The Criminal Justice System of United Kingdom

The police forces across England and Wales responsible for the investigation of crime, collection of evidence and the arrest or detention of suspected offenders. The police  send the files to the CPS to decide whether to prosecute.

HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is responsible for the administration of criminal, civil and family courts and tribunals in England and Wales.

Magistrates’ courts deal with the less serious criminal offences, such as most motoring offences, minor criminal damage or being drunk and disorderly. Youth courts are special magistrates’ courts which deal with all but the most serious charges against people aged between 10 (the age of criminal responsibility) and 17.

The Crown Court deals with the most serious offences, for example murder and rape, which are triable by judge and jury.

The Attorney General fulfils the role of chief legal adviser to the government and superintends the Crown Prosecution Service and the Serious Fraud Office.

The Solicitor General supports the Attorney across the range of his responsibilities.

The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has responsibility for different parts of the justice system – the courts, prisons, probation services and attendance centres.

The Home Office is the lead government department for immigration and passports, drugs policy, crime, fire, counter-terrorism and police.

Her Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service carries out sentences given by the courts, in custody and the community, and rehabilitates people in through education and employment.

Her Majesty’s Crown Prosecution Service Inspectorate (HMCPSI) inspects the work carried out by the CPS and other prosecuting agencies.