(1) Proceedings for an offence are started -
(a) when a justice of the peace issues a summons or warrant under section 1 of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980 (c. 43) in respect of the offence;
(aa) when a relevant prosecutor issues a written charge and requisition or single justice procedure notice in respect of the offence;
(b) when a person is charged with the offence after being taken into custody without a warrant;
(c) when a bill of indictment is preferred under section 2 of the Administration of Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1933 (c. 36) in a case falling within subsection (2)(b) of that section (preferment by Court of Appeal or High Court judge) or subsection (2)(ba) of that section (preferment by Crown Court judge following approval of deferred prosecution agreement).
(2) If more than one time is found under subsection (1) in relation to proceedings they are started at the earliest of them.
(3) If the defendant is acquitted on all counts in proceedings for an offence, t
…