accused.scot
Scottish criminal justice, explained plainly
Source-led analysis of procedure, evidential rules, and fair-trial principles.
Written for people navigating the system, not lawyers.
If someone you love has just been accused, you don’t need to understand the law yet.
Waiting to hear from the police? Supporting someone who has been accused?
If you are accused of a sexual offence
Five stages, from first police contact to what follows the verdict.
Understanding the Law
Plain English explanations of corroboration, Moorov, Section 274, Section 275, and Article 6.
Disclosure and Evidence
What the accused is entitled to see, what happens when disclosure fails, and how productions work.
Support and Organisations
Legal aid, post-conviction support, family support, and complaints bodies.
Key Documents and FOI Material
FOI responses, court judgments, parliamentary material, and external reports.
Accused of another offence? See the general guide
Organisations That Can Help
Organisations that can help those accused, convicted, or affected by the Scottish criminal justice system.
The Miscarriages of Justice Organisation
MOJO supports individuals who maintain their innocence after conviction, including those in custody and after release.
Next Chapter Scotland
Supporting people and families affected by criminal records or investigations — money, work, disclosure, and stigma.
Scottish Legal Complaints Commission
The first point of contact for all complaints about lawyers in Scotland. Independent and free to use.
Latest Analysis
FOI Analysis
What Scotland Cannot Properly Measure About False Allegations
A look at the systemic asymmetry in Scottish criminal justice data recording.
Procedural Analysis
What is Section 275
One of the least understood and most consequential parts of Scottish criminal procedure.
Browse All Articles
Source-led analysis of Scottish criminal justice procedure, FOI findings, and evidential rules.
New to Accused.scot?
The resource directory provides plain English guidance on the Scottish criminal justice process, the legal doctrines that shape it, and the organisations that can help.