(1)This section applies where the accused makes a submission of the kind mentioned in section 97A(2)(a).
(2)If the judge is satisfied that the evidence is insufficient in law to justify the accused's being convicted of the indicted offence, then—
(a)where the judge is satisfied that the evidence is also insufficient in law to justify the accused's being convicted of a related offence—
(i)the judge must acquit the accused of the indicted offence, and
(ii)the trial is to proceed only in respect of any other offence libelled in the indictment,
(b)where the judge is satisfied that the evidence is sufficient in law to justify the accused's being convicted of a related offence, the judge must direct that the indictment be amended accordingly.
(3)If the judge is not satisfied as is mentioned in subsection (2)—
(a)the judge must reject the submission, and
(b)the trial is to proceed as if the submission had not been made.
(4)The judge may make a decision under this section only after hearing both (or all) parties.
(5)An amendment made by virtue of this section must be sufficiently authenticated by the initials of the judge or the clerk of court.
(6)In this section, “indicted offence” and “related offence” have the same meanings as in section 97A.]
Textual Amendments
F1Ss. 97A-97D inserted (28.3.2011) by Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010 (asp 13), ss. 73, 206(1); S.S.I. 2011/178, art. 2, sch.