CPS Complex Casework Unit: How Serious Criminal Cases Are Prosecuted

What Is the CPS Complex Casework Unit?

The Complex Casework Unit is a specialist department within the Crown Prosecution Service responsible for prosecuting particularly challenging criminal cases. 

These cases may involve: 

• Significant evidential complexity 
• Multiple defendants 
• Extensive digital or financial evidence 
• Serious or sensitive allegations 

Prosecutors working on these cases are experienced in managing complex evidence and making careful charging decisions.

The CPS is independent of the police. Its role is not to decide whether someone is guilty, but to decide whether there is enough evidence to prosecute and whether prosecution is in the public interest.

Further information about CPS decision-making can be found in the Code for Crown Prosecutors published by the Crown Prosecution Service.

What Types of Cases Are Handled by the Complex Casework Unit?

Some cases are treated as complex because of the nature of the allegation, the number of witnesses, the sensitivity of the evidence, or the legal issues involved.

Serious Sexual Offences

Some cases involving serious sexual allegations may be referred to specialist CPS units where the evidence is complex or involves multiple complainants. 

These cases may involve: 

• Extensive digital evidence 
• Historic allegations 
• Multiple witnesses 
• Complex evidential issues 

Large-Scale Fraud and Financial Crime

Complex fraud and financial crime investigations often involve large volumes of documents, banking material and digital records.

Cases may include: 

• Corporate fraud 
• Investment fraud 
• Conspiracy to defraud 
• Money laundering 

These matters may require detailed analysis of transactions, company records, communications and expert evidence.

Complex Violent Offences

Serious violent offences or organised crime allegations may also require specialist prosecution handling.

Examples may include: 

• Organised criminal violence 
• Conspiracy offences 
• Complex homicide investigations 

These cases often involve detailed forensic evidence, surveillance material, phone evidence and lengthy case preparation.

How the CPS Decides Whether to Prosecute Serious Offences

Before any criminal charge is authorised, the CPS must apply the Full Code Test set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors. 

This test has two stages. 

The Evidential Stage

The prosecutor must decide whether there is enough evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction.

This means considering whether an objective, impartial and reasonable court is more likely than not to convict on the evidence available.

The Public Interest Stage

If the evidential stage is met, prosecutors must then consider whether a prosecution is required in the public interest.

Factors considered may include: 

• The seriousness of the alleged offence 
• The circumstances of the suspect 
• The impact on victims or the wider public 

Detailed guidance on this process is available on the CPS website.

What Specialist Prosecutors Do in Complex Criminal Cases

Specialist prosecutors play an important role in serious and complex criminal cases.

Their responsibilities may include: 

• Reviewing evidence gathered by investigators 
• Advising police during investigations 
• Determining whether criminal charges should be authorised 
• Preparing cases for court proceedings 
• Presenting cases in serious criminal trials 

These prosecutors often work closely with investigators, forensic specialists, and other legal professionals. 

Because these cases can involve substantial evidence and detailed legal issues, investigations and prosecutions may take time to progress.

What Defendants Should Expect in a Complex CPS Investigation

Investigations involving the Complex Casework Unit can be lengthy and detailed. 

Individuals under investigation may face: 

• Extensive evidence gathering 
• Digital forensic analysis 
• Multiple witness statements 
• Lengthy case preparation 

The evidence may include phone downloads, banking records, emails, CCTV, surveillance, expert reports and witness accounts.

Given the seriousness of these cases, early legal advice is important. A defence solicitor can review the evidence, advise on the investigation and help prepare a clear response.

Specialist defence solicitors can review evidence, advise on legal strategy, and represent clients throughout the investigation and court process. 

Why Experienced Criminal Defence Solicitors Are Essential

Cases involving complex CPS casework often raise serious legal, evidential and procedural issues.

An experienced criminal defence solicitor can: 

• Analyse complex evidence 
• Challenge weaknesses in the prosecution case 
• Advise on legal strategy 
• Represent clients during police investigations and court proceedings 

Early advice can help ensure that the defence position is understood and that the evidence is properly tested.

If you are under investigation or facing allegations connected with a serious criminal offence, it is important to seek legal representation from a solicitor experienced in complex criminal defence. 

Speak With an Experienced Criminal Defence Solicitor

Serious criminal investigations handled by the CPS Complex Casework Unit can have life-changing consequences. 

If you are under investigation or facing charges in a complex case, legal advice should be sought as early as possible.

Our criminal defence solicitors regularly represent clients facing complex and serious allegations and can provide clear, strategic legal advice throughout every stage of the investigation and court process. 

Contact our team to discuss your situation confidentially.