Learn languages naturally with fresh, real content!

tap to translate recording

Explore By Region

flag Scotland replaces "not proven" verdict with 10/15 jury rule to improve rape conviction rates.

flag Scotland is ending its centuries-old "not proven" verdict, replacing it with a higher conviction threshold of 10 out of 15 jurors, in a reform aimed at improving justice for victims, especially in rape and sexual assault cases. flag The change, part of the Victims and Witnesses Reform (Scotland) Act, also establishes a specialist sexual offense court and grants lifelong anonymity and legal representation to rape complainants. flag While supporters, including victim advocates and families of victims, praise the move as empowering, some legal experts warn the higher bar may reduce convictions, arguing the previous verdict allowed nuanced jury decisions without fully acquitting. flag The bill passed 71 to 46, reflecting a significant shift in Scotland’s 300-year-old justice system.

3 Articles