Sheriff court

The sheriff court deals with most criminal cases in Scotland, either before a sheriff alone or, in serious cases, a sheriff and jury.

Sheriff courts sit in towns and cities across Scotland and hear the majority of criminal cases. A sheriff is a legally qualified judge. In summary cases, a sheriff or a summary sheriff sits alone and decides the verdict, and can impose up to 12 months' imprisonment and a fine of up to £10,000, unless the offence sets a lower maximum. In solemn cases, a sheriff sits with a jury of 15 and can impose up to five years' imprisonment or an unlimited fine, or send the case to the High Court for sentence if a longer sentence is needed. Sheriff courts also handle first appearances on petition in serious cases, bail hearings and civil cases. Appeals from summary cases go to the Sheriff Appeal Court.

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