Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service
The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) is an independent body responsible for managing Scotland's courts and tribunals. It was established in 2010 under the Judiciary and Courts (Scotland) Act 2008 to support the Scottish judiciary and ensure the efficient administration of justice. The SCTS provides services for the Court of Session, High Court of Justiciary, Sheriff Court, Justice of the Peace Court, and various tribunals.[1]
| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 2010 |
| Jurisdiction | Scotland |
| Headquarters | SCTS Headquarters, 1A Parliament Square, Edinburgh, EH1 1RF |
| Employees | Approx. 1,500 |
| Annual budget | £153 million (2022–2023) |
| Minister responsible |
|
| Agency executive |
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| Parent department | Scottish Government |
| Website | scotcourts.gov.uk |
Responsibilities
change- Providing administrative support to all courts and tribunals in Scotland.
- Ensuring access to justice for all individuals, including accommodations for persons with disabilities.
- Managing court buildings and facilities.[2]
- Maintaining the security of courts in partnership with Police Scotland.
- Supporting the judiciary, including the Lord President of the Court of Session, who also serves as the head of the SCTS Board.
Governance
changeThe SCTS is governed by a board chaired by the Lord President of the Court of Session, the most senior judge in Scotland. Other board members include judicial representatives, tribunal members, and lay members with expertise in finance, business, and public administration.
The Chief Executive, Eric McQueen, oversees daily operations and implements the board's strategic vision.[3]
Court Network
change- Superior Courts: Court of Session, High Court of Justiciary.
- Sheriff Courts: Scotland's primary local courts for civil and criminal cases.
- Justice of the Peace Courts:** Handle minor criminal offenses.
- Tribunals: Including the Lands Tribunal for Scotland and the Housing and Property Chamber.
Digital Transformation
change- Digital case management systems.
- Remote hearing technology, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Online payment systems for fines and fees.
Independence
changeAlthough the SCTS works closely with the Scottish Government, it operates independently to ensure judicial impartiality and uphold the rule of law.
Budget
changeFor the financial year 2022–2023, the SCTS had an allocated budget of £153 million, used to maintain court operations, facilities, and staff salaries.