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Debates around the role of the Supreme Court and devolution continue, particularly as Scotland navigates questions around independence, human rights, and legislative autonomy.

As technology continues to shape the legal landscape, it is likely that the design of law courts in the UK will continue to adapt, reflecting both the demands of the legal system and the expectations of the public.

The rise of digital technology in courtrooms has led to the creation of ”virtual courts,” where proceedings can take place entirely online.

These innovations became especially critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, when remote hearings ensured continuity in legal processes.

Cases here are heard by a judge and, in most trials, a jury of fifteen people—a number that is distinctive compared to other UK jurisdictions.

However, recent court design has shifted away from this monumental style. The tradition of law courts in the UK is deeply rooted in architecture.

The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service has invested in digital transformation, allowing for online case tracking, virtual hearings, and electronic documentation. One of the most important considerations in the design of a modern court is accessibility. It’s not just about being listed — it’s about being listed correctly.

In addition to the courtroom itself, the overall layout of the court building is designed with the flow of cases in mind. These buildings, which date back to the 19th century, are characterized by their Gothic Revival style, featuring tall spires, intricate stonework, and majestic entrances.

The Scottish Parliament also has the power to create new laws in devolved areas, which means Scottish courts may interpret and enforce statutes differently from their counterparts in England and Wales.

From the historical grandeur of traditional court buildings to the modern, accessible, and technologically advanced designs of today, court architecture plays an important role in ensuring that justice is accessible, fair, and efficient. The design of these courts has evolved over centuries, from grand historical buildings to modern structures that reflect the need for efficiency, accessibility, and security.

Above the Sheriff Courts is the High Court of Justiciary, Scotland’s top-level criminal court.

The design of such courts was meant to project the authority and dignity of the law, reinforcing the seriousness and importance of legal proceedings. These changes reflect the recognition that courts must be places of equal access for all citizens, ensuring that no one is excluded from the judicial process due to physical limitations.

These features are essential in ensuring that court cases can proceed efficiently and that people are not kept waiting for long periods in uncomfortable conditions. Today, there is a growing focus on creating courts that are not only functional but also accessible. Modernisation of the court system has also been a focus in recent years. It deals with the most serious crimes, such as murder, rape, and major drug offences.

Modern courts are often organized in a way that facilitates the smooth movement of people through the building. This has led to the incorporation of accessible features in many new court buildings. Courts are not only places where legal matters are decided, but they are also symbols of authority, justice, and democracy.

This includes the addition of elevators, as well as signage to help people with disabilities navigate the building. It also acts as the court of criminal appeal. To sum up, the design of law courts in the UK is constantly evolving to meet the needs of a changing society.

As a result, some court buildings are now designed with the infrastructure to support both in-person and virtual hearings, with dedicated spaces for video conferencing and other digital technologies.

This includes the use of digital directories to help guide people to the right courtroom, as well as the design of waiting areas that are comfortable and functional.

In many new courts, there are dedicated spaces for people with physical disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible courtrooms, and facilities for those who are hearing or visually impaired.

This trend has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many courts to adopt virtual hearings as a means of continuing legal proceedings while maintaining social distancing. The need for accessibility is one of the primary concerns in modern court design, as courts must be open and usable for everyone, regardless of their physical ability or social background.

Some of the most famous and iconic law courts in the country, such as the Royal Courts of Justice in London, reflect the grandeur and symbolism associated with the legal process.

The UK government has placed a strong emphasis on making sure that all individuals can access court buildings with ease.

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As society continues to change, so too does the way courts are designed to meet the needs of the public and the legal services system.