Criminal Defence

Our solicitors and solicitor advocates provide the highest standards of court and trial advocacy. With experience across the Sheriff Court, High Court of Justiciary and Appeal Court, we prepare cases to trial standard from the outset and provide focused advice on appeals where conviction or sentence is challenged. Our work includes:

• making representations to prosecutors to try to stop prosecutions;
• preparing a trial strategy;
• working with experts to present evidence in its best light;
• diligent preparation to identify key evidence and witnesses; and
• challenging prosecution witnesses and evidence where it is not admissible.

Our criminal defence lawyers provide expert guidance and robust support during police interviews and other formal questioning. We ensure the legal rights of our clients are fully protected from the outset, advising on the process, options, and the best course of action. Our experienced team will be there throughout the interview, helping to prevent self-incrimination and ensuring fair treatment by the authorities. With a deep understanding of police procedures and criminal law, we work to secure the best possible outcome for every client facing investigation.

We act for individuals facing criminal allegations at summary or solemn level (a distinction that shapes how cases in Scotland are tried and the level of penalty that can be imposed) including High Court prosecutions. Our work includes cases involving forensic evidence, complex disclosure and vulnerable or key witnesses. We prepare every case thoroughly, challenging the prosecution evidence and ensuring the full context is properly considered. We also represent complainers, witnesses and other parties.

Allegations of domestic abuse or sexual offences can be overwhelming and carry immediate personal and professional consequences. We act with discretion and care, analysing the evidence, protecting your rights at interview and throughout proceedings, and advising on related issues such as bail conditions, non harassment orders, digital evidence and parallel proceedings.

We advise clients facing fraud, financial crime and business crime allegations where reputational risk is high. Our experience includes fraud, money laundering, embezzlement, proceeds of crime and complex regulatory offences. We focus on early analysis of the evidence, careful management of disclosure and a clear defence strategy, often seeking to resolve matters before charge or limit wider impact.

We act in road traffic cases ranging from careless or dangerous driving to fatal accident investigations and prosecutions. These cases often depend on technical evidence such as collision reconstruction, vehicle data and medical causation. We ensure expert evidence is identified early so informed decisions can be taken on charge, plea or trial.

Criminal allegations can lead to investigations by professional and regulatory bodies. We advise on how criminal proceedings interact with disciplinary processes, including reporting obligations, information requests and protection of privilege. We work closely with employment and regulatory specialists to protect your position and reputation.

Our specialist legal team provides clear, sensitive advice to young people, including students and older school pupils, regarding offences connected to relationships – such as sexual offences and domestic offences involving partners, girlfriends, boyfriends, or former partners. We guide our clients through the complexities of the law, to ensure their rights are protected and to help them understand their options if facing investigation or allegations. Our approach is supportive and confidential, aimed at safeguarding futures and providing reassurance during challenging circumstances.