Which test evaluates whether there is enough evidence to prosecute?

• A. Evidential Test
• B. Prosecution Readiness Test
• C. Reasonable Prospects Test
• D. Admissibility Test

Answer: (A)

In deciding whether to charge, prosecutors first apply the evidential test. This asks whether there is enough evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction, meaning the evidence is strong enough that a reasonable jury or judge could convict beyond reasonable doubt. If this threshold isn’t met, the case shouldn’t proceed to prosecution, even if the offense is serious. Only if the evidential test is passed does the process move on to considering whether it’s in the public interest to prosecute. The other options don’t fit because they focus on different aspects: admissibility checks whether evidence can be used in court; the phrase “reasonable prospects” is part of the evidential assessment but isn’t the formal label for the decision step, and the Prosecution Readiness concept isn’t a standard term in this context.