Disclosure Manual: Chapter 17 - File and Information Management
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 chapter of the CPS Prosecution Guidance covers the management of files and information in the context of disclosure. It outlines the legal framework established by the CPIA concerning unused material disclosed to the defence, and the responsibilities of prosecutors regarding sensitive material. Key references include instructions for prosecution advocates and necessary precautions for handling sensitive information. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to established legal protocols surrounding the confidentiality of disclosed materials.
Key points
- Unused material disclosed to the defence must be kept confidential and used only in criminal proceedings for which it was disclosed.
- The court's permission is needed for any other use of disclosed material.
- Prosecutors must ensure the advocate is properly instructed on all disclosure issues.
- Sensitive material requires specific handling instructions and may require editing before disclosure.
- Disclosure Management Documents guide the handling of electronic material.
Public-interest factors
- Public safety concerns related to disclosure of sensitive material.
- Potential impact on the integrity of the judicial process.
- Need to balance fair trial rights of the accused against the public interest.
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.