IPS and HMICS - Citing witnesses in the sheriff court - Terms of Reference

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Terms of reference

14th March 2025

The aim of this inspection is to assess how effectively and efficiently prosecution witnesses are cited to give evidence at court. This includes members of the public who have been the victim of a crime or who have witnessed a crime, as well as police and professional witnesses. We will consider whether and how the experience of being cited to attend court can be improved, and whether there is scope to modernise and achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness in the citation process.

About us

HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland

HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland (IPS) is led by HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution who is appointed by the Lord Advocate to inspect the operation of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. The functions of HM Chief Inspector are set out in the Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007. The 2007 Act makes clear that in the exercise of any of the functions conferred by the Act, HM Chief Inspector is independent of any other person.

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland

HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) is established under the Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012 and has wide ranging powers to look into the state, effectiveness and efficiency of both Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority (SPA). HMICS has a statutory duty to ensure that the Chief Constable and the SPA meet their obligations in terms of best value and continuous improvement. HMICS also has an established role in providing professional advice and guidance on policing in Scotland.

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