Describe the Organisation of the Criminal Justice System in England and Wales

The Criminal Justice System in England and Wales

The Police enforce laws, maintain order, and protect citizens. There are 43 separate police forces in England and Wales.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decides if a case should go to court, collects and presents evidence, and prosecutes criminals.
The Courts administer justice. There are various types of courts including Magistrates’ Courts, Crown Court, Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court.

The Police are responsible for detecting crime, arresting suspects, and gathering evidence for the prosecution.
The CPS reviews police evidence, decides whether to charge the suspect, and conducts the prosecution at court.
Judges preside over court proceedings, interpret and apply law, and ensure a fair trial. They are responsible for sentencing convicted offenders.
Magistrates make up the majority of the judiciary, dealing with less serious criminal matters, conducting trials and providing sentencing for minor offences.
Juries are made up of members of the public and are responsible for determining guilt in Crown Court trials.
Solicitors provide advice and representation for clients, and may act as advocates in lower courts.
Barristers act as specialist legal advisors, often representing individuals and organisations in court.

After an offence is reported, it is the Police’s task to investigate. If they decide there’s enough evidence, the case is passed to the CPS.
The CPS reviews the evidence and decides whether to charge the suspect with a crime.
Once a case is charged, it goes to court. The type of court it goes to will depend on the seriousness of the offence.
Solicitors and Barristers who represent the defendant and the prosecution present the case before the Judge.
In Crown Court, the jury participates in the case, deciding the guilt of the defendant based on the evidence presented.