Child Sexual Abuse: Guidelines on Prosecuting Cases of Child Sexual Abuse
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This prosecution guidance provides a comprehensive framework for prosecutors handling cases of child sexual abuse, emphasizing the necessity of early police-CPS consultation, victim support, and careful consideration of the evidential aspects of child sexual abuse cases. It outlines the process of prosecution, key considerations in assessing credibility, and the importance of addressing myths and stereotypes surrounding such cases. Additionally, it details the support mechanisms available to victims and witnesses throughout the prosecutorial process.
Key points
- Consult with CPS early in complex child sexual abuse cases.
- Prosecutors should consider the wider context of abuse accusations.
- Victims must receive appropriate support throughout the legal process.
- Consider the credibility of allegations based on victim and suspect behavior.
- Awareness of myths surrounding child sexual abuse is essential in court.
- Prosecutors should focus on building a robust evidential case.
Public-interest factors
- Protection of children and vulnerable individuals.
- Deterrence of offenders from committing child sexual abuse.
- Upholding public confidence in the justice system.
- Ensuring that victims receive justice and support.
- Addressing the needs of child victims and witnesses.
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.