Crime and law

UK citizens have many legal rights and responsibilities. There are different types of laws protecting the rights of individuals - from civil laws to criminal laws.

From the effects of drugs, to peer pressure, to difficult upbringings, there are many theories about the cause of crime. Different theories focus on the choices of individuals or on social circumstances.

Certain sectors of society can be affected by crime in different ways and annual statistics can reveal important trends about who carries out and who is affected by crime.

Crime can cause significant social and economic problems to individuals and communities. Tackling crime can be expensive for the government.

There are different types of courts in Scotland. Young people are treated differently from adults within the Scottish criminal justice system. The Scottish government are looking to reduce the number of people going to prison.