A bailie or baillie is a civic officer in the local government of Scotland. The position arose in the burghs, where bailies formerly held a post similar to that of an alderman or magistrate (see bailiff). Baillies appointed the high constables in Edinburgh, Leith and Perth. Modern bailies exist in Scottish local councils, and the position being a courtesy title, appointees are often requested to provide support to the lord provost or provost - the ceremonial and civic head of the council - in their various engagements.

History

The name was derived from Old French and used to be synonymous with provost. Several officials held this role often at the appointment of the Church. The jurisdiction of a bailie is called a bailiary (alt. bailiery). The office of bailie was abolished in law in Scotland in 1975, and today the position of bailie is a courtesy title.

Use

Notable Scottish bailies

As a title

As a surname

Outside of government

Scottish barons often appointed a Bailie as their judicial officer.