OOCR Notices for Legal Advisors (2-page doc) v2

We have been working closely with a number of bodies in relation to the use of Out of Court Resolutions (OOCRs).

The general consensus from both the defence community and policing bodies is that OOCRs could be used more frequently in suitable cases.

Through our engagement with the Metropolitan Police and other relevant bodies, there appears to be a genuine willingness to resolve more matters in this way, rather than unnecessarily charging individuals and requiring them to attend court where an appropriate alternative disposal may be available.

As part of these discussions, we have raised some of the practical concerns experienced by defence practitioners. In particular, we have highlighted the difficulties caused by officers not providing full disclosure at the outset and, importantly, not always making clear what disposal options may be available in a particular case. Without this information, it can be difficult for practitioners to properly advise their clients or make meaningful representations as to an appropriate disposal.

The NPCC have asked us to circulate the attached document to our wider membership, which provides further information in relation to the use of Out of Court Disposals.

We would encourage members to have a read and to continue raising appropriate disposals with officers where they consider that a matter could properly be resolved without charge.

We will also continue to engage with the relevant bodies on this issue and press for improvements in how OOCRs are considered and applied in practice.

We have a further meeting towards the end of January 2027 and would welcome any feedback as to whether more matters are being dealt with via way of OOCR.