Coronavirus (COVID-19): Justice Analytical Services data report - October 2020

Fifth release of a 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 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 is returning to pre-lockdown levels.
Fiscal Week Beginning 26 October 2020 19-20 weekly average Weekly average since lockdown % of 19-20 average
Accused given a First Substantive Marking 3,445 3,028 88%
Accused that are in the process of being marked (interim marked) 2,971 3,487 117%
Accused that have not begun the marking process  (unmarked) 16,477 12,427 75%

FSM Reports
Returning to 2019-20 levels

Unmarked
A quarter lower than last year

Contact

Email: Justice_Analysts@gov.scot

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