Legal Matters Scotland
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18th September 2025

A free early morning round up of news for legal professionals across Scotland.
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THE LAW
Scotland's not proven verdict to be scrapped
MSPs have voted to abolish Scotland's centuries-old 'not proven' verdict as part of sweeping justice reforms. The change, passed by 71 votes to 46 within the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill, marks a major shift in the legal system. The reforms will also raise the threshold for jury convictions and introduce a dedicated sexual offences court. Other measures include a victims and witnesses commissioner, stricter rules on complainers’ sexual history, and stronger parole conditions for murderers who withhold victims' remains. A pilot giving sexual assault victims free access to court transcripts will also become permanent. The Law Society of Scotland welcomed some changes, such as automatic lifelong anonymity for victims, but cautioned that untested reforms could increase miscarriages of justice, noting Scotland will now allow convictions even when several jurors have significant doubts.
MSPs extend rape shield laws
Scottish MSPs voted 63 to 48 to extend rape shield laws, amending Sections 274 and 275 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995. Justice Secretary Angela Constance introduced the amendment to close a legal loophole. The changes will now protect "docket witnesses or complainers," whose evidence can support the victim's case. Liam Kerr, a Conservative MSP, argued that the rushed nature of the amendment could potentially undermine the strength of evidence. Constance defended the amendment, asserting that it maintains protections for both victims and accused individuals.

Strengthening Legal CPD in Scotland – Denovo's Partnership with RFPG

Denovo have partnered with the Royal Faculty of Procurators in Glasgow (RFPG) to support their renowned CPD Education Programme. This collaboration reflects Denovo's commitment to helping the Scottish legal community stay ahead in a profession that’s constantly evolving.
As part of the programme, Denovo will be delivering an exclusive seminar on AML & Risk Management this October, showcasing practical tools, expert insights, and the latest technology to help firms strengthen compliance and save time.

Read on to discover more about the partnership, the event, and how Denovo are working with RFPG to support legal practitioners across Scotland.

 
INDUSTRY
MSPs call for urgent reform of legal aid system
A Holyrood committee has warned that Scotland's legal aid system is in crisis, with swathes of the country left as "legal deserts" where vulnerable people cannot secure representation. The Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee found low pay, excessive bureaucracy and outdated eligibility rules were deterring solicitors and leaving thousands without access to justice, with some people forced to travel more than 150 miles or represent themselves in court. Evidence from charities and legal bodies described survivors of domestic abuse being denied aid, while lawyers reported unsustainable workloads and haggling with the Scottish Legal Aid Board over trivial sums. The cross-party committee criticised the lack of promised legislation since the 2018 Evans Review, calling the delay "a considerable disappointment," and urged urgent reform to funding, bureaucracy and eligibility rules to restore confidence in the system.
Emma Caldwell family feel 'betrayed' over death inquiry
The family of Emma Caldwell, murdered in 2005, say they feel "betrayed" after discovering that draft terms of reference for the public inquiry into her death were drawn up without their input, despite earlier assurances they would be consulted. They criticised the Scottish Government after learning the draft had already been circulated to other parties, describing the process as another source of disappointment and fatigue following years of delays. Caldwell’s killer, Iain Packer, was only convicted last year, nearly two decades after the initial investigation was criticised for serious failings. The family's lawyer, Aamer Anwar, said. "The family feel sadly patronised by those within the justice department and treated like a box-ticking exercise."
Lawyer shortage hits life sciences sector
The UK life sciences sector is facing a significant shortage of lawyers, according to the Q2 2025 report from recruiter Major, Lindsey & Africa. The report highlights a growing need for legal expertise in regulatory, compliance, and intellectual property matters, particularly as businesses navigate new AI regulations.  The report notes that UK companies are prioritising tech-savvy legal professionals and emphasising collaborative skills. It also warns that senior in-house lawyers are experiencing burnout due to increased workloads.



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CASES
Nurse sues brother over dismissal
Anika Moughal, a nurse, is suing her brother, Dr Mohammed Moughal, for unfair dismissal after he allegedly failed to clearly inform her of her termination from Greenlaw Medical Practice. During an employment tribunal in Glasgow, she claimed his ambiguous language left her unaware of her sacking. Dr Moughal said he intended to "soften the blow" due to her pregnancy but admitted he may not have communicated the termination effectively.
'Kingdom of Kubala' facing new eviction notice
Scottish Borders Council has initiated legal action to evict the Kingdom of Kubala, a self-styled tribe that recently relocated after being removed from private land near Jedburgh. The group, led by Kofi Offeh, claims to be reclaiming ancestral land. Following a sheriff's eviction order, the council said: "As this new location is council-owned, we have commenced legal proceedings." Deputy leader Scott Hamilton emphasised that "nobody is above the law" and that the council will continue to act in the interests of public safety. The group has expressed defiance, stating: "The Kingdom of Kubala can never be destroyed."
PRISONS
Conditions in Glasgow prison 'shameful', says senior prisons official
HMP Barlinnie in Glasgow is currently operating at 140% capacity, leading to "shameful" conditions, according to Linda Pollock, deputy chief executive of the Scottish Prison Service. Overcrowding has raised concerns about potential human rights violations, as prisoners are forced to share cells. The Victorian facility is set to be replaced by a £1bn prison with improved capacity.
EMPLOYMENT
Employment Rights Bill will damage jobs market, businesses warn
The Government has been warned that the Employment Rights Bill must be changed to prevent a crisis in the jobs market, with business groups voicing concern over the potential impact on hiring. In a letter to Business Secretary Peter Kyle, the British Chambers of Commerce, Make UK, the Confederation of British Industry and the Institute of Directors said a clampdown on zero hours contracts could hinder firms’ capacity to offer flexible working. They also warned that new rights over strikes could lead to "deteriorating industrial relations" and question reforms that will give workers the right to sue for unfair dismissal from the first day of their employment. Sources say that while the Federation of Small Businesses did not sign the letter, it agrees with the complaints.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Inverclyde Council probes leak of port funding
Inverclyde Council has launched an internal inquiry after details of a planned £2.99m investment in the private Inchgreen port, part of a wider regeneration effort, were leaked. The council says the information was commercially sensitive and shared only with elected members to protect future investment opportunities, while emphasising that all spending is scrutinised and approved internally. Campaigners argue that public funds are being invested in the site while Peel Ports has contributed little of its own money, though the council highlights that the funding aims to create jobs and attract businesses to the area. The council maintains that the project is part of broader efforts to develop Inchgreen Marine Park and promote economic growth in Inverclyde.
CRIME
Major Scottish gangland figures arrested in Dubai
Four of Scotland's most notorious gangland figures - Steven Lyons, Ross McGill, Stephen Jamieson and Steven Larwood - have been arrested in Dubai. Police Scotland link the men to drug trafficking and a violent feud between rival gangs in Glasgow and Edinburgh, which has fuelled shootings, assaults and firebombings since March. Detectives have been sharing intelligence with UAE authorities, though it is unclear if Scottish officers were alerted to the raids or if extradition will follow.
ECONOMY
Inflation remains at 3.8%
Inflation came in at 3.8% in the year to August, figures from the Office for National Statistics show, with this matching the rate recorded in July. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said she is "determined" to get costs down, adding: “I know families are finding it tough and that for many the economy feels stuck.” Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride said Labour's tax policies are "stoking inflation," saying: “With borrowing costs hitting a 27-year high, working people and businesses are bracing for even more tax rises to pay for Labour’s mismanagement." 
 


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