Jargon buster

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Judge

The judge is the legal expert who is in charge of court proceedings. In less serious cases, the judge decides whether an accused has committed a crime (this is done by a jury in more serious cases). The judge decides the sentence in all cases. 

Judicial review

This review is a way for people to challenge (in the Court of Session) decisions made by public officials or bodies. Judicial reviews are used when no other form of appeal can be used.

Judicially-led

This refers to something that is led by judges. For example, the Sentencing Commission was led by judges with the help of other people.

Judiciary

This is the name given to the judges and tribunal panel members who deal with legal matters in Scotland. Judges include High Court and Court of Session judges, sheriffs and justices of the peace.

Jury

The jury in Scotland is the group of people (15 in criminal cases and 12 in civil cases) randomly selected by the court to decide the verdict of a serious criminal trial or civil case based on the evidence presented in court.

Justice of the peace

These judges deal with the least serious criminal cases. They are not legally qualified, but sit with a legal advisor who is legally qualified and can give advice on sentencing. Justices of the peace sit only in the Justice of the Peace Court. 

Justice of the Peace court

This court deals with the least serious crimes in Scotland.