Jargon buster

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Faculty of Advocates

This is the professional body to which all advocates belong.

Fine

A fine is a penalty where money must be paid to the court. The amount is set by the judge. Organisations can also be fined for offences including health and safety breaches. 

First diet

This is a date for a case calling in the sheriff court in solemn (more serious) proceedings to determine whether the prosecutor and the defence are ready to go to trial.

First offender

This is a person who is convicted of an offence of any kind for the first time.

Originally published on 20 July 2015. Updated on 15 April 2026.