Security staff brought in to protect court users

Solicitors complain about intimidation and drunkenness at Alloa Sheriff Court

News, 15 March 2007

Security guards have been brought in to protect lawyers and witnesses at Alloa Sheriff Court following complaints of intimidation.

Solicitors say that the court is the most violent in Scotland and offers no protection to those visiting the court from youths who gather around the court entrance, often under the influence of drink or drugs. There are also no rooms for solicitors to conduct interviews and no waiting rooms for witnesses. Now Reliance staff equipped with metal detectors have begun guarding the doors of the courthouse.

One lawyer has been quoted describing the court as a "human zoo".

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