Explanatory Notes

Children’s Hearings (Scotland) Act 2011

2011 asp 1

6 January 2011

Commentary on Sections

Part 10 – Proceedings before Sheriff

Application to establish grounds

Section 102 – Jurisdiction and standard of proof: offence ground

153.This section provides a special jurisdiction rule for grounds hearings where the ground(s) for referral include that a child has committed an offence. Subsection (2) provides that the application must be made to a sheriff who would have jurisdiction if the child were being prosecuted for the offence. Subsection (3) provides that the standard of proof in relation to the ground is that which applies in criminal proceedings – that is proved beyond reasonable doubt.