March solemn cases increase – along with petitions

Scottish courts heard above average numbers of solemn cases during March, but the number of petitions was also higher than normal, according to the latest monthly figures from the Scottish Courts & Tribunals Service.

The data show that 51 High Court evidence led trials commenced, 23% higher than the average monthly pre-COVID level, along with 100 sheriff solemn trials (6% higher than average); and that 64 High Court cases were concluded (5% lower than pre-COVID average) along with 468 sheriff solemn cases (9% higher than average).

However petitions, which provide a useful indicator of future solemn business, were 31% higher than the average monthly pre-COVID level. 

Evidence led summary trials in the sheriff courts, which only resumed normal sittings this month, were at 43% of the average monthly pre-COVID levels. 

The overall level of new cases registered was 86% of the average monthly pre-COVID level.

The workbook is available at http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/official-statistics