"A file has been sent to the DPP"

Victor

We hear this and similar comments in the media. Does this mean that a prosecution is likely / being recommended by the Garda or can it also mean that the Garda might send a "we don't really have enough evidence" / "we think a prosecution might not be in the public interest" report?

Our man in Havana

All it means is that a file has been sent to the DPP for directions. Those directions could be to charge, to discontinue or to caution a person.

I think the media use it as a sly way to imply that a prosecution is likely.

Mr Jinx

Victor wrote: »

We hear this and similar comments in the media. Does this mean that a prosecution is likely / being recommended by the Garda or can it also mean that the Garda might send a "we don't really have enough evidence" / "we think a prosecution might not be in the public interest" report?

To be honest it can means either, in alot of cases most serious charges must get directions from DPP even if the suspected offender has confessed to all.

murrayp4

I always thought it meant that the Gardaí were unsure as to whether a person should be charged with an offence and were seeking the opinion of a solicitor (D.P.P.)
Yes/No?

Our man in Havana

Not entirely. Some offences always need the DPP's directions e.g. rape, murder, serious assault.

Victor

Bond-007 wrote: »

I think the media use it as a sly way to imply that a prosecution is likely.

Surely you mean the garda press office?

murrayp4

But what about when you hear "a man has been released without charge and a file has been sent to the DPP" does that mean they're seeking legal opinion as to whether the guy should/could be charged with anything?
That's usually when you hear the phrase in the news, i.e. when someone is released without charge.

Our man in Havana

That is exactly it. They are not sure what if anything to charge them with.