A report by HM Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate, based on 130 case files, found that the CPS is making strides in ensuring that prosecutors are consistent on out-of-court disposals such as youth cautions.
CPS lawyers making charges were also found to be getting better at recording details of why they made their decision, which meant prosecutors were subsequently able to make correct legal representations in youth court.
The report, a follow-up of a previous inspection in 2011, found that the CPS had made “significant progress” on three of six priority recommendations.
However, it did raise a number of concerns.
Inspectors found that in some cases where a correct decision to charge had been taken by the police and the case was accepted for prosecution by the CPS, either the police or youth offending service subsequently administered a pre-court disposal.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
