Digital Recording of Evidence (Practice Note no. 2 of 2025)

Digital Recording of Evidence PN no. 2 of 2025.pdf

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Message from Sheriff Principal Anwar in relation to Practice note no. 2 of 2025 (Digital Recording of Evidence)

As part of my continued efforts to improve digital services in Glasgow Sheriff Court, I am pleased to now attach Practice Note No 2 of 2025 dealing with the digital recording of evidence.

You will note that digital recording equipment has been installed in all courtrooms in Glasgow Sheriff Court which are used for the purposes of proofs in ordinary actions, including family actions.

With effect from 21 July 2025, parties will not require to instruct a shorthand writer for the purposes of recording evidence for any proof or proof before answer in ordinary or family actions assigned after that date.

It is important that your members discuss the mode of proof with the sheriff before the proof is assigned and in particular in the event that a hybrid or virtual proof is sought, detailed discussions must take place to ensure that all of the arrangements have been made and that the clerks understand how the evidence will be recorded.

If upon a change of circumstances, after the proof has been assigned, a party wishes all or any part of the proof to be conducted by remote means or to arrange for a witness to give evidence by remote means, that party shall require to make a motion to that effect at least 28 days prior to the proof diet. Changes to the mode of proof shortly before or on the morning of the proof will not be accommodated.

I hope that you will agree that this is another step in the right direction in terms of modernising the facilities in Glasgow Sheriff Court and that it is likely to reduce the work for your members in terms of identifying and instructing shorthand writers. It will also reduce costs for your clients.