Statement: Not Proven verdict

The Scottish Government has published an independent analysis of the responses to the public consultation on the not proven verdict and related reforms which ran from 13 December 2021 to 11 March 2022.

Our Chief Executive, Kate Wallace, said:

“We welcome the consultation analysis published by the Scottish Government today.

“It is our experience that many victims, witnesses and their families find the ‘Not Proven’ verdict to be confusing, disappointing and at times, re-traumatising.

“The ‘Not Proven’ verdict is unique to the Scottish justice system, and leaves many victims without the conclusive answer they need to move forward with their lives.

“We look forward to future proposals, and will continue to work alongside the government to ensure victims and their families are at the centre of the justice system, and are supported in the aftermath of crime.”