Should Scotland’s unique “not proven” verdict be abolished in criminal trials?
Scotland's legal system is unique in offering three verdicts: Guilty, Not Guilty, and Not Proven. Often called the "bastard verdict," "Not Proven" has the same legal effect as "Not Guilty" (acquittal) but implies the jury believes the accused is guilty but lacks evidence. Proponents of abolition argue it protects rapists and denies victims closure; opponents argue it prevents wrongful convictions in a system that allows majority verdicts (8 out of 15) rather than unanimity.
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