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Last updated : 3 October 2008 13:53 PM

Way Forward Announced for Court Unification on Grampian, Highland and Islands (GH&I)

Following recent consultation, the Scottish Court Service (SCS) has announced its decision on court unification proposals for Grampian Highland and Islands (GH&I) to deliver efficient and integrated Justice of the Peace (JP) court services for the area.

Under reforms to the summary justice system, district courts, currently operated by local authorities, will become JP courts operated by the SCS. The establishment of a unified courts administration will create an enhanced level of service and include the provision of modern technology to the new JP courts.

The implementation date set for court unification in GH&I is 2 June 2008. From that date, new JP courts will operate under SCS in Aberdeen, Banff, Dingwall, Dornoch, Elgin, Fort William, Inverness, Portree, Peterhead, Stonehaven, Stornoway, Tain and Wick. Business from Inverurie District Court will transfer to the new Aberdeen JP Court and business from Nairn District Court and Kingussie District Court will be heard in the new JP Court in Inverness.

Chief Executive of the Scottish Court Service, Eleanor Emberson, said:
"I am pleased that from 2 June next year, SCS will be providing support to the JP courts as well as Sheriff and High Courts in GH&I. We want to provide the best possible quality of facilities and support to all the courts."

Click on this link for a copy of the full news release.

Click on this link for a copy of "Delivering a Unified Courts Administration in Grampian, Highland and Islands Sheriffdom"

For further information contact: Brian McBride Project Manager, Court Unification 0131 240 6658