In April 2009 the Scottish Government announced an independent review of sheriff and jury practice and procedure in Scotland, to ensure that the system is as fair, effective and efficient as possible.
Solemn procedure is used for the most serious criminal cases in Scotland. These are heard before a jury under solemn procedure in the High Court and the Sheriff Court. The vast majority of solemn cases, over 80 per cent, are dealt with by the Sheriff Court. The Sheriff can impose a maximum term of imprisonment of five years following a jury trial. 
The Review was undertaken by Sheriff Principal Bowen who submitted his report to Scottish Ministers on 11 June 2010.
The remit of the Review was:
"To review the arrangements for sheriff and jury business, including the procedures and practices of the Sheriff Court and the rules of criminal procedure as they apply to solemn business in the Sheriff Court; and to make recommendations for the more efficient and cost-effective operation of sheriff and jury business in promoting the interests of justice and reducing inconvenience and stress to the victims and witnesses involved in cases."
The Review followed on from previous independent reviews of the High Court led by Lord Bonomy and summary justice reform led by Sheriff Principal McInnes. As such it will complete the examination of the Scottish criminal justice system to make sure it is modern and fit for purpose.
The Scottish Government has published its response to the Review's recommendations and is undertaking further work, in consultation with criminal justice organisations, with a view to implementing procedural reform.