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Legal Matters
Scotland
Scotland urged to modernise outdated witness citation system

A joint review by HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland (IPS) and HM Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMICS) has called for modernising Scotland's "antiquated" witness citation process in sheriff courts. The report highlighted that most civilian witnesses are still notified by post, causing inefficiencies, trial adjournments, and significant demands on police resources, including £2.66m spent on overtime in 2024–25. Inspectors recommended adopting digital citation methods, better coordination of witness availability, and training for staff, alongside a trauma-informed approach to notices. The review also suggested a fully integrated digital trial scheduling system to reduce unnecessary citations and improve the efficiency and experience of witnesses.

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