1 Change and the justice system
There have been a number of changes within the legal system over the past few years. Some have been aimed at making the process of bringing a case more streamlined and accessible utilising technological advances. Others have been targeted around cost reduction and promoting greater efficiency, for example digitised case management systems and fee increases. Further changes with the development of artificial intelligence and the possibility of using algorithms to create systems for managing aspects of specialised practice such as conveyancing are being discussed. These all have an impact on the work of lawyers, the courts and the role played by the justice system in society. In Scotland the justice system is seen as key to achieving a flourishing society which leads the way in the protection of rights and the resolution of disputes.
Our vision is of a justice system that helps Scotland flourish, creates an inclusive and respectful society where all people live in safety and security, where individual and collective rights are supported and disputes are resolved fairly and swiftly.
Upholding the law and protecting society are essential to help people lead productive lives in safe and secure communities and contribute to a flourishing economy in Scotland.
You should now watch the following two videos. In the first Scott Manson reflects on the role of justice and the law in Scotland, in the second Craig McKerracher reflects on law and its role in society.
Having worked your way through this course you should now be more familiar with both the civil and criminal justice systems in Scotland. In Activity 1 you will have the opportunity to reflect on what you have learnt.
Images associated with the legal system
 Figure 1 Judges |  Figure 2 Prison |
 Figure 3 Bute House, Edinburgh |  Figure 4 Digital justice in Scotland |
Activity 1 Thoughts about the legal justice system
Reflect on your studies of this course and note down your own thoughts and perceptions as to what the justice system may look like in the future and the challenges it faces. Have these changed as a result of your studies?
Discussion
There have been a number of changes within the legal system over the past few years. Some of these have been aimed at making the process more streamlined and accessible, for example, new simplified procedures (Simple Procedure). Other such as the reduction in legal aid, case management systems and fee increases have been targeted at reducing costs in the system and efficiency in the process of obtaining justice.
OpenLearn - Scottish courts and the law
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