Sheriff Lindsay Wood

Sheriff Lindsay Wood, who visited the Belfast Substance Misuse Court with two other sheriffs in 2021, died following a short illness, our sister publication Scottish Legal News reports.

A graduate of the University of Dundee, he became managing partner of Scottish law firm Thorntons in 1998 before being persuaded to apply to become a part-time sheriff. He became a full-time sheriff in 2003 and was invited to preside in Glasgow.

He was instrumental in the success of the Glasgow Drug Court, which launched in 2001. He also helped Norway and France set up their own drug courts.

His judicial career came to an end with his retirement in May 2023.

Paying tribute, Sheriff Principal Aisha Anwar of Glasgow and Strathkelvin said: “His appointment as Sheriff at Glasgow meant a great deal to him. His contribution to Glasgow Sheriff Court cannot be over-stated.

“From his ground-breaking work in the drugs court to his deep concern for the welfare of sheriffs and staff, he had an ability to make everyone feel valued.

“The high regard in which he was held by all was demonstrated by the large numbers who attended and paid tribute to him during his retirement drinks last year. He was touched and humbled by the kind words and the gratitude expressed for his years of service. Our thoughts are very much with his family and all those who knew and worked with him.”