Civil Business in the Courts and Tribunals in Scotland

Up to date to 25 March

Covid-19 is now affecting the operation of civil business in the courts of Scotland. Whilst it is clear that the current circumstances are anything but business as usual, the wheels of justice have only slowed and have not stopped altogether. Normal court business will continue to be dealt with and urgent matters can still be brought to the attention of the courts.

We have set out the overall picture below but if you are concerned about any aspect of your case that is proceeding through the Scottish courts or tribunals, please get in touch with your contact in the dispute resolution team and they’ll explain what impact the current circumstances have on your specific case. The team are still hard at work on all active matters and are able to handle any new queries.

The current picture is likely to change over the coming days and weeks and we will update this page as those changes arise. The general position is that:

• Only urgent or essential business will proceed. All current deadlines and dates will be discharged and fixed again at a later date.
• Most documents can now be lodged electronically if they require to be lodged, including Summons.

• Only urgent or essential business will proceed. All current deadlines and dates will be discharged and fixed again at a later date.
• All documents may now be lodged electronically.

• Only a few Sheriff Courts will now be open: Glasgow; Edinburgh; Dundee; Falkirk; Inverness; Aberdeen; Paisley; Kilmarnock; Hamilton; and Dumfries. These will act as a hub for the other courts in the Sheriffdom.
• Only urgent or essential business will proceed. All current deadlines and dates will be discharged and fixed again at a later date.
• Most documents can now be lodged electronically.

• All hearings and case management conferences are postponed until at least 28 May.

• Closed until further notice.

• All in-person hearings can be converted to a case management hearing by telephone or by electronic means.
• Further directions are likely to be forthcoming.

Disclaimer 
The matter in this publication is based on our current understanding of the law.  The information provides only an overview of the law in force at the date hereof and has been produced for general information purposes only. Professional advice should always be sought before taking any action in reliance of the information. Accordingly, Davidson Chalmers Stewart LLP does not take any responsibility for losses incurred by any person through acting or failing to act on the basis of anything contained in this publication.