Justice Secretary Angela Constance announced the pilot at the Scottish Parliament’s Criminal Justice Committee during stage two scrutiny of the Scottish government’s Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill.

Speaking after the Committee session, Ms Constance, said: “The pilot will provide free specialist independent legal advice by dedicated solicitors for complainers in rape and attempted rape cases, utilising the expert Emma Ritch Law Clinic at the University of Glasgow. 

“It will provide access, where desired, to an independent experienced court practitioner who will help victims to understand their rights and assist them in feeling more prepared for giving evidence. This support will be available right through the prosecution process and beyond if needed.

“The pilot is part of the Scottish government’s wider work, including proposals being taken forward through the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill, to improve victims’ experiences of the criminal justice system. An advisory group will be set up to help develop the pilot and more details will be available in due course.”

Vice Dean of Faculty Tony Lenehan KC said: “The Faculty of Advocates welcomes the ILA pilot. This bold innovation by the Scottish government will improve the experience of vulnerable and anxious witnesses and complainers as they navigate our criminal justice system, enhancing their understanding of the processes involved, maximising their engagement, and yielding greater satisfaction with how they are treated within it.”