A day in the life of ...

The work of judges in Scotland is demanding and varied – from sheriffs and justices of the peace dealing with a diverse range of cases in a single day to senators presiding over complex and sometimes lengthy hearings in the Court of Session or High Court. And it involves considerable work outside the courtroom as well as sitting on the Bench. Members of the judiciary write here about their working lives.

An Inner House judge

Find out what a typical day in the life of an Inner House judge is like.

An Outer House Judge

Read about the range of work that an Outer House undertakes.

A Sheriff Principal

Find out about the range of work that a sheriff principal has to undertake

A Sheriff

Read more about the life a sheriff in a busy city court.

A Justice of the Peace

Read about the work of a justice of the peace during a day in court

The Scottish Court Service

The Scottish Court Service (SCS) is responsible for providing the staff, buildings and technology to support Scotland’s courts, the work of the independent judiciary, the courts’ Rules Councils and the Office of the Public Guardian. The Board of the Scottish Court Service is chaired by the Lord President. Visit the SCS website www.scotcourts.gov.uk for details of daily court business including court locations, contact numbers, rules, guidance and advice for both professional users and members of the public.

Find out more about attending court

Stay up-to-date with us