Ruth Charteris KC spoke of her commitment to ensuring domestic abusers are brought to justice as new figures showed more than 34,500 domestic abuse charges were reported to prosecutors last year.
Statistics compiled by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) show a 14% increase in domestic abuse charges. Court action was ordered in 91% of cases.
Scotland’s most senior prosecutor said protecting women and girls from abusive men will be a clear priority during her time in office. She assured victims that prosecutors stand with them – and will use Scotland’s domestic abuse legislation to hold abusers to account for every aspect of their criminal behaviour.
Ms Charteris said: “I am acutely aware that every one of the 34,586 charges received by COPFS reflects the suffering of a victim – in the overwhelming majority of cases, a woman harmed by a man.
“It is concerning for all of us that the number of reports has increased, particularly those involving some of the most serious offending.
“Scotland must change. Ending domestic abuse in our communities is an issue for each of us to address every day, challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours wherever we see them.
“Prevention is vital if Scotland is to reduce this harm in the future, but there are victims who need the protection of the law today. Where men are abusing victims now, the justice system must respond firmly and hold that behaviour to account.
“Perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions through robust prosecution that reflects the nature and seriousness of their offending.
“Victims should be assured they will be listened to and taken seriously by prosecutors; their experiences will be recognised; they will be supported through the legal process.
“Using prosecution to protect victims, prevent further harm and hold abusers to account will be a guiding principle during my time as Lord Advocate.”
COPFS’ national lead prosecutor for domestic abuse, Dr Emma Forbes, said:
“As a prosecution service, we have worked hard to better understand the lived experience of victims and their children.
“Scotland has legislation which allows us to capture abuse as a course of conduct, which may have gone on for some time, not just an isolated incident.
“To anyone experiencing abuse; it is not your fault. You deserve safety, not fear.
“If you are enduring abuse, have witnessed abuse, or are simply worried about a friend or relative, please speak to someone you trust or report to Police Scotland.
“We know it can be difficult to come forward but you will be listened to and supported as we seek to secure justice.”
Domestic Abuse and Stalking Charges in Scotland, 2025-26 | COPFS