When you report a crime, the police will examine the available evidence and make an assessment as to whether it is possible to proceed to the next stage of the criminal justice system. If the case can be progressed, it is then referred to the Crown Prosecution Service, who will also examine what has been investigated and decide if the case can be brought before the court.
If you are unhappy with the decision that has been reached regarding your case, you have a right to request a review, either from the police or the CPS.
Requesting a review from the police
You can request a review if the police have:
- identified and interviewed under caution a suspect about the offence, and
- decided not to take the suspect to court, or not to refer the case to the CPS for a charging decision
You can find more information on how to apply for a review and possible outcomes on the Avon and Somerset Police website.
Requesting a review from the CPS
To get a prompt review, you will need to submit your request within 10 working days of the decision being communicated.
You can request a review by visiting the CPS website, by calling them on 0117 930 2929 or by emailing the Victim Liaison Service
Where the law permits, the CPS will consider requests for review for up to three months from the date the decision is communicated. After three months, requests for review will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances.
What will happen
When your request is received, your eligibility will be checked. Then, if eligible, the case will be checked by a prosecutor who has not been involved in the case.
You will then be provided with a clear, detailed explanation of the decision
The Victims’ Right to Review specifically relates to decisions not to prosecute. It does not cover crime-recording decisions or decisions not to continue with enquiries.
Cases cannot be reviewed if:
- no suspect has been identified and interviewed
- some of the charges are brought against some of the subjects
- the suspect is charged with a different crime to the one that was recorded
- an Out of Court Disposal has been given, like a Conditional Caution or Community Resolution
- the victim retracts their complaint or refuses to cooperate with the investigation
Sometimes an investigation into an offence is ongoing. Even though police have made a decision on whether or not to charge someone, a VRR consideration may be deferred until the investigation is complete.
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