The criminal justice system (Eric McQueen, Scottish Court Service)

Scotland's criminal justice system operates through a hierarchical court structure: the High Court of Justiciary handles the most serious cases like murder with unlimited sentencing powers; Sheriff Courts handle medium-level cases using either jury (solemn procedure) or sheriff-only (summary procedure) with maximum sentences of 5 years and £10,000 fines; and Justice of the Peace Courts handle minor offenses with maximum sentences of 60 days and £1,000 fines, presided over by community members without formal legal qualifications.