Evidence led domestic abuse prosecutions

Published on: 23 January 2020

Summary

If the victim of domestic abuse decides not to support a prosecution, police and prosecutors should consider whether it is possible to bring a prosecution without that support. This is called an evidence led prosecution.

Her Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) and HMICFRS conducted an inspection to find out:

  • whether the guidance and policy on evidence led prosecutions is widely understood by both police officers and prosecutors; and
  • whether they seek to build viable evidence led prosecutions where appropriate.

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Evidence led domestic abuse prosecutions (PDF document)

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Building successful domestic abuse prosecutions without the victim’s support is possible but challenging for police and prosecutors

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