This free course, Scottish courts and the law, explores the role, function and purpose of the courts in Scotland and their relationship with the law. You consider the way in which cases come to court, the difference between the criminal and civil justice systems, the separation of powers, how individuals may become involved with the court system, the alternatives to courts that have evolved in recent decades and future advances that are being considered. You learn about the work of lawyers and the judiciary and explore how Scottish courts and tribunals operate in an open and transparent way working to ensure justice.

After completing this course, you will be able to:

• understand the structure and jurisdiction of the Scottish court system
• understand the relationship between different types of court in Scotland
• understand the role of personnel within the court system
• understand why methods of adjudication such as courts exist.