Means Enquiry Reports
What is a means enquiry report?
Means Enquiry Report is a brief report for court on your current
situation, setting out personal and financial circumstances. The
court may ask for one where you have an outstanding fine or you
have missed payments towards it. The report covers you income and
outgoings and provides a realistic plan for paying your fine.
Why does the court ask for the report?
The court will ask for a report on you if you were subject to a
fine or Compensation Order and your payments have been delayed or
inconsistent. The court will hold a "Means Enquiry Court" to
consider this and decide whether to change the payment rate, give
you more time to pay or impose an alternative sentence such
as a prison sentence or a
Supervised Attendance Order.
What questions will I be asked?
Your Social Worker will arrange to meet with you and will only
ask questions relevant to the payment of your fine, for example
about your income and expenses. You will only be asked personal
questions e.g. about your domestic arrangements if they have an
impact on your ability to pay.
Do I have to answer these questions?
Not - but you may find it more useful to
co-operate now with the report writer than to try and explain your
situation during the short time which you have in court. The report
will give the Sheriff or Justice a much fuller picture of your
present situation.
Will I see the report?
Yes, your solicitor will get a copy at court and you can see it
and comment on its contents.
Where can I get more information?
Speak to the Court Social Worker, or contact a member of our
team on 01738 472516 (preferably in the morning). If there is
no one able to help you at the time you can also come to
Criminal Justice Services, Unit 45, St Martin's House North, King
Edward Street, Perth, PH1 5UT and ask to speak to the Duty Social
Worker.
