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HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland
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Scrutinising Scotland’s prosecution service

We promote excellence and confidence in the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service through independent evidence-based inspection.

Our purpose
Our Inspection slide

Latest report

In March 2026 we published our inspection on the citing witnesses in the sheriff court, carried out jointly with HM Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland.

Citing witnesses in the sheriff court
Publications slide

Our current inspection

We are currently reviewing how prosecution witnesses are cited to give evidence in the sheriff court.

Read the Terms of Reference
Inspection programme slide

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About us

HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland has a statutory remit to inspect the operation of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service

Who we are

Inspections are led by HM Chief Inspector of Prosecution and her small team of inspectors and support staff.

Inspection programme

In developing our inspection programme, we consult with key stakeholders to decide which areas of COPFS work to scrutinise.

What we do

We promote excellence and confidence in the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service through independent evidence-based inspection.

Our history

HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland was established in 2003 and was given a statutory remit by the Criminal Proceedings etc. (Reform) (Scotland) Act 2007.

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News

Front cover of citing witnesses in the sheriff court - joint inspection report

Press Release – Citations

3rd March 2026

Front cover of Annual Report 2024-25

News – Annual Report 2024-25 published

13th November 2025

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© 2026 HM Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland

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