Chapter 11

The CPS advises the police on bringing a prosecution. It makes the decision whether or not to prosecute someone who has been charged with an offence and then prepares the case against the offender and brings the prosecution to court. The CPS is headed by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The Government’s most senior prosecutor. The DPP is head of the Crown Prosecution Service, and reports to the Attorney General.

A declaration made by a defendant at the outset of a criminal trial stating whether he or she is guilty or not guilty. This process is described as ‘entering a plea’ or as ‘pleading’ guilty or not guilty.

The release of an accused person from custody until the hearing of a trial

Is passed if the accused is found guilty

something that makes a crime more serious