DPP's Investigatory Powers
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 powers conferred by the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, particularly focusing on the issuance and criteria for disclosure notices. It details the roles of the Director of Public Prosecutions and other authorized personnel in compelling cooperation from individuals during investigations. The document also discusses the related offences, conditions for compliance, and legal professional privileges.
Key points
- DPP can issue a disclosure notice to compel cooperation in investigations.
- Disclosure notices may require answers to questions and the production of documents.
- Certain legal privileges may exempt individuals from complying with notices.
- Offences for non-compliance include failing to produce documents or providing false information.
- Search warrants may be sought if notices are ineffective or impracticable.
Public-interest factors
- Seriousness of the offence
- Public safety
- Deterrent effect of prosecution
- Impact on community confidence
- Public interest in enforcing the law
- Amount of harm caused
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.