A short guide to the criminal justice system
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Police forces
Police forces are responsible for the prevention, detection and investigation of crime. As such, they are also the first point of contact for anyone wishing to report a crime.
During a criminal investigation, police officers have various common law and statutory powers designed to help them gather evidence, interview people and detain suspects. They also have the power to make charging decisions in certain, lower-level cases. Police forces have an obligation to conduct effective investigations and to treat victims and witnesses in accordance with their rights.
Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs)
Most police forces in England and Wales are overseen by an elected PCC. PCCs are also responsible for commissioning the majority of local support services for victims of crime in conjunction with their local police forces.
PCCs set their policing agenda for their area through a five-year ‘police and crime plan’ and will often outline their approach to...
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