Special defence
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A special defence in Scots law may be raised in criminal proceedings upon notice by the accused ahead of the trial. If established, it results in an acquittal.[1] The only purpose of the special defence procedure is to give fair notice: it does not prejudice the plea of not guilty by an accused; the Crown still must prove the acts charged beyond a reasonable doubt.[2]: 29 [3]
In solemn proceedings (prosecutions on indictment of more serious criminal offences before a judge and jury of 15 persons)[4] notice of a special defence must be given at least 10 days before the trial date[5] and the jury is advised of the special defence immediately after the indictment has been read (or summarised) and each juror is given a copy of the accused's notice.[6]: 15 [7]
