Coronavirus (COVID-19): Justice Analytical Services Data Report - March 2021
Monthly data report on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the justice system in Scotland, including information from Police Scotland, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, and Scottish Prison Service.
First substantive marking
When COPFS receive a report that someone has committed a crime the prosecutor must decide whether and what action to take. This is recorded on the case as a "marking". If a decision cannot be taken immediately, an interim marking may be recorded. When a substantive decision is reached a First Substantive Marking (FSM) is recorded, to indicate how the prosecutor has decided to proceed.
The number of accused given a FSM by COPFS increased substantially in the early part of January 2021 but returned to 19-20 average levels by the end of February and continued to decline throughout March 21. The number of reports awaiting marking is now significantly below 19-20 average levels. The number of reports with an interim marking remains above 19-20 average levels.
Contact
Email: Justice_Analysts@gov.scot
There is a problem
Thanks for your feedback