Core Quality Standards

In 2010 the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) published a public consultation on twelve standards which set out the CPS pledge to the public and other criminal justice agencies.

Every member of staff in every case works towards these standards to ensure the CPS continues to consistently deliver the high standard of service we have come to expect.

The standards are as follows:

Standard 1: We will provide the police and other investigators with advice to assist in tackling crime effectively and bringing offenders to justice.

Standard 2: We will make timely, effective and fair charging decisions in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.

Standard 3: We will use out-of-court disposals as alternatives to prosecution, where appropriate, to gain speedy reparation for victims and to rehabilitate or punish offenders.

Standard 4: We will oppose bail for defendants where appropriate, taking particular account of the risk posed to victims and the public.

Standard 5: We will prepare all our cases promptly and in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Rules so that guilty pleas can be entered at the earliest opportunity, and fair trials can take place on the appointed dates.

Standard 6: We will present our cases fairly and firmly.

Standard 7: We will assess the needs of victims and witnesses, keep them informed about the progress of their case and seek appropriate support to help them to give their best evidence.

Standard 8: We will explain our decisions to victims when we stop cases or substantially alter the charge.

Standard 9: We will assist the court in the sentencing process and seek to confiscate the proceeds of crime.

Standard 10: We will consider whether to exercise our rights of appeal when we believe the court has made the wrong legal decision.

Standard 11: We will deal promptly and openly with complaints about our decisions and the service we provide.

Standard 12: We will engage with communities so that we are aware of their concerns when we make decisions.