The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) plays a crucial role in... Show more
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14 Dec 2025
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Criminology Unit 3 AC2.1 Explained
Princess Jayeola
@princessjayeola_iwzq
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The Crown Prosecution Service
Ever wondered who decides whether criminals actually get taken to court? That's where the Crown Prosecution Service comes in. Established in 1986, the CPS was created to stop police from making biased prosecution decisions and to prevent conflicts of interest.
Before 1986, police could charge and prosecute suspects even with minimal evidence, which wasn't exactly fair. The CPS changed this by taking over the charging role for all offences, ensuring a more balanced approach to justice.
The CPS consists of solicitors and support staff who advise police on investigations, assess evidence, and decide what charges to bring. Under the Criminal Justice Act 2003, they issue written charges and court notices to defendants.
Quick Tip: Think of the CPS as the bridge between police investigations and court proceedings - they're the ones who decide if there's actually a case worth pursuing.
The Full Code Test
The Full Code Test is the CPS's main tool for ensuring fairness and consistency in prosecutions. It's like a quality control system that every case must pass before reaching court.
This test has two parts: the evidential test and the public interest test. Both must be satisfied for a prosecution to proceed. The CPS uses this test when investigations are complete or when they're confident that additional evidence won't significantly change the outcome.
The Full Code Test ensures prosecutors can make fully informed decisions about whether pursuing a case serves justice. It's designed to prevent weak cases from clogging up the courts whilst ensuring genuine criminals face prosecution.
Remember: Both parts of the Full Code Test must pass - having strong evidence isn't enough if prosecution isn't in the public interest.
The Evidential Test
The evidential test asks one key question: is there a realistic prospect of conviction? This means would a jury, magistrates, or judge be more likely than not to find the defendant guilty?
Prosecutors must consider potential defence arguments and assess whether evidence might be rejected as inadmissible. They also evaluate the reliability and credibility of evidence - basically, is it trustworthy and believable?
The test is objective, meaning it's based on facts rather than personal opinions. Evidence must be strong enough that reasonable people would believe it's true when considering all circumstances.
Case Study: Sally Anne Bowman, an 18-year-old model, was murdered in Croydon in 2005. DNA evidence from the crime scene didn't initially match anyone, but when Mark Dixie was arrested for another crime in 2006, his DNA matched the samples. This credible, reliable evidence led to his conviction for rape and murder.
Key Point: The evidential test isn't just about having evidence - it's about having evidence that will actually convince a court.
The Public Interest Test
Even with rock-solid evidence, the CPS must ask: should we actually prosecute this case? The public interest test considers whether prosecution serves society's best interests.
This test recognises that not every provable crime needs to go to court. Factors might include the seriousness of the offence, the impact on victims and community, and whether prosecution would be proportionate to the crime.
The public interest test ensures court resources are used effectively whilst balancing justice for victims against other societal considerations. It's the final hurdle that determines whether a case proceeds to trial.
Think About It: Sometimes the public interest might favour alternative approaches like cautions or community resolutions rather than full prosecution.
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Stefan S
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Criminology Unit 3 AC2.1 Explained
Princess Jayeola
@princessjayeola_iwzq
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) plays a crucial role in deciding whether criminal cases go to court in England and Wales. Understanding how the CPS operates and what tests they use is essential for grasping how our justice system ensures... Show more
The Crown Prosecution Service
Ever wondered who decides whether criminals actually get taken to court? That's where the Crown Prosecution Service comes in. Established in 1986, the CPS was created to stop police from making biased prosecution decisions and to prevent conflicts of interest.
Before 1986, police could charge and prosecute suspects even with minimal evidence, which wasn't exactly fair. The CPS changed this by taking over the charging role for all offences, ensuring a more balanced approach to justice.
The CPS consists of solicitors and support staff who advise police on investigations, assess evidence, and decide what charges to bring. Under the Criminal Justice Act 2003, they issue written charges and court notices to defendants.
Quick Tip: Think of the CPS as the bridge between police investigations and court proceedings - they're the ones who decide if there's actually a case worth pursuing.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Full Code Test
The Full Code Test is the CPS's main tool for ensuring fairness and consistency in prosecutions. It's like a quality control system that every case must pass before reaching court.
This test has two parts: the evidential test and the public interest test. Both must be satisfied for a prosecution to proceed. The CPS uses this test when investigations are complete or when they're confident that additional evidence won't significantly change the outcome.
The Full Code Test ensures prosecutors can make fully informed decisions about whether pursuing a case serves justice. It's designed to prevent weak cases from clogging up the courts whilst ensuring genuine criminals face prosecution.
Remember: Both parts of the Full Code Test must pass - having strong evidence isn't enough if prosecution isn't in the public interest.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Evidential Test
The evidential test asks one key question: is there a realistic prospect of conviction? This means would a jury, magistrates, or judge be more likely than not to find the defendant guilty?
Prosecutors must consider potential defence arguments and assess whether evidence might be rejected as inadmissible. They also evaluate the reliability and credibility of evidence - basically, is it trustworthy and believable?
The test is objective, meaning it's based on facts rather than personal opinions. Evidence must be strong enough that reasonable people would believe it's true when considering all circumstances.
Case Study: Sally Anne Bowman, an 18-year-old model, was murdered in Croydon in 2005. DNA evidence from the crime scene didn't initially match anyone, but when Mark Dixie was arrested for another crime in 2006, his DNA matched the samples. This credible, reliable evidence led to his conviction for rape and murder.
Key Point: The evidential test isn't just about having evidence - it's about having evidence that will actually convince a court.
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By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Public Interest Test
Even with rock-solid evidence, the CPS must ask: should we actually prosecute this case? The public interest test considers whether prosecution serves society's best interests.
This test recognises that not every provable crime needs to go to court. Factors might include the seriousness of the offence, the impact on victims and community, and whether prosecution would be proportionate to the crime.
The public interest test ensures court resources are used effectively whilst balancing justice for victims against other societal considerations. It's the final hurdle that determines whether a case proceeds to trial.
Think About It: Sometimes the public interest might favour alternative approaches like cautions or community resolutions rather than full prosecution.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Criminology
Most popular content in Criminology
Most popular content
English - inspector calls quotes and analysis
Quotes from every main character
English Literature10
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user