Coronavirus: Interim CPS Case Review Guidance – Application of the Public Interest Covid-19 crisis response
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 is intended for prosecutors during the Coronavirus pandemic, focusing on the application of public interest in prosecution decisions. It covers considerations for ongoing cases, the impact of COVID-19 on the Criminal Justice System, and factors determining whether prosecution is a proportionate response under the pandemic conditions. Key aspects include reviewing cases proactively and assessing the public interest in light of significant delays and difficulties affecting the legal process.
Key points
- Guidance addresses prosecution decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Impact of social distancing on case progression is significant.
- Prosecutors must consider public interest when deciding on charges.
- Impact of delays on victims and defendants is critical.
- Guidance clarifies prosecutors' duties in light of changing circumstances.
- Assessing prosecution as a proportionate response is essential.
Public-interest factors
- Seriousness of the offence
- Impact on victims and witnesses
- Age and maturity of the offender
- Time spent on remand
- Potential for alternative disposals
- Likelihood of conviction
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.