FILMING criminal courts allows justice to be seen to be done and will be extended, but Scotland is still a world away from the US-style show trial "soap operas", according to one expert.

The landmark televising of the Gilroy sentencing was approved by Lord Hamilton, Scotland's most senior judge, after an application by STV, which had been pressing for greater access to courtrooms – a change also being considered south of the Border.

But, unlike in American courts, the camera focused yesterday on Lord Bracadale as he gave his sentence and no-one else featured in the footage except the macer and the clerk.

Gilroy was not filmed and the footage was released after a brief check during which any noise from the court could be edited.

Professor Peter Duff, who specialises in criminal justice, evidence and procedure at Aberdeen University law school, said he believed it was a positive move.

He said: "The benefit of showing the sentence is clear. The courts are anxious to open up and allow people to see the process of accountability. The idea is by wider opening up of the courts it would give the public more confidence in the system."

But the prospect has sparked concern among some legal experts, who have warned that the presence of cameras could "pollute and corrupt" the process of justice.

Mr Duff said: "It is almost certain that this is not Scotland heading towards the OJ Simpson-style show trial soap operas. There would be difficulties (in US-style filming) for numerous reasons, including anonymity.

"The permission that was given this time was very strict and the accused could not be shown."

While the Gilroy sentencing was the first criminal case to be televised in the UK, appeal cases have been filmed.

A production company wants to film a documentary of proceedings in the case involving Nat Fraser, 53, who is charged with the murder of Arlene Fraser, of Elgin, Moray, in 1998 and is due to stand trial later this month.