In the early spring of 1700, Janet Kennedy found herself at the centre of an ill-fated chapter in Dumfries' troubled history with witchcraft. Accusations of malevolent witchcraft were unfortunately common in this period, reflecting a broader societal anxiety that gripped Scotland between 1563 and 1736. The records concerning Janet reflect this era's complexity and often arbitrary application of justice. In this instance, there seems to have been no formal trial conducted, a departure from more conventional proceedings that would include interrogation and examination before judging the accused.
Despite the absence of trial formalities, Janet's fate was decided by the local authorities and religious oversight of the kirk session—a body combining ecclesiastical and civic jurisdiction. After spending a year in prison, it was decreed that Janet was to be released but could no longer remain in the town. The judgment of banishment, while severe, spared her from harsher sentences that others in her position might have faced, such as execution. Banishment during this period often meant exile from one's community and home, effectively severing social bonds and support networks. Janet faced relocation alone, carrying the stigma of the accusation with her, a weight that would follow her irrespective of her guilt or the lack of evidence in her case.