Criminal law
How to prepare a consultation as a complainant or victim
Who this helps
For organising the events, harm and notices you have received. You do not need to decide yourself which offence may be involved.
What to prepare
You can attend even if documents are missing. Flag any deadline or urgent notice at the time of booking.
Essential to explain your situation
- A short account of what happened, where and when, separating direct experience from what others told you.
- Any existing complaint and notices.
- Flag any current risk or imminent date.
Useful if already available
- Original records, invoices or communications lawfully in your possession.
- A list of possible witnesses and the facts they know.
Only if requested and relevant
- Sensitive reports and third-party details needed for the assessment.
Questions to take to the appointment
- Which facts need clarifying before deciding the next steps?
- What support and information channels are available?
- Which records should I preserve and how should I provide them?
Common preparation mistakes
- Editing messages or replacing originals with unlabelled summaries.
- Posting case materials on social media or asking others to adjust their account.
Final checklist
Tick items on this page or print this checklist. Selections are not sent or saved.
This guide helps you prepare an appointment. It does not determine the outcome of a matter or replace individual legal assessment. Do not send sensitive documents through public forms or links.