About Us
Role of the SCCRC
Our role is to review and investigate cases where it is alleged that a miscarriage of justice may have occurred in relation to conviction, sentence or both. We can only review cases where the conviction and sentence was imposed by a Scottish court. We can review both solemn and summary cases.
Independent review
Our review of all cases is carried out independently of Parliament, the Scottish Government, the Crown, the Justiciary and the Defence. All cases accepted by us are subject to a robust and thoroughly impartial review before a decision on whether or not to refer a case to the High Court is taken.
Our strategic aims
These aims were previously set and agreed with Scottish Ministers, and have subsequently been revised to provide greater focus on our key responsibilities:
To strengthen public confidence in the justice system by identifying and reviewing potential miscarriages of justice
To investigate all cases to a consistently high standard and without undue delay
To promote public understanding of the Commission’s role
To work with others to deliver a quality service which is person-centred and trauma informed
Legislative Framework
The Commission was established in 1999 under Part XA of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995. We have the power to refer solemn cases (High Court and Sheriff & Jury) and summary cases. We make all our referrals directly to the High Court.
The grounds upon which we may refer a case to the High Court, under section 194C of the 1995 Act, are that we believe:
(a) a miscarriage of justice may have occurred; and
(b) it is in the interests of justice that a reference should be made.
When we refer a case the High Court deals with it as a normal appeal, as set out in Part VIII of the1995 Act. Our powers of investigation are set out at section 194H, I and IA of the 1995 Act. These include the power to request a precognition on oath and the power to obtain documents from any person or organisation.
We operate within a framework of statutory provisions that limit our disclosure of such information, as set out in section 194J–T of the 1995 Act, the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation.
2024-25 Annual Report
Our 2024-25 Annual Report was published on 30 September 2025 and provides a detailed commentary of our performance over the year. In addition, it includes details of case related statistics, referrals to the High Court and information in respect of Post Office cases and our 25th Anniversary Seminar, which was held in November 2024. You can also find previous annual reports within the publications section of the website.
Selected Publications
Corporate & Business Planning
Corporate Plan – 2025-28
Published: 9th September 2025
Corporate & Business Planning
Business Plan – 2025-26
Published: 9th September 2025