To mark the historic moment, an event organised by the court’s staff was held recently which was attended by local Sheriffs and justice partners.

A plaque, was unveiled at the event, will be installed within the court building at a later date.

Displays for the event were created, which tell the story of this significant building, featuring newspaper articles and interesting court cases. They worked closely with colleagues from SCTS Library Services at Parliament House and the local library in Dumbarton to find articles and photographs which illustrate its place in the town’s history.

At the event, Sheriff Principal Murphy and senior Sheriff, Sheriff Gallacher, spoke about their connections with Dumbarton Sheriff Court.

Sheriff Principal Murphy said:

“The old sheriff court and cells in Dumbarton in the burgh tollbooth on the High Street were so dilapidated by the early 19th century that a new sheriff court was commissioned. The foundation stone of the building, designed by the celebrated Scottish architect James Gillespie Graham, was laid on 19th July 1824 and the neoclassical building was completed in 1826.

“At various times over the last two centuries it has served not just as a courthouse but also as the seat of Dunbartonshire County Council and as the headquarters of the local police force. Since 1965 it has exclusively served as the Sheriff and Justice of the Peace Court and it was extensively modernised in 2009. The High Court also sits here from time to time.

“It is an admirable and impressive court building which has been well-served by excellent staff, sheriffs and lawyers over the years. It is one of the most popular sheriff courts amongst the legal profession. May it continue to serve the local community for the next 200 years.”

The information boards will be on display at the court’s Doors Open Day event on Saturday 14 September, 10am to 2pm.