SNP MSPs in Angus and the Mearns have the power to save Arbroath and Stonehaven courts, it has been claimed.
Mearns MSP Alison McInnes urged local SNP parliamentarians to show their support for local courts after the Scottish Government announced they have approved controversial closure proposals.
The Scottish Court Service recently published its report and recommendations on shaping Scotland’s court services after consideration of responses from the public.
The report recommended the closure of 10 sheriff and seven justice of the peace courts across Scotland.
Mrs McInnes said: “Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill does not care about local courts but it’s time for local SNP MSPs to show that they do.
“They have it in their power to save the local court in their area. Scottish Liberal Democrats believe that justice is best delivered as locally as possible.
“Once again, SNP ministers are ignoring the concerns of local communities. I have serious reservations about the closure of the courts at Stonehaven and Arbroath.
“Shifting cases to Aberdeen and Forfar respectively will cause major inconvenience for people travelling to court. In Stonehaven’s case, that applies especially for those coming from south of the town.
“Add to that the fact the Aberdeen court is already extremely busy and we could soon see a situation where increased delays in the justice process are inevitable.”
Following “careful consideration” of the proposed changes set out by the Scottish Court Service, Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill last week confirmed the Scottish Government has accepted the recommendations and had written to relevant parties to confirm its decision on the proposals.
The Scottish Parliament’s Justice Committee will have the final say later.
The move comes despite warnings from opposition parties and experts that it will erode local justice, result in too much work being channelled to remaining courts and result in delays and inconvenience for victims of crime.
Mr MacAskill said although the Scottish Court Service is independent of the Scottish Government, it is not immune from the same financial pressures.
He added the service estimates the closures and other changes to its operation could save £1 million a year in running costs and £3 million on maintenance.