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Pilot scheme for free access to court transcripts - Q&A

The Scottish Government recently announced a new pilot scheme allowing survivors of rape and serious sexual assault to apply to receive copies of transcripts from their court cases for free. 

We've answered some questions you might have about the pilot and what it could mean for you.

What has been announced?

The Scottish Government has announced a funded pilot for survivors of sexual violence to access court transcripts from their cases for free. This will apply only to survivors of rape or serious sexual assault whose cases were heard in the High Court. The pilot scheme has gone live and is now open for applications.

Why has this been announced?

This announcement has come after years of tireless campaigning by survivors of sexual violence. Survivors have raised this issue in the media and with the Scottish Government directly. It’s thanks to them that more survivors will be able to access their court transcripts without facing a significant financial barrier.

The Criminal Justice Committee has also been raising this issue consistently.

Why do survivors need to access court transcripts?

Survivors may also wish to have a copy of their court transcripts to have a full picture of what happened in court. Often, survivors are advised not to watch the entirety of the trial of their case. This can mean that survivors can feel as though they never understood what happened in the courtroom. Having access to transcripts can help survivors see, in black and white, what was said in court.

It is also very difficult for a survivor to make a complaint about how they were treated in court without having access to a transcript.

Paying for transcripts can be very expensive and be out of the reach of many survivors. This meant that, effectively, only those able to pay were able to make complaints about their treatment in court.

How long will the pilot scheme run?

The pilot scheme will run for 12 months.

Who is eligible to apply?

Survivors whose cases involved rape or serious sexual assault, were heard at the High Court, and began on or after 31 December 2006 are eligible to apply.

How do I apply?

An application form will be available on the Scottish Courts and Tribunals website.

Do I have to want to make a complaint to access my transcripts?

No, there is no requirement for you to make a complaint after you have received your court transcripts.

What can I do with my transcripts once I have them?

The transcript is intended for your use – whether to help you understand what happened in a case, or to pursue a complaint. Please consider that it may be difficult and traumatic to read; it is worth considering having someone present with you for support when you read it.

The Scottish Government has requested that anyone who obtains their transcript through the pilot does not share the transcript publicly.