The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases in England and Wales. The CPS are independent and make impartial decisions that are separate from the police and government.
The CPS:
- decides which cases should be prosecuted;
- determines the appropriate charges in more serious or complex cases, and advises the police during the early stages of investigations;
- prepares cases and presents them at court; and
- provides information, assistance and support to victims and prosecution witnesses.
