Reviewing Finalised Cases
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 the criteria and considerations for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) when deciding to review past cases. It identifies potential triggers for reviews, such as challenges to the credibility of expert witnesses or new legal precedents, and provides a decision tree to assist in determining the need for action. The guidance emphasizes the balance between rectifying injustices and maintaining finality in the criminal justice system.
Key points
- Guidance assists in determining case reviews.
- Triggers for review include expert witness credibility and new legal developments.
- Decision tree aids in identifying necessary actions.
- Decisions should be made at a senior level.
- Public confidence is a critical factor in decision-making.
- Documentation of decisions is essential.
Public-interest factors
- Ensuring justice for potentially wrongfully convicted individuals.
- Maintaining public confidence in the legal system.
- Addressing systemic failures in prosecution processes.
- Responding to changes in law that affect past convictions.
- Protecting the rights of defendants and victims.
- Transparency in reviewing past decisions.
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.