Sheriff Appeal Court

The Sheriff Appeal Court hears criminal appeals from summary cases in the sheriff courts and justice of the peace courts.

The Sheriff Appeal Court deals with appeals in summary criminal cases, those heard without a jury. It hears appeals against conviction, usually by a process called a stated case, and appeals against sentence, which are made by a note of appeal. The time limits are short, often one week from the final decision or sentence, and permission, known as leave, is needed. The prosecutor can also appeal against a sentence it considers unduly lenient. The court also hears bail appeals from the sheriff and justice of the peace courts. Appeals are heard by appeal sheriffs, who are experienced sheriffs. A further appeal to the High Court of Justiciary is possible only on a point of law and with permission.

Checked as at 25 September 2026. General information only, not legal advice.