How Long Can Sexual Offence Investigations Take in the UK?

How Long Can Sexual Offence Investigations Take in the UK?

Many people ask, how long can sexual offence investigations take in the UK, and the reality is that they are often lengthy, sometimes lasting months or even years before the police decide whether to bring charges. This extended timeframe can cause enormous stress for those under investigation, as well as for complainants awaiting closure.

At Makwanas, our specialised sexual offence solicitors help clients navigate this drawn-out process, ensuring that their rights are respected and pressing the police for updates and timely decisions.

Book Your Free Discovery Call Today – Speak to a solicitor about your ongoing sexual offence investigation.

Factors That Affect the Length of Sexual Offence Investigations

Complexity of the Case

Multiple alleged incidents or complainants can prolong investigations.

Digital Evidence Backlogs

Police may need to examine phones, computers, and cloud accounts — a process that can take many months.

Forensic Testing Delays

DNA, toxicology, and other lab work are subject to long waiting lists.

Historic Allegations

Cases from years or decades ago require locating witnesses and records.

Multiple Jurisdictions

If alleged offences occurred in different police areas or abroad, information sharing can slow progress.

The Law for Investigation Timelines

• Pre-Charge Bail – Usually limited to 28 days, but can be extended in complex or serious cases like sexual offences.
• Release Under Investigation (RUI) – No formal time limit, meaning you can remain under suspicion for months or years without conditions.

The Emotional and Practical Impact of Delays

• Inability to plan for the future.
• Career disruption, especially in regulated professions.
• Strain on mental health and family relationships.
• Reputational damage.

How Makwanas Can Help

We can:

• Request regular progress updates from the police.
• Challenge unnecessary delays in evidence gathering.
• Submit early representations to the Crown Prosecution Service seeking NFA (no further action).
• Apply to vary or remove bail conditions if the case is dragging on.

FAQs: How Long Can Sexual Offence Investigations Take in the UK

1. Is there a maximum time police can investigate?

No — especially if you are released under investigation.

2. Can a solicitor speed up the process?

Yes — by pressing the police and CPS for decisions.

3. Do delays help my case?

Sometimes — long delays can undermine witness memory and weaken the prosecution case.

4. Can I travel while under investigation?

Yes, unless bail conditions restrict you.

5. What should I do while waiting?

Stay in close contact with your solicitor and avoid any behaviour that could affect the case.

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