Two new courts have opened as part of a modernisation programme for Scotland's justice system.
The Criminal Sheriff Appeal Court and Sheriff Personal Injury Court began operating in Edinburgh at the start of the new legal year.
The changes follow recommendations made by former Lord Justice Clerk Lord Gill, who described some of Scotland's courts as "slow, inefficient and expensive".
Other measures coming into force from today include allowing all civil claims below the £100,000 threshold to be dealt with at sheriff court level.
The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) acting chief operations officer David Fraser said: "These reforms are part of the most visionary changes for the courts in more than a century.
"The Sheriff Appeal Court is a new entity entirely, while jurisdiction has altered significantly through the creation of the All-Scotland Personal Injury Court.
"These are historic changes that will bring improvement across the justice system."
The Scottish Government said the new set up will help ensure cases are heard in the right courts, therefore reducing unnecessary delays.
Legal Affairs Minister Paul Wheelhouse said: "If we can encourage earlier resolution of disputes and make more efficient use of court resources, this will improve the public's access to effective justice.
"The Criminal Sheriff Appeal Court will ensure that summary criminal appeals are heard swiftly and efficiently at the appropriate level, reducing the number of criminal appeals which require to be dealt with in the High Court.
"The Sheriff Personal Injury Court will provide a centre of expertise where personal injury claims will be resolved fairly and efficiently, benefiting those involved in these actions."
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