Justice Analytical Services (JAS): Safer Communities and Justice Statistics Monthly Data Report: March 2023 edition

How crime flows through the Justice System

Graphic text below:

Incident reported

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:

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

Police report the case to COPFS

The accused will be:

1. Kept in custody - Case called the next court day.

2. Released on an Undertaking - Accused told when to appear and may have bail conditions.

3. At liberty - If prosecuted, the accused will receive a citation stating the charge and when to appear.

Report marked by COPFS

Prosecutor decides if accused is prosecuted:

1. No action - e.g. not enough evidence.

2. Direct Measure - An alternative to prosecution, e.g. Fiscal Fine or warning letter.

3. Summary prosecution - JP or Sheriff Court (no jury)

4. Solemn prosecution - Sheriff or High Court (with jury)

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