Judicial System
What is the name of Scotland’s highest criminal court?
High Court of Justiciary
What is the national police force of Scotland called?
Police Scotland
Does Scotland currently use the death penalty?
No
What organization runs prisons in Scotland?
Scottish Prison Service
What is one verdict Scotland has that the U.S. does not?
Not proven
What type of judge handles most cases in Scotland’s courts?
Sheriff
Are most Scottish police officers armed with guns?
No, most are unarmed
What is the most severe punishment used in Scotland today?
Life imprisonment
Does Scotland separate jails and prisons like the U.S.?
No
Do Scottish juries need to be unanimous to convict?
No
How many jurors are in a Scottish criminal trial?
15
Name one common tool Scottish officers carry instead of guns.
Baton / pepper spray / handcuffs
Name one alternative to prison used in Scotland.
Community service / fines / probation
What are prisoners awaiting trial called?
Remand prisoners
What international human rights agreement protects Scottish citizens?
European Convention on Human Rights
What is unique about Scotland’s jury decision system compared to the U.S.?
A simple majority (8 votes) can convict
What year was Scotland’s police force unified into one national service?
2013
Around what decade was the death penalty abolished in the UK?
1960s (1965)
What is Scotland’s version of probation called?
Community Payback Orders
How is Scotland’s legal system different from the U.S. system overall?
It mixes civil law and common law traditions
What unusual third verdict exists in Scotland besides guilty and not guilty?
Not proven
What law limits police power and protects citizens’ rights in Scotland?
Human Rights Act 1998
What is the main focus of Scotland’s sentencing philosophy compared to the U.S.?
Rehabilitation over punishment
Name one type of rehabilitation program offered in Scottish prisons.
Education / job training / mental health programs
What is one major philosophical difference between Scotland and the U.S. justice systems?
Scotland emphasizes rehabilitation more than punishment