After the verdict: information for accused persons

At the end of the evidence in a trial, the Sheriff or Justice of the Peace or jury (in a High Court or Sheriff and Jury trial) will reach a verdict. The verdict will be announced in the court. The available verdicts are:

• guilty
• not guilty
• not proven

If you are found not guilty or the case is not proven, the Judge, Sheriff or Justice of the Peace will confirm when you are free to leave the court.

Sentencing is a matter for the court.

If you are found guilty, the Judge, Sheriff or Justice will either:

• pass sentence (decide punishment) straight after the verdict
• adjourn (delay) sentencing to a later date – this allows time to gather information that will help decide your sentence

If sentencing is adjourned to a later date, the Judge, Sheriff or Justice of the Peace will decide whether you should be remanded in custody meantime or granted bail.

Any questions regarding sentencing, including the sentencing options available to the court, should be discussed with your legal representative.

Fines

If the sentence includes a fine, this will be dealt with by the court.

Information on fines can be found on the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service's website.

Pay a fine here.

Other sentences

Mygov.scot has more information about sentencing options available to the court.

Any questions regarding appeals against conviction and/or sentence should be discussed with your legal representative.

Scottish Courts and Tribunal Services have more information on the appeals process.

The police may have seized items belonging to you as part of their criminal investigation. Where possible and where appropriate, legal property can be returned after the case has been disposed of.

Questions regarding the return of your property should be discussed with your legal representative.

Any questions regarding parole and release from prison following a sentence of imprisonment should be discussed with your legal representative.

Further information about parole and conditions of early release are available on the Scottish Prison Service's website.