Scottish DR: courts and civil procedure

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This subtopic provides guidance on the civil court structure in Scotland, jurisdiction, pre-action communications and the various forms of civil procedure available in Scotland.

For guidance on other key aspects of Scottish civil litigation, see the following overviews, which link through to more detailed guidance:

  1. •

    Scottish DR: key developments—overview

  2. •

    Scottish DR: courts and civil procedure—overview

  3. •

    Scottish DR: prescription and limitation—overview

  4. •

    Scottish DR: starting a claim—overview

  5. •

    Scottish DR: case management and evidence—overview

  6. •

    Scottish DR: expenses and funding—overview

  7. •

    Scottish DR: civil appeals and judicial review—overview

  8. •

    Scottish DR: claims and remedies—overview

  9. •

    Scottish DR: enforcement—overview

  10. •

    Scottish DR: settlement and ADR—overview

Courts and jurisdiction

GuidanceContent
Practice Note: Civil court structure in ScotlandProvides an overview of the court structure for civil cases in Scotland. This guidance covers the UK Supreme Court, the Court of Session, the Sheriff Appeal Court and the Sheriff Courts. It summarises the role of each court, how they are constituted and their jurisdiction. It also considers the procedural rules applicable in each court, the binding nature of their judgments and how to appeal them
Flowchart: Civil

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UK Supreme Court unveils new digital platform to modernise court processes

The UK Supreme Court (UKSC) and Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC) are set to launch new websites and a Case Management Portal on 4 December 2024. This digital transformation, part of a three year change programme, aims to revolutionise user interaction with the courts. The new system will enable digital filing of court documents, real-time case tracking and improved accessibility for all users, including litigants in person. The initiative, developed in collaboration with Capgemini and Q5, has undergone extensive user testing and is designed to enhance both judicial functions and educational outreach. This modernisation effort seeks to establish the UKSC and JCPC as world-leading, transparent and user-centric judicial institutions.

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