In the summer of 1580, Anne Gib, a resident of Montrose in Forfar, found herself entangled in the tumultuous wave of witch trials that swept through Scotland during this period. Montrose, although geographically within the bounds of the Brechin presbytery, was still consolidating its ecclesiastical affiliations, which posed unique challenges to the administration of justice. The Laird of Dunipace's involvement in Anne's case highlights the mingling of local and broader networks of authority—a common feature of these trials, as influential figures often played pivotal roles in bringing such cases to the attention of church and civil authorities.
The specific details of the accusations against Anne are not meticulously documented, as was often the case with the trials during this time. However, the record from July 30, 1580, signifies that her trial proceeded under jurisdictional complexity, with ecclesiastical figures such as the presbytery being central to the initial proceedings. This was indicative of the era when religious bodies held substantial sway in matters of witchcraft allegations, often resulting in individuals like Anne being brought to trial based largely on the interpretations and concerns of local Presbyterian structures and influential lairds. The intertwined nature of ecclesiastical and secular authority meant that trials could carry both religious and communal implications, affecting not only the accused but the social fabric of the area.