Attendance prosecution is a legal intervention available where a parent has failed to ensure their child attends school regularly, as required under the Education Act 1996.
Prosecution forms part of Sutton’s Attendance Graduated Response and is considered where attendance concerns persist despite appropriate support, intervention and opportunities for engagement. Before legal proceedings are initiated, the Local Authority will consider all available evidence and whether alternative interventions may be more appropriate.
Attendance prosecution aims to reinforce the importance of regular school attendance and ensure that children receive their entitlement to education.
Further Guidance
For Schools
Information for schools on attendance prosecution, including referral criteria, evidence requirements, legal processes and the school’s role in supporting legal intervention.
→ Attendance Prosecution: Guidance for Schools
For Parents
Information for parents about attendance prosecution, court proceedings, possible outcomes and support available to improve school attendance.
→ Attendance Prosecution: Information for Parents