The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) is responsible for the prosecution of crime in Scotland, the investigation of sudden or suspicious deaths, and the investigation of complaints against the police. We work closely with our partners in the criminal justice system to help make Scotland a safer place.
Strategic Aim
Our strategic aim is to serve the public interest, prosecuting cases independently, fairly and effectively.
COPFS is Scotland's sole prosecution authority. Our key objectives are:
- to secure the confidence of our diverse communities by improving the delivery of justice through the timely, efficient and effective prosecution of crime;
- to give priority to prosecution of serious crime, including drugs trafficking and persistent offenders;
- to provide services that meet the information needs of victims, witnesses and next of kin, in co-operation with other agencies;
- to ensure that all deaths reported to the Procurator Fiscal are investigated appropriately and speedily.
Our values are:
- independence - our decisions will be impartial, fair and timely and taken on an independent, objective and professional assessment of the evidence available and in the public interest;
- integrity - our professional integrity will be maintained by:
Being open with the court, and fair and dispassionate in the prosecution of cases in court
Disclosing any information which may be material to the defence
Preserving the appropriate confidentiality of reports and investigations
- sensitivity - we will be sensitive to the needs of the public, including victims, next of kin and witnesses;
- respect - we will respect staff, developing to the fullest extent their potential, valuing their contribution, fostering team work and rewarding good performance;
- professionalism - we will continue to be committed to investigating, preparing and presenting cases thoroughly, critically and accurately.