crime and the law - courts

Question 1

what are the sentencing powers of justive of the peace courts?

Answer 1

• maximum fine of £2,500
• maximum prison sentence of 60 days
• as well as a fine it has the power of ‘disqualification’ for example disqualified to drive or disqualified to care for animals

Question 2

what are the sentencing powers of high courts of justiciary?

Answer 2

• sentencing powers are unlimited
  -for most serious offences like murder and rape
• glasgow and edinburgh have permenant high court buildings

Question 2

what are the sentencing powers of sherrif courts?

Answer 2

• minimum penalty that may be imposed is 3 months imprisonmnent or a £5000 fine in summary cases
• 5 year inmrosonment and unlimeted fines in solemn cases
• as well as a fine, they can give non- custodial sentences such as a CPOs and tagging