Challenging Prosecutorial Discretion

This book offers the first comprehensive evaluation of the three key mechanisms through which victims can challenge decisions not to prosecute: the Crown Prosecution Service Victims’ Right to Review (VRR), judicial review and private prosecutions. Assessing each route against criteria of accessibility, participation, accountability and outcomes, it reveals significant limitations and the absence of a coherent framework for victim challenge.

Set within the wider context of defendants’ rights and the public interest, the book provides a detailed legal analysis of the VRR, judicial review and private prosecutions. It highlights VRR’s value as a simple and cost-free remedy while acknowledging its shortcomings and the need for meaningful reform.