What we do

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 all but minor cases
• Preparing cases for court
• Presenting cases at court

What we don't do

• Decide sentencing. For more information about sentencing, visit the sentencing guidelines website: sentencing guidelines
• Offer support to defendants
• Give independent legal advice to the public
• Deal with cases which are not criminal law

For more information about what the CPS does visit our national website: www.cps.gov.uk