CPS Prosecution Guidance: Domestic 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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 outlines how prosecutors should handle cases of domestic abuse, emphasizing the high priority such cases hold in the criminal justice system. It provides definitions of domestic abuse, relevant terminology, applicable offences, and guidelines for supporting victims, gathering evidence, and ensuring prosecutor awareness of the complexities involved in domestic violence cases. It highlights the need for sensitive handling and collaborative approaches between prosecutors and law enforcement.
Key points
- Prosecutors must apply the Code for Crown Prosecutors in all domestic abuse cases.
- All domestic abuse cases are high priority for the CPS due to the risk to victims.
- The definition of domestic abuse encompasses various behaviours, not just physical violence.
- Victims of all genders can experience domestic abuse, and sensitivity to their circumstances is crucial.
- Children witnessing domestic abuse are also considered victims under the law.
Public-interest factors
- The seriousness of the offence
- Public confidence in the justice system
- Potential harm to the victim or others
- Vulnerability of the victim
- Impact on children involved
- Previous history of abuse
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.