Victims & Witnesses
Being involved in the criminal justice system can be stressful for many victims and witnesses.
This section of our website is dedicated to victims and witnesses and tries to answer the question that people ask us most often.
Criminal Justice System
This section of our website provides a brief guide to the Criminal Justice System and explains what happens when: a crime is reported; a file goes to the DPP; the DPP decides to prosecute or not to prosecute; and a case goes to court
Publications
- Information for the Public
Download booklets (also available in ten foreign languages) on the role of DPP, going to court as a witness, how we make prosecutions decisions, making a victim impact statement, and more. - Guidelines for Practitioners
Find essential information for prosecutors, legal professionals and Gardaí. - Corporate Publications
See our Annual Reports, Strategy Statements, Quality Service Charter, Protected Disclosure Reports, and more. - Conference Papers
Read presentations and papers from conferences - External Publications
Find relevant information published by other organisations.
Highlighted Content
How we make prosecution decisions
The decision whether or not to prosecute is very important.
If we decide not to prosecute, it can cause great stress and upset to victims and their families. On the other hand, if someone is prosecuted and later found not guilty, it can damage their reputation and they can suffer a lot of harm. So, we must consider very carefully whether or not to prosecute.
About Us
About Us
The office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) was established by law under the Prosecution of Offences Act, 1974. The Director, Catherine Pierse, is independent in the performance of her functions.