A training-oriented high-level checklist for assembling a CPS-ready court file. Use alongside your force file-build policy and the College of Policing APP — this is not a substitute for either.

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Case summary

Brief, neutral case summary completed (offence, who, when, where, outcome sought).Plain English. No assumptions or opinions.
Suspect/defendant details verified (name, date of birth, address, custody record).Cross-check spelling against PNC / custody record.
Victim/complainant details and contact preferences recorded.Note any vulnerabilities and special measures needed.

Charging decision

Charging code or CPS authorisation reference attached.If charged by police, record the rank and authority basis.
Threshold/full code test considered and noted.Reference the published Code for Crown Prosecutors.
Bail / pre-charge bail conditions recorded if applicable.Check expiry dates and conditions for accuracy.

Key statements

All MG11s checked for completeness (heading, declaration, signature, page numbering).See the Statement Writing Checklist tool.
ABE interviews recorded and reference numbers added to schedule.Include transcripts where required by court direction.
Officer statements cover continuity, identification, and time-critical observations.Avoid duplicating hearsay across multiple officers.

Continuity and exhibits

MG12 / exhibit schedule complete with labels, descriptions, and producing officers.Cross-reference to the relevant statements.
CCTV continuity statements where seized digital evidence is exhibited.Note hash values or chain of custody references.
Forensic submissions and results referenced where relied upon.Include result reports as separate exhibits.

Disclosure (CPIA)

Disclosure officer assigned and MG6 series completed.Schedule of non-sensitive material (MG6C) and sensitive material (MG6D).
Reasonable lines of enquiry pursued — including those that point away from the suspect.Document why a line was or was not pursued.
Disclosure schedule reviewed by a supervisor and CPS where required.Apply CPIA Code of Practice.

Schedule of sensitive material

Sensitive material (informants, tactics, vulnerable witness details) listed separately on MG6D.Discuss with disclosure manager before listing.
Public Interest Immunity considerations identified where relevant.PII applications are CPS-led; do not redact without supervision input.

Pre-charge engagement notes

Any defence representations during investigation recorded.Note dates, who, and substance — not editorialised.
Pre-charge engagement opportunities considered and outcomes logged.AG guidelines on pre-charge engagement followed.

Defence first issues / case management

Anticipated defence issues (identification, consent, alibi, mental health) noted.Prepare evidence to address each.
Special measures applications drafted for vulnerable witnesses.Use the appropriate application form.
Case management forms completed for trial readiness hearing.Check the court's standard directions.

High-level training material. Does not include operational tactics. Follow your force's case-file policy, CPIA Code of Practice, and the College of Policing APP on Investigation.

BlueLineHub is independent and unofficial. This tool is for general guidance only — not legal advice, medical advice, or operational command advice. Verify any calculation, recommendation, or checklist against your force policy, College of Policing APP, Police Regulations, PFEW guidance, and your Federation representative.

Court File Readiness Checklist