If the police have informed you that your case is being marked as "NFA" or No Further Action, it's understandable to have questions about what that means for your future.
What does NFA actually mean? Does it clear your name? Could the case be reopened in the future?
At Monan Gozzett, we regularly advise individuals who have been falsely accused of criminal offences, and we understand how important it is to have clear, professional guidance during this uncertain time.
This article explains what an NFA decision involves, why it might be made, and how it could affect your record, your career, and your peace of mind.
What Does No Further Action Mean?
In legal terms, "No Further Action" (NFA) means the police have decided not to proceed with a prosecution after an investigation.
It signifies a pause or conclusion in the investigative process rather than a legal judgement on guilt or innocence.
This outcome often follows an arrest or voluntary interview and reflects the authorities’ decision not to pursue charges based on the information currently available.
It is not a legal status you apply for or challenge directly—it is simply the conclusion the police reach when they determine that the case, as it stands, cannot or should not proceed.
Why Do Police Decide To Conclude A Case With No Further Action?
Police may decide to conclude a case with No Further Action (NFA) when, after a thorough review, they determine there is no realistic prospect of securing a conviction or that continuing the investigation is not justified.
Several practical and evidential factors can influence this decision:
- There is insufficient evidence, or the evidence available does not meet the evidential threshold for the prosecution to charge the individual or
- In some cases, the police or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) may decide that pursuing the case is not in the public interest
However, it is crucial to understand that this does not necessarily mean the case is permanently closed as the complainant may request the matter be reviewed again under the Victim’s Right to Review (VRR), which allows victims of crime to request a review of a police or Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decision not to prosecute.
Does NFA Mean I’m Found Not Guilty?
Being issued an NFA is not the same as being found "not guilty" in a court of law.
It is not a judicial verdict but an operational decision made by the police or CPS.
This distinction matters, particularly when it comes to background checks or future police scrutiny.
The stigma of the initial arrest or investigation may still linger, which is why it’s essential to take appropriate steps to protect your legal and reputational interests (see below for more on how Monan Gozzett can help with this).
Can Police Reverse a No Further Action?
The short answer to this is 'Yes'!
Where the police have concluded an investigation with No Further Action, this does not prohibit them from restarting it later should new evidence come to light.
Thus, the police or the CPS can reconsider an NFA decision and restart the investigation if:
- New evidence comes to light that allegedly involves you
- They reviewed the old evidence, leading to new connections that implicate you
- If there were procedural errors in the initial investigation, which could involve the mishandling of evidence
- Significant public interest or pressure
- CPS may advise the police to reconsider the case based on a new interpretation of the law.
Does An NFA Go On A Criminal Record?
While an NFA does not result in a criminal conviction or a caution, the fact that you were investigated—and possibly arrested—can still be recorded on the Police National Computer (PNC).
This information can remain on file even if no charges were ever brought.It’s essential to understand the implications of this, particularly for individuals in professions that require enhanced background checks or hold positions of trust.
Does An NFA Show Up On A DBS Check?
An NFA outcome will not appear on a Basic DBS check. However, in Standard or Enhanced DBS checks—often required for roles involving work with children, vulnerable adults, or positions of public responsibility—the police have discretion to disclose relevant non-conviction information.
This means that even though you weren’t charged, the details of the allegation and investigation could still be revealed under certain circumstances, potentially impacting job prospects or professional accreditation.
If you're concerned about this, our specialist lawyers can advise you on challenging or removing information from your record.
What Should You Do After An NFA Decision?
It is essential to remember that NFA does not mean the end of the road, so you can plan your next step.
Waiting to hear from the police again about an investigation can be very traumatic, even when you know that you are entirely innocent.
Often, we feel better when we know we are taking some positive action.
So, what can you do?
The mere fact that you were arrested on suspicion of a criminal offence will have left a mark on your record.
You can read more about this and how, with help from our lawyers' expertise in record deletion, you can take positive action to delete this arrest from your record.
If you need help with a criminal investigation, please do not hesitate to contact our expert criminal lawyers.
Understanding the implications of an NFA decision and knowing your options can help you better navigate the aftermath of a police investigation.
Contact our expert No Further Action lawyers today for more detailed guidance and legal assistance.
Please note that we are unable to offer free legal advice. Our client services team are here to take your case details and explain any costs involved
If you would like to speak to our expert legal team about this, or any related subject then please contact our team by phone on 0207 936 6329, Email or by completing our Quick Contact Form below.
Please note that we are unable to offer free legal advice. Our client services team are here to take your case details and explain any costs involved