Imagine this: you've been questioned by the police, and then released. Days or weeks later, you're told the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has decided to charge you. You're not sure what happens next — or what it means for your future. This situation is more common than you might think. For many people facing criminal allegations, what happens after CPS decide to charge is unfamiliar, confusing, and frightening. This guide will walk you through every stage of the process.