Midlothian Justice Service

Early intervention

Early intervention offers courts and the Procurator Fiscal a range of community-based options that provide structure, support and monitoring.

These interventions reduce the need for remand and custody as they allow individuals to remain in their communities, while being supported to make positive changes and reduce the likelihood of further offending.

Diversion from prosecution

This may be used by the Procurator Fiscal instead of taking a case to Court.

It does not mean admitting guilt, and it does not result in a criminal conviction.

You will be supported to address issues that may have contributed to the alleged offence. A Social Worker will then share their assessment with the Procurator Fiscal, who will use this information to decide what the next steps should be. This may include offering diversion with a short period of focused work, deciding that no further action is required, or concluding that diversion is not suitable in the circumstances.

Discussions with your social worker will not be used as evidence if your case later proceeds to trial.

Supervised Bail

This can be used by the Courts as an alternative to holding you on remand. 

Social workers will support you to comply with your bail conditions. You will have regular contact with your allocated worker who will offer practical support, advice and refer you to relevant services such as housing, wellbeing or substance use support.

Your allocated worker will monitor compliance and report it to the Court. 

Electronic monitoring

This is often referred to as ‘a tag’. It can be used on its own as a bail condition or alongside supervised bail.

It is adapted to your specific conditions such as curfews, staying away from certain locations and time restrictions. 

Structured Deferred Sentences

This can be used after conviction but before your final sentencing. It involves a short period of targeted support. 

A Justice Social Work Report identifies your needs and sets out agreed goals. This can allow you to show you can comply with supervision and make progress before the Court determines the final sentence.