No vote by the full Senate -- the last step in confirmation -- has been scheduled, but Obama said he wants Sotomayor on the high court in time for the start of its next session in September.

CNN: Sotomayor's confirmation hearing starts Monday

The regional court was in session at the time of the attack, witnesses said.

CNN: Militants' attack kills 29 at Somali courthouse

Mr Cowan, a former water quality manager who was 61 at the time, raised an action seeking compensation at the Court of Session in Edinburgh against the Hopetoun House Preservation Trust and trustees including the Marquess of Linlithgow.

BBC: Hopetoun House