The installation ceremony took place at the Court of Session today following Lord Pentland’s appointment by His Majesty The King.

During the ceremony, the royal warrant appointing Lord Pentland as head of Scotland’s judiciary was read to the court before Lord Malcolm administered the Oath of Allegiance and the Judicial Oath.

Lord Pentland then took his place on the bench.

Lord Malcolm said: “It is an honour to oversee the installation of our new Lord President, Lord Pentland. His lordship has had a distinguished career in law and his vast knowledge and experience will serve him well as he takes up post as head of the judiciary.

“My fellow judges and I offer the Lord President our continued support and commitment and wish him well in his new role.”

Lord Pentland gave a brief speech to the court, emphasising the importance of the independence of the judiciary.

He said: “The solemn oaths I have just taken on my appointment as Lord President of the Court of Session enshrine the fundamental values underpinning the judiciary: independence, impartiality and support for the rule of law. Every judge in Scotland, in each of our courts and tribunals, commits themselves when assuming judicial office to upholding these values. I renew my own dedication to them today.

“The independence of judges, who deal with every case without fear or favour, affection or ill-will, is one of the pillars on which a stable democracy rests.”

Lord Pentland also paid tribute to his predecessor, Lord Carloway, as well as the Lord Justice Clerk, Lady Dorrian, who both retire from office today.

He highlighted the work they have done to ensure the courts continue to meet the expectations of a modern society while maintaining the fundamental values of the justice system.

Confirming his commitment to continue on this path, he spoke about openness, modernisation, collaboration and the protection of vulnerable people.

“Many of those who come into contact with our courts are vulnerable and have been the victims of traumatic experiences,” he said.

“We must understand and, to the greatest extent possible, protect such people, whoever they are: parties, victims or witnesses. We must continue to build on solid progress already made in introducing trauma-informed practice across our courts, tribunals and the office of the public guardian.”

Lord Pentland added: “I look forward to working closely with judicial colleagues, government, all parts of the legal profession and other justice partners to advance the aims of greater openness and improvement of our services to the public.

“While there will be challenges ahead, I am optimistic about the future of the Scottish legal system. I have every confidence in the integrity and professionalism of our independent courts, justice system and legal profession.”