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.
Press Release
27 March 2025
Commemorating 50 Years Since the Appointment of the First DPP
This year, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is commemorating 50 years since the appointment of the first DPP in 1975. At an event in Iveagh House on Thursday 27 March 2025 to mark this occasion – and to launch a specially commissioned book ‘A History of the Office of the DPP 1975-2025’ – the Director, Catherine Pierse delivered a speech reflecting on fifty years of the prosecution service.
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.
Latest Vacancies
Latest Vacancies
The Director of Public Prosecutions wishes to appoint Counsel to prosecute in Cork City & Cork County.