Legal Matters Scotland
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24th October 2025

A free early morning round up of news for legal professionals across Scotland.
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POLICING
Police watchdog investigating death of 15-year-old Amen Teklay
The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC), is investigating police actions and decision-making prior to the death of 15-year-old Amen Teklay, who was killed in a sword attack in Glasgow on 5 March. Two boys, aged 15 and 16, deny his murder, which followed earlier clashes between Amen and one of the suspects. Court hearings revealed that the attack involved the suspects chasing Amen while wearing masks and using a sword and frying pan, and that an 'Osman' threat-to-life warning had been issued beforehand. Prosecutors also detailed prior incidents in February, including Amen being threatened and assaulted by the 15-year-old suspect and others. PIRC has confirmed it will submit a report to the Crown Office once its investigation concludes.
Woman's car destroyed after police failed to contact her
Police destroyed a woman's car after failing to notify her that it was ready for collection following a crash. She lodged a complaint with the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner, which was upheld by the watchdog. The force has been instructed to review the case and issue a new response. Police Scotland has confirmed it is aware of the review.

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INDUSTRY
Law Society seeks operations chief
The Law Society of Scotland is looking for an executive director of operations to join its senior leadership team. The role involves overseeing finance, HR, IT, and facilities while advancing a digital change programme. The successful candidate will collaborate with the CEO to implement the society's IT and people strategies, ensuring financial plans align with organisational goals. Strong leadership and experience in digital transformation are essential.
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CASES
Former teacher charged with 90 offences
South African former teacher Iain Wares has been charged with 90 sexual offences against schoolboys, including four rapes, after being arrested in his home country. Wares has been accused of abusing dozens of boys during his time at Edinburgh Academy and Fettes College in the 1960s and 1970s. The High Court in South Africa ruled last August that Wares could be extradited to face three charges in Scotland. Wares was arrested near Cape Town and charged with a string of offences involving schoolboys in Scotland, including four rapes, 60 sexual assaults, 25 physical assaults, and a breach of the peace.
Soldier F acquitted in Bloody Sunday trial
Soldier F has been acquitted of murder related to the Bloody Sunday incident, where 13 unarmed protesters were killed in Derry. Judge Mr Justice Lynch stated that the evidence presented did not meet the high standard required for a criminal conviction. The case relied on statements from two fellow soldiers, which were deemed unreliable.
FRAUD
Fraud losses surge as scams evolve
UK Finance has reported a 12% increase in financial losses from authorised push payment (APP) fraud for the first half of this year, totalling £257.5m. The average loss per APP case was £2,325, with investment scams averaging £15,098. Despite an 8% decrease in APP cases to 110,747, the number of payments increased by 4%. £159.2m was returned to victims, representing 62% of losses. Ben Donaldson, managing director of economic crime at UK Finance, said fraudsters are using AI "to enhance tried and tested tactics more quickly, at a greater scale, in different languages and to a greater effect." Investment scams accounted for £97.7m of the losses, a 55% rise from last year.
PRISONS
Police and Prison Service aim to bring down illegal drone deliveries
Police are collaborating with the Scottish Prison Service to combat illegal contraband delivery using drones in HMP Shotts. The use of drones poses a threat to staff and prisoners. Officers are distributing leaflets to residents, urging them to report any suspicious activity.
FIRMS
Shoosmiths seals major letting deal
Shoosmiths has facilitated a significant letting of 40,000 sq ft to Chemify at the Health Innovation Hub (HIH) in Glasgow. The 87,000 sq ft facility, developed by Kadans Science Partner, received £27.5m from the City Deal, £38m from the UK Research and Innovation Strength in Places fund, and over £22m from industry partners. Barry McKeown, head of Shoosmiths' Glasgow office, said: "Kadans Science Partner has an enviable reputation for planning and delivering impressive commercial builds."
TECHNOLOGY
Apple loses £1.5bn class action suit over App Store charges
Apple has lost a UK class action antitrust lawsuit over claims it abused its dominant position in order to levy "excessive and unfair" charges on software downloaded from its App Store. The Competition Appeal Tribunal found that Apple has "near absolute market power" in the markets for iOS app distribution and in-app payments. The ruling could lead to potential damages of £1.5bn. Apple said it would appeal.
CORPORATE
Scotland's firms face investment drought
Nearly half of Scotland's business leaders report a lack of investment capital, pushing firms into a "defensive mode" that jeopardises growth, according to a biannual survey by MFMac. Only 8% find funding readily available, while 48% consider it scarce. The uncertain economy is the main barrier to growth, with 67% citing it as their greatest challenge. Chris Harte, chief executive of MFMac, commented: "It is proving hard for Scottish businesses to shake off the effects of wider economic stagnation."
OTHER
Paisley named 'Town of the Year'
Judges have awarded Paisley the title of Scotland's Town of the Year, recognising its significant resurgence driven by unprecedented investment. New businesses, homes, and a state-of-the-art secondary school are emerging, alongside the transformation of Paisley Museum, set to reopen next year. Kimberley Guthrie, Chief Officer of Scotland's Towns Partnership, stated: "Incredibly special things are happening in Paisley."
 


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