Out of court resolutions
In this section:
In some cases, crimes can be resolved without anyone having to go to court. These are known as ‘out of court resolutions’.
What you can expect from an out of court resolution
In general, there are two main types of out of court resolutions:
Community resolutions:
- These are an informal outcome in which the offender doesn’t get a criminal record.
- They include voluntary conditions for the offender to comply with.
- If the offender breaks these conditions, no action is taken against them.
Cautions:
- These are a formal outcome in which the offender gets a criminal record.
- They can include conditions for the offender to comply with.
- If the offender breaks these conditions, they can be sent to court.
Rehabilitative programmes for offenders
As part of an out of court resolution, an offender may be asked to take part in a programme. The aim is to help them understand the impact of their behaviour and reduce the likelihood of them reoffending. These programmes provide specialist help.
Programmes that may be used include:
Druglink/Cocoon: Substance Misuse Awareness
This is for those whose offending is linked to alcohol or drug use. It helps them understand the risks and dangers of drugs and alcohol.
RISE Mutual: VOICE (Victim Awareness)
This programme helps offenders understand the impact of their actions and to develop empathy for others.
RISE Mutual: Consider
This is aimed at individuals displaying inappropriate sexualised behaviour. It promotes values such as respect and personal boundaries.
Red Snapper Group: Hate Crime Intervention Programme
This is a 16-week programme for individuals who have committed a hate crime and been given a hate crime conditional caution. It encourages them to make changes that will reduce the risk of reoffending.
Benefits of an out of court resolution
Out of court resolutions are designed to:
- hold offenders to account for their actions and address their behaviour
- address any harm caused by the offence
- deliver quick and meaningful justice
- help reduce reoffending
Victim involvement
Where appropriate, officers will seek victims' views when considering an out of court resolution. The aim is to ensure outcomes are fair and reflect the impact on those affected.
Victim input may help shape the resolution including any conditions that are added to it. But while victims' views are important, final decisions are made by the police or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Find out more
While not suitable in every case, you can ask us to consider out of court options for you.
Find out more about out of court resolutions on the College of Policing website.