sheriff court

In Scottish law, the sheriff court is a fundamental judicial institution. It functions as the ordinary court for civil matters and also handles small debt cases and criminal proceedings. Since 1913, its civil jurisdiction has expanded significantly, encompassing almost all actions, with notable exceptions such as cases involving marriage status, divorce, legitimacy, reductions, and company liquidations where paid-up capital exceeds £10,000. While sheriffs can try lesser offenses, their sentencing power in criminal cases is limited to a maximum of two years' imprisonment.1

The sheriff court has ancient roots, dating back to the 12th century. Scotland is divided into sheriffdoms, each served by a sheriff-principal and several full-time sheriffs who preside over courts in major towns. In civil cases, the sheriff typically makes decisions alone, though juries are sometimes used. For criminal cases, trials can be summary or involve a jury of 15. Appeals from the sheriff court can be made to the sheriff-principal or directly to the Court of Session.2