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Criminal cases in Scotland can call at the High Court, Sheriff Court or Justice of the Peace Court.
The Procurator Fiscal from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service decides if a case will be heard in the High Court, Sheriff Court or Justice of the Peace Court.
Cases allocated to the Sheriff Court or the Justice of the Peace Court are usually held in the court closest to where the alleged crime was committed.
High Court cases are generally heard in the High Court buildings in Edinburgh or Glasgow or within dedicated premises at Aberdeen. In practice the High Court may also sit in a suitable sheriff court building in a town or city near where the crime happened.
The High Court hears the most serious cases including all cases of rape and murder. There are no limits on the length of prison sentences, or the amount of any fine the High Court may impose.
The Sheriff Court can hear all other criminal cases. These cases are dealt with by solemn procedure or summary procedure.
In solemn procedure, the court can sentence an accused to a period of up to five years in prison or impose a fine of any amount.
In summary procedure, the court can sentence an accused to a maximum period of twelve months and the maximum fine is £10,000.
The Justice of the Peace Court hears minor summary cases. The Justice of the Peace can sentence an accused to a period of up to sixty days in prison or impose a fine of up to £2500.
Virtual courtrooms tours are available on the Victim Support Scotland website.
Courtroom Tours