Observing hearings for training

The Guidance Note on the Attendance of Staff and others at Tribunal hearings provides information as to who may attend a tribunal (including observers) and explains how to obtain permission from the President to observe a tribunal hearing. The Tribunal requires everyone observing, no matter their occupation, to seek permission in advance.

All hearing observation requests must be made via email to Fiona Queen, Executive Assistant to the President, at mhtspresidentsoffice@scotcourtstribunals.gov.uk, and should include the following information:

• date and time of the hearing
• casework reference number pertaining to the hearing
• observer's name and job title
• reason for the request; and
• (if applicable) who the observer is observing or working with.

A minimum of 2 working days' notice requires to be given to the President's Office for any observation request.

It should be noted that the President will not grant permission to observe a hearing to any person under 18 years of age or for the observation of Child/Adolescent hearings.