New figures have shown that many domestic violence cases are prosecuted in the lower-level courts, leading to calls from the Scottish Liberal Democrats for a review of prosecution guidelines for cases of domestic violence.
Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesperson Alison McInnes MSP raised the issue during Parliamentary Questions, and the figures that were provided apparently revealed that of the 4,118 domestic violence charges that occurred in 2012-13, only 4.4% were prosecuted on indictment, which meant they could be heard before a jury and in a higher court that has a greater range of sentencing powers.
“Summary trials are usually appropriate when we are talking about a single incident. However, I am surprised that only 4.4% of cases alleging domestic assault to injury last year were considered by a jury,” commented Alison McInnes.
“In those cases where prosecutors believe that there is clearly a pattern of sustained domestic violence, then the option to prosecute in a higher court must be considered carefully. The most serious offenders must be properly identified so that they can be dealt with accordingly.
“We must ensure that those found guilty of these reprehensible crimes receive an appropriate sentence and that people living with domestic abuse are getting the support they need.”
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