Commentary on Sections Application to establish grounds Section 102 – Jurisdiction and standard of proof: offence ground
153.This section provides a special jurisdiction rule for grounds hearings where the ground(s) for referral include that a child has committed an offence. Subsection (2) provides that the application must be made to a sheriff who would have jurisdiction if the child were being prosecuted for the offence. Subsection (3) provides that the standard of proof in relation to the ground is that which applies in criminal proceedings – that is proved beyond reasonable doubt.