DG6 Desktop Guide
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 CPS's Director’s Guidance on Charging, providing a reference for investigators and prosecutors on the charging decision-making process. It details the necessary processes for submitting cases to the CPS, the types of offences that can be charged, and the responsibilities of both police and prosecutors. Additionally, it includes information on evidence submission requirements during various stages of the prosecution process.
Key points
- Investigators can seek early advice from prosecutors regarding charges.
- All cases must be categorized as red, green, or green priority for submission to the CPS.
- Police have specific charging responsibilities for certain offences.
- Prosecutors must review police-charged cases before the first court hearing.
- Material for submission to the CPS must adhere to specified requirements in Annex A and B.
- Prosecutor decisions can be appealed by police if dissatisfied.
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.