Our Social Work staff assist the courts to decide what the individual's sentence should be by providing reports. These reports contain information which assists the courts to assess the risk to the community.

The information also helps to identify the person’s needs and what Justice Services can do to support them.

Sheriffs and judges can request reports on anyone appearing before them but there are certain circumstances where a report should always be considered:

  • People under 21 years of age
  • Adults who have not previously been to custody
  • Clients who are already being supervised

Each report must include the following information:

  • Details of the person’s personal circumstances
  • Their attitude to the offence
  • The impact on the victim (if known)
  • An assessment of the risk of further offending

The report will also discuss the options available to the court and recommend which one would be best to prevent further offending and protect the public.