Documents relating to the legal affairs of the Burgh of Perth

Scope and Content
General papers, 1442-1870; Papers relating to disputes between Perth and Dundee, 1581-1817; Letters to the town clerk of Perth relating to the burgh’s legal affairs and to private clients, 1709-1779; Minute books of Perth Sheriff Court, 1718-1736; Criminal processes, 1681-1817; Papers relating to executions, 1693-1823; Petitions, 1691-1820; Processes, 1646-1902; Service of heirs claims etc, 1648, 1690-1860; Sequestrations, 1780-1887; Warrants and decreets, 1614-1800; Warrants of processes, 1690-1831; Warrants of the register of deeds, 1600-1871; Sentences and death warrants, petitions for commutation of sentence to transportation, papers relating to transportation of convicts, 1696-1834.
Administrative / Biographical History
Burgh courts were presided over by bailies and had jurisdiction over petty offences and small debts until 1975 when they were abolished and their functions transferred to district courts. The magistrates of the burgh also had the duty of carrying out sentences passed by courts other than the burgh court. The town clerks and their deputes had a central role in the administration of the burgh court.
Access Information
Subject to physical condition
Conditions Governing Use
Reproduction is available subject to preservation requirements, copyright and data protection restrictions. Charges are made for this service. Applications should be made to Archive staff.