Senior partner David McKie has questioned the proposal to abolish the Not Proven verdict announced today by the Scottish government and is quoted extensively in the media:
David commented:
“The ‘not proven’ verdict has been a vital cornerstone of the Scottish justice system for centuries. It is grounded in ensuring a fundamental pillar of the trial process – that the Crown proves its case beyond reasonable doubt.
“I see no reason to abolish the verdict and am concerned at what appears a further erosion of the rights of an accused person in this country. A judge or a jury is perfectly capable of understanding the distinction in each case and to reach a verdict based on the unique circumstances they face. I am not convinced this will do anything to help victims or complainers at all.”
