Court reforms update

22 September 2015 – Sheriff Appeal Court (Criminal)

On 22 September, the new Sheriff Appeal Court will begin with its criminal jurisdiction.

Section 118 of the 2014 Act transfers the powers and jurisdiction of the High Court to the Sheriff Appeal Court so far as relating to appeals from courts of summary criminal jurisdiction.

Section 122 of the 2014 Act also provides for bail appeals – an appeal against a bail decision of a sheriff (whether in solemn or summary proceedings) or aJustice of the Peace Court will be to the Sheriff Appeal Court.

Relevant changes have been made to the Criminal Procedure Rules.

The Act also provides for a further appeal from the Sheriff Appeal Court to the High Court. The second appeals test will apply to such appeals.