Coronavirus (COVID-19): Justice Analytical Services data report - November 2021

How crime flows through the Justice System

1. Incident reported

2. Crime classified and suspect charged.

Incident is reviewed by Police to determine if it is a crime. If a crime, Police charge suspect (where possible) and issue:

• Fixed Penalty Notice or Recorded Police Warning,
• a report to COPFS, or
• decide on no further action.

3. Police report the case to COPFS

The accused will be:

• Kept in custody - Case called the next court day.
• Released on an Undertaking - Accused told when to appear and may have bail conditions.
• At liberty - If prosecuted, the accused will receive a citation stating the charge and when to appear.

4. Report marked by COPFS

Prosecutor decides if accused is prosecuted:

• No action - e.g. not enough evidence.
• Direct Measure - An alternative to prosecution, e.g. Fiscal Fine or warning letter.
• Summary prosecution - JP or Sheriff Court (no jury)
• Solemn prosecution - Sheriff or High Court (with jury)

5. Case heard and court outcomes

If the accused is found guilty in court, or tendered a guilty plea, then they can be given:

• Custodial Sentence
• Community Sentence
• Monetary Penalty
• Admonished/Dismissed
• 'Other' disposal