High Court of Justiciary
Scotland's supreme criminal court handling the most serious offences including murder, rape, and major fraud. It also serves as the final court of appeal for all criminal cases in Scotland.
Scotland · general legal information
Understand your legal options in Scotland
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The legal system
How the legal system works in Scotland
Scotland maintains a separate legal system with unique courts and procedures rooted in civil law traditions. The High Court of Justiciary handles serious criminal cases, while Sheriff Courts deal with most civil and criminal matters. Solicitors provide legal advice and representation, regulated by the Law Society of Scotland. Legal aid is administered by the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB), and criminal prosecutions are conducted by the Procurator Fiscal.
- Solicitor regulator
- Law Society of Scotland
- Legal aid body
- Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB)
Courts and tribunals
Key courts in Scotland
Sheriff Court
The main local court dealing with most criminal cases and civil disputes up to certain financial limits. Sheriff Courts handle everything from minor offences to family law matters and debt recovery.
Civil Court
Civil proceedings in Scotland are primarily handled through Sheriff Courts for smaller claims and the Court of Session for more complex matters. These courts deal with disputes between individuals, businesses, and contractual issues.
Choose a topic
Legal information for Scotland
Criminal lawArrest, police interviews and court proceedings→Family lawSeparation, children and financial arrangements→Employment lawDismissal, discrimination and tribunal time limits→Drink drivingLimits, procedure, penalties and urgent next steps→Immigration lawVisas, appeals, asylum and detention→Civil lawClaims, disputes and court procedure→
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Common questions
Legal questions in Scotland
Am I eligible for legal aid in Scotland?
Legal aid eligibility depends on your income, capital, and case type. The Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) assesses applications. Generally, those on benefits or low incomes qualify, but criteria vary for different legal matters.
What happens if I'm charged with drink driving in Scotland?
You'll likely face court proceedings at the Sheriff Court. Penalties include driving bans, fines, or imprisonment depending on alcohol levels. Contact a solicitor immediately as there may be defences available to your case.
How does family law work in Scotland?
Scottish family law covers divorce, child custody, and financial settlements. Scotland has different procedures from England, including simplified divorce processes. Sheriff Courts handle most family matters, with mediation often encouraged before court proceedings.
What are my employment rights in Scotland?
You have rights to fair wages, safe working conditions, and protection from discrimination. Scottish employment law largely follows UK-wide legislation, but some aspects differ. Employment Tribunals handle workplace disputes and unfair dismissal claims.
How does the Sheriff Court system work in Scotland?
Sheriff Courts are local courts handling most legal matters. There are 39 Sheriff Courts across Scotland, each covering specific geographical areas. They deal with civil cases up to £100,000 and most criminal prosecutions.
What makes Scots law different from English law?
Scots law has distinct origins in Roman and civil law traditions. Key differences include different court structures, legal procedures, property law, and criminal law principles. Scotland has separate legal education and professional requirements for solicitors.
These answers are general information, not advice about your circumstances. Rules and time limits can change.
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