Prosecution Guidance: Live Links in Criminal Courts
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 circumstances and procedures under which witnesses, defendants, and advocates may participate in court proceedings via live link, as permitted by the Criminal Justice Act 2003. It addresses issues such as making applications for live link directions, assessing the interests of justice, and handling situations involving participants outside the jurisdiction. Key considerations include the effectiveness of participation, the rights of witnesses, and procedural requirements for live links in various types of hearings.
Key points
- Witnesses can give evidence via live links as a special measure.
- Live links can be applied in a variety of criminal proceedings.
- Applications for live link directions must consider the interests of justice.
- The court must provide clear reasons if an application for a live link is refused.
- Factors impacting the decision include witness mobility and the importance of their testimony.
- Prosecutors must ensure adequate facilities for live links are available.
Public-interest factors
- Ensuring fair trial rights are upheld.
- Facilitating witness participation without physical presence.
- Maintaining the integrity of court proceedings.
- Balancing efficiency of proceedings versus witness needs.
- Protecting vulnerable witnesses and defendants.
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.