Updated: 3 March 2022

This guidance sets out the factors to be taken into consideration when reviewing cases and prosecuting offences classified as Disability Hate Crime (DHC). It also addresses the approach to be taken in other cases in which disability is a factor.

Updated: 2 August 2022; Updated 4 October 2023

The CPS is sometimes asked to supply to third parties copies of documents held in prosecution files. The request might be made for the purpose of prosecuting or defending a private prosecution; for civil proceedings; for proceedings involving interested third parties such as local authorities in child care cases, NOMS, Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority; or miscellaneous requests for the purpose of local crime prevention initiatives etc.

Updated: 5 November 2021

This guidance is intended to provide information on the stance taken by the Courts in relation to Non Accidental Head Injury (NAHI) cases and to assist prosecutors in the approach and presentation of such cases.

updated 26 February 2020 link for Sentencing Councils Totality definitive guidelines

These include:

Reviewed and updated April 2023

Updated: October 2019; 1 November 2024

Updated: 24 February 2023; 17 May 2023; 25 October 2023

The CPS has a statutory duty under section 3(2) (a) Prosecution of Offences Act 1985 (the Act) to take over proceedings instituted by or on behalf of the police. However, the CPS also has discretion to take over proceedings in any other case under section 6(2) of the Act.

updated 11 November 2019

Revised: 04 January 2019; 25 April 2024

Updated: 9 November 2023; 27 March 2025