Access To Trail Records

[dotcom999]

I would like to be able to read the trail papers of a case in Scotland back in 1999. It was a murder trail, and I dont know where to start looking,or who to speak to about this.

[Buenchico]

As IAP states, the full court records aren't made available to the public. The court register is a public document but this only shows the 'bare bones' of a case (e.g. "On 10 June, 1999, Fred Bloggs was convicted of .... and sentenced to .......").

The best place to find some details of a murder trial is in the files of a local newspaper. If you live in the area where the trial took place (or where the murder occurred, if different), just head to the main reference library for the area. They should have copies of the local newspapers (possibly on microfiche or digital storage) going back for well over 100 years.

If you live nearer to Edinburgh than to the location of the murder and/or trial, try the National Library of Scotland.

If you don't live in Scotland, try contacting the British Library. They should also hold copies of the relevant newspapers.

Chris

[dotcom999]

Thanks both of you, I will try your suggestions, I dont live in Scotland now, and the reason I want to find out about this is, my daughter had a very severe breakdown when her partner was murdered, in 1998 and is still in hospital now. She has never spoke about the trial, I only know the basic facts, the rest I need to know because she has now started to ask me things I dont have any answers to.. I cant ask her partners family,as we dont have contact anymore and I dont feel comfortable raking it all back up with his family.

[dotcom999]

Thanks again I have now been told I can have a copy of the trail inditment and minuites from the supreme court in Edinburgh

[dotcom999]

Cheers I.A.P You are right about the closure (horrible phrase), but I know what you mean. Again thanks it felt good getting that email from the courts this morning.