Crown Prosecution Service - Project Open Gov

The public body responsible for prosecuting criminal cases in England and Wales.

Category: Justice and security Public bodies and agencies

Abbreviation: CPS

Also used as: CPS, prosecution service, public prosecutor

Official website: Visit the Crown Prosecution Service

Last reviewed: 3 August 2026

The Crown Prosecution Service prosecutes criminal cases in England and Wales. It decides whether charges should be brought in many cases, prepares cases for court and presents prosecutions. It may appear in summaries involving criminal justice, courts, victims, charging decisions, prosecution policy and legal accountability.

Related terms

Attorney General’s OfficeThe government legal office that supports the Attorney General and Solicitor General.Home OfficeThe UK Government department responsible for immigration, policing, national security and public safety.Ministry of JusticeThe UK Government department responsible for courts, prisons, probation and justice policy in England and Wales.National Crime AgencyThe UK law enforcement agency focused on serious and organised crime.