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Victims & Witnesses: The Code of Practice for the Victims of Crime (Victims' Code) English/Cymraeg

Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.

All CPS 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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 rights and support available for victims of crime in England and Wales through the Victims' Code. It emphasizes the importance of engaging with victims and ensuring their voices are heard during the prosecution process. The document provides legal professionals with a framework to ensure compliance with the statutory obligations towards victims.

Key points

  • Victims are entitled to information and support throughout the criminal justice process.
  • The guidance assists legal professionals in understanding their responsibilities towards victims.
  • Victims can provide feedback and report issues related to their treatment in the system.

Public-interest factors

  • Ensuring victims' rights are upheld
  • Promoting transparency in the prosecution process
  • Enhancing public trust in the criminal justice system
Victims' Code
Read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk
Last reviewed: 1 January 2023 · Next review due: 1 July 2023

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.