The report said this was the "main complaint" from procurators fiscal around the country.

Many felt the amount of time set aside for them to prepare for trials was "simply inadequate" and some ended up doing work at home.

The lack of time for fiscals to get cases ready for trial was one issue highlighted in a new review of preparation for summary cases – less serious offences which are dealt with by a sheriff and do not need to go before a jury.

The report, by the Inspectorate of Prosecution in Scotland, makes 16 recommendations on how the way such cases are handled could be improved.