34A.1 Information For An Authorisation - Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Act 2009, Section 4

What this form is for

• • When you need court authorisation for covert visual surveillance.
• • When you plan to intercept communications under the 2009 Act.
• • When the surveillance will exceed 48 hours without a separate renewal.
• • When the target is a private individual rather than a public venue.
• • When the operation requires use of hidden recording devices.

Use this form or another form?

Deadline or filing window

The form must be filed and approved before any covert activity begins; any delay beyond the decision point may invalidate the operation.

Before you submit

• • Target name and address are correct.
• • Purpose of surveillance linked to a specific investigation.
• • All proposed methods are listed with equipment details.
• • Duration and start/end dates are clearly stated.
• • Risk assessment attached and signed.
• • Authorising officer’s signature and rank displayed.
• • Form number and revision date are visible.
• • Copy of the completed form retained for records.
• • Correct court registry address used.

How to file this form

1. 1Prepare a written justification and risk assessment.
2. 2Complete each section of Form 34A.1 on printed paper or PDF.
3. 3Sign the form as the authorised officer.
4. 4Attach supporting documents (risk assessment, operation plan).
5. 5Deliver the package to the District Court registry in person or by post.
6. 6Obtain a receipt or docket number from the court clerk.
7. 7File a copy with your internal oversight unit.

Known limitations

• • Form does not cover emergency authorisations (see Form 34A.3).
• • Only applicable to surveillance under the 2009 Act, not other statutes.
• • Electronic filing is limited to courts{ } that have enabled the portal feature.
• • The form does not include a field for data‑retention schedule; that must be added in the supporting documents.
• • No guidance is provided for cross‑border surveillance; separate permissions may be required.
• • The form assumes the applicant has already secured internal approval; it is not a substitute for that step.