Some concern has been expressed in the media today about the effect of the CPS's policy for prosecutors in respect of cases of encouraging or assisting suicide.
Assisting or encouraging suicide remains a criminal offence. The CPS guidelines do not, and could not, replace the law.
While no prosecutions have been brought since the guidelines were issued, each case is considered on its own facts and merits and any inference that the CPS has implemented a blanket policy of not prosecuting for this offence is wrong.
