Controlling or Coercive Behaviour in an Intimate or Family Relationship
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 guidance outlines the legal framework and prosecutorial approach to controlling or coercive behavior as defined under Section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing this crime within domestic abuse contexts and provides practical considerations for prosecutors in evaluating evidence, selecting charges, and assessing public interest. Key points include evidential considerations, support for victims, and the dynamics of such behavior in intimate or family relationships.
Key points
- Identify controlling or coercive behavior even when other crimes are being investigated.
- Address overlapping conduct with stalking and harassment in charge selection.
- Charge relevant individual incidents alongside CCB when applicable.
- Consider victim support and safety throughout the case lifecycle.
- Prosecute cases within the context of domestic abuse and VAWG strategies.
Public-interest factors
- Seriousness of domestic abuse.
- Victim's willingness to support prosecution.
- Safeguarding children and vulnerable parties.
- Need to maintain confidence in the justice system.
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.