JURY DUTY IN SCOTLAND OPENED TO PEOPLE OVER 65

10 January 2011

People over the age of 65 will be eligible to take part in jury service from 10 January 2011 as key changes to modernise Scots law come into force.

Since 1980, an upper age limit for jury duty has been imposed in Scotland which has prohibited those over the age of 65 from serving. However, Ministers believe that the system is outdated, ageist and fails to recognise the added life experience and perspective that Scots over the age of 65 can offer.

Now, following unanimous approval by the Scottish Parliament, the upper age limit for jury service has been abolished. The move will increase the pool of potential jurors available to Scotland's courts and ease the burden on younger members of the public who may have to juggle family and work commitments.

Read more from the Scottish government.