What is procurator-fiscal?

A procurator-fiscal is a legal official in Scotland who is responsible for investigating criminal cases, and decides whether or not there is enough evidence to bring the case to court. They also have the power to prosecute criminal cases on behalf of the Crown. The role of the procurator fiscal is similar to that of a prosecutor in other countries, and they are appointed by the Lord Advocate, the senior law officer in Scotland. Procurators fiscal are based in offices across Scotland, and work closely with the police, courts and other criminal justice agencies to ensure that the law is enforced and justice is served.