Coronavirus: Scottish Courts to stop taking cases

Courts in Scotland are not starting any new criminal trials until further notice, with the spread of the coronavirus.
By Scott McCartney
Published 17th Mar 2020, 12:04 BST
Updated 17th Mar 2020, 12:05 BST
Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court is among those affected.Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court is among those affected.
Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court is among those affected.

The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service has issued a statement saying that current trials will run to conclusion, but no new cases will be opened.

The statement said: “Based on the Government’s response to coronavirus we are continually reviewing the operation of the courts and tribunals, to ensure that essential services are maintained as far as possible and that we take appropriate measures to protect the health of all court users.

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“As a result from today, March 17, no new criminal jury trials will be commenced or new juries empanelled until further notice. This will be kept under review.

“Where jury trials have already commenced these will run to conclusion of the trial, if practical to do so.

“For jurors cited for trials after today information will be available on jury telephone lines advising them not to attend.

“It is likely that further measures will be announced in the coming days.

“Please continue to regularly check the SCTS website for updates.”