News

  1. Hate crime charges increases to new high

    The Lord Advocate, Ruth Charteris KC, has reaffirmed prosecutors’ commitment to tackling hate crime.

    30 Jun 2026 Statements
  2. Hate Crime in Scotland, 2025-26

    A report on Hate Crime in Scotland 2025-26 was published today.

    30 Jun 2026 COPFS corporate
  3. Prosecution statement following sentencing of Peter Murrell

    The Lord Advocate has acknowledged the conclusion of proceedings in the case against Peter Murrell and recognised the work of those involved in the investigation and prosecution.

    23 Jun 2026 Statements
  4. Revised Prosecution Code published

    The Lord Advocate has introduced a revised and updated Prosecution Code, which sets out the framework used by Scotland’s independent prosecutors when making decisions about prosecution.

    22 Jun 2026 COPFS corporate
  5. New Lord Advocate pledges independence and focus on the public interest

    The newly appointed Lord Advocate has pledged to serve the public interest with independence and integrity as she takes office.

    19 Jun 2026 Statements
  6. Trinity High School in Renfrew win COPFS schools public speaking competition

    Trinity High School in Renfrew have been crowned winners of this year’s prestigious Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) schools public speaking competition.

    12 Jun 2026 COPFS corporate
  7. Lord Advocate reflects on her five-year tenure as she prepares to step down

    Dorothy Bain KC has commented on her time in one of the Great Offices of State. 

    20 May 2026 Statements
  8. Lord Advocate offers personal message of thanks

    Dorothy Bain KC has expressed her deep gratitude to colleagues as Lord Advocate tenure ends.

    20 May 2026 Statements
  9. Prosecutors issue warning on dangers of strangulation

    Prosecutors have issued a powerful warning of the dangers of strangulation – which can cause brain death within minutes but leave no physical signs.

    13 Apr 2026 Statements
  10. Lord Advocate’s message as figures show more offenders are convicted for domestic abuse

    Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC has expressed her deep hope that victims of domestic abuse can see routes to a safer future after new figures showed a 19 percent rise in conviction for offenders.

    22 Dec 2025 Statements