Complex Casework Units

Report shows that CPS Complex Casework Units are both effective and efficient

HM Crown Prosecution Inspectorate (HMCPSI) has today published a report on the effectiveness and efficiency of Complex Casework Units (CCUs) in Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) Areas.

The report has found that CCUs, which deal with the most complex cases within CPS Areas, are both effective and efficient in managing their casework. While there are some areas where CCUs can improve, they should not detract from the overall high standard of work found in this inspection.

The inspection also found that CCUs are staffed by a committed and confident workforce who demonstrate a high level of professionalism and skill in their work. Their internal case management processes are generally effective and the cases they prosecute exhibit a clear case strategy from the beginning, providing vital investigative advice to investigators.

However, Inspectors found that CCUs need to improve the recording of the work they undertake so there is an accurate audit trail of decision making, actions, and oversight of cases. The cases they deal with are complicated and often contain vast quantities of material that can last for years so it is important this issue is addressed.

In the future, as crime trends involving serious and organised crime change, the CPS will also need to review how they continue to resource CCUs.

 

Commenting on the findings, HM Chief Inspector Kevin McGinty said:

“CCUs are responsible for some of the most serious and complicated cases the CPS prosecutes, so the high standards found in this inspection are good news for the CPS.

“To ensure they maintain these high standards, the CPS will need to carefully consider how to resource small and medium sized CCUs in light of emerging crime trends involving serious and organised crime.”

 

Notes to editors:

  1. A copy of the report is attached. Complex Casework Units inspection report (658 kB)
  2. HMCPSI inspects prosecution services, providing evidence to make the prosecution process better and more accountable. We have a statutory duty to inspect the work of the CPS.
  3. The CPS operates across England and Wales, with 14 regional Areas prosecuting cases locally.
  4. Within each of the Areas there is a CCU responsible for the prosecution of complex cases. The only exception to this is London where London North and London South combine to have one joint CCU which is managed by London South.
  5. This is the first time HMCPSI have undertaken an inspection on CCUs.