CAS response to SCJC Rules Covering the Mode of Attendance at Court Hearings

This consultation seeks views on proposed new rules covering the most appropriate mode of attendance at civil court hearings in the Court of Session and in the sheriff courts. The proposed new rules are intended to provide a general presumption as to:

• the types of hearings generally considered suitable for an in-person hearing;
• the types of hearings generally considered suitable for a attendance by electronic means;
• how the parties can apply to change the mode of attendance if an individual’s circumstances justify a departure from the general presumption; and
• how the court can direct a change in the mode of attendance if that is required in the interests of justice.