Legal Matters Scotland
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24th November 2025

A free early morning round up of news for legal professionals across Scotland.
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INDUSTRY
Reform needed for Scottish law firms
A coalition of 18 Scottish law firms is calling for rule changes to allow non-lawyers to invest in or own equity in legal practices, arguing that current restrictions are outdated and risk creating a "succession crisis". The Alternative Business Structures (ABS) Scotland Group says many firms, especially sole practitioners, could disappear as senior partners retire without successors. Members dispute the Law Society of Scotland’s claim that there is only "limited interest" in reform, noting that England and Wales have benefited from non-lawyer ownership for more than a decade. The Legal Services (Scotland) Act 2010 provides a framework for such models, but regulatory implementation has been repeatedly delayed, now pushed to 2027. The Law Society acknowledges frustration and plans further discussions with the group.
Class action lawsuits threaten UK economy
The rise of class action lawsuits in the UK is reportedly harming the economy and undermining legal stability. According to the Adam Smith Institute's report, "Judge Dread: How lawfare undermines business confidence in the UK," third-party litigation funding primarily benefits funders rather than victims. Recent cases, such as the BHP dam collapse lawsuit, highlight this issue, with significant payouts going to backers instead of claimants. The Department for Business and Trade noted a dramatic increase in opt-out cases since 2015, leading to substantial legal costs. Sam Bidwell from the ASI suggests regulating third-party funding for greater transparency.

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POLICING
Community officers to boost local policing
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has pledged a dedicated community and crime prevention officer for every one of Scotland’s 355 council wards, arguing the plan will free up frontline police by reducing burdens that take officers off the beat. He says too much police time is lost to sickness absence, court waiting hours, and mental-health call-outs. Labour’s wider proposals, including a Mental Health Emergency Response Service, court modernisation and expanded A&E psychiatric support, aim to shift non-policing duties elsewhere. The Scottish Police Federation welcomed the plan as achievable with proper funding, while Police Scotland warns that falling officer numbers and rising demand risk slower responses without major investment.
Ayrshire Police chief clarifies custody centre claims
Chief Superintendent Suzanne Chow of Ayrshire Police has addressed claims regarding custody centre closures. Councillor Stephen Ferry suggested that centres in Ayr, Kilmarnock, and Saltcoats do not operate 24/7, leading to prisoners being transported to Glasgow. Chow confirmed that while Kilmarnock and Saltcoats remain operational, there have been occasional short closures due to resource constraints. Discussions on the future of local policing and resource allocation are ongoing, with plans for community engagement until summer.
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THE LAW
Call for "clarity" over ruling on sex trials
Lawyers are urging Scotland’s courts to provide clarity on how they will implement a landmark Supreme Court ruling that found current restrictions on evidence in sexual offence trials risk breaching defendants’ fair-trial rights. The judgment concluded that "rape shield" laws, intended to protect complainers, have been applied too restrictively since 2013. Stuart Munro of the Law Society of Scotland said uncertainty now surrounds ongoing and future cases, as the Scottish courts must decide how to adjust their approach. The ruling could prompt multiple appeals from those previously unable to present certain evidence. Although the Supreme Court dismissed the specific appeals of David Daly and Andrew Keir, it held that the wider legal framework needs reform. Solicitors say clearer guidance from Scotland’s courts would help both prosecution and defence navigate the implications.
Assisted dying debate sparks fear
Pam Duncan-Glancy, a Scottish Labour MSP, has expressed her fears regarding the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill. Living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, she feels the bill could endanger vulnerable groups, including disabled individuals and those feeling like burdens. During her testimony to the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, she highlighted the need for clarity in defining terminal illness. However, her proposed safeguards were rejected, intensifying her concerns. "Compassion can never mean turning away from those who might feel that with a life like theirs, they could be considered better off dead," she stated.
Land Reform Bill sparks debate
The Scottish Parliament has passed the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill, which significantly alters compensation rights for secure and fixed agricultural tenants. The bill mandates landlords to provide a 12-month notice before resuming land and introduces enhanced compensation based on land value differences. Hamish Lean, head of rural property at Shepherd and Wedderburn, noted that these changes may deter landlords from leasing land due to potential compensation liabilities. The Government has acknowledged the need for further compensation rights for secure tenants but has not clarified when these will be implemented.
FIRMS
Clifford Chance cites AI as it axes 10% of back-office staff
Clifford Chance is set to reduce its London business services team by around 10%, affecting 55 employees. The law firm cited increased reliance on AI and decreased demand for certain services as reasons for the cuts. A spokesperson stated that the changes align with their strategy to enhance operations, potentially leading to new roles and revised team structures. The job cuts will not take effect until January 2026. The firm reported a £2.4bn revenue for the fiscal year ending 2025, a 9% increase from the previous year.
Harper Macleod expands in Elgin
Harper Macleod has expanded its Elgin office, strengthening its position as the area’s largest law firm. The personal legal team has grown to 11 lawyers, with recent additions boosting expertise in private client and family law. Senior partner Laura McLean has also gained triple accreditation, underscoring the firm’s strong regional offering.
SOCIAL
Scotland's drug crisis: Government stands firm
The Scottish affairs committee at Westminster has urged the UK Government to allow more drug consumption rooms in Scotland to combat rising drug deaths. Despite a 13% decrease in drug-related deaths in 2024, Scotland remains the drug deaths capital of Europe. The Thistle, the UK's first drug consumption room, opened in Glasgow this year, but the UK Government has ruled out changing the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 to facilitate more sites. Patricia Ferguson, chair of the committee, expressed disappointment, stating: "The UK Government shouldn't take any option that could help reduce deaths off the table."
CASES
Survivor demands action on grooming gangs
A woman, identified as Sarah, has recounted her harrowing experiences of abuse by an Asian grooming gang in Edinburgh, starting at age 13. She claims that social workers were aware of her situation but failed to intervene effectively. Sarah stated: "This is happening in Scotland, it happened to me and it will be happening still." She is one of several survivors speaking out, urging the Scottish Government to take urgent action. Despite calls for a national inquiry, First Minister John Swinney has not yet responded to these demands.
Parents take action after carbon monoxide scare
Parents are suing East Dunbartonshire Council following a carbon monoxide (CO) leak at Balmuildy Primary School in 2020. Nearly 30 families are concerned about potential long-term health effects on their children. A mother described the chaotic scene as "like a zombie film," with students fainting and vomiting. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report revealed that 35 pupils and four staff reported symptoms on the first day. Ann Davie, CEO of East Dunbartonshire Council, stated that safety measures were implemented immediately after the incident.
Peggie launches legal action against RCN
An NHS Fife nurse, Sandie Peggie, is pursuing legal action against the Royal College of Nursing, claiming the union failed to support her after she was suspended in 2024 following an encounter with a trans colleague. A tribunal into her complaint against the RCN is scheduled for September 2026. Peggie has also taken NHS Fife and Dr Beth Upton to tribunal, with a decision still pending, and has launched further related legal claims.
TAX
Glasgow introduces 5% tourist tax
Glasgow will implement a 5% tourist tax on overnight stays starting January 2027, potentially generating £16m. Discussions about the levy's allocation will include trade unions to ensure a balance with business interests. Glasgow Greens co-leader Jon Molyneux emphasised the importance of including worker voices, noted: "This will help to balance the voices of big business." The visitor levy forum will be established by December 19, 2023, and will meet quarterly to advise on fund usage and objectives. Councillors also agreed to delay notifying guests about the tax until April 2026.
Business leaders call for tax reform
Martin Gilbert and Sir Ian Wood, prominent businessmen from northeast Scotland, have urged Rachel Reeves to abolish the windfall tax and the ban on new oil and gas licences. They argue that the windfall tax harms the oil and gas sector, particularly in Aberdeen, and leads to a decline in investment. Their joint statement calls for the approval of "shovel-ready" projects in the North Sea and highlights the need for a stable domestic supply of oil and gas. They urged: "We must act now" to ensure economic growth and energy security for the UK.
PROPERTY
STUC summit to tackle asylum disinformation
The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) will host a summit to address disinformation regarding plans to house 300 asylum seekers at Cameron Barracks in Inverness. STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer emphasised the need for transparent communication to counter false narratives from the far right. She stated: "We cannot allow them to gain a foothold in our communities." The summit will include representatives from the UK Home Office, Highland Council, and local MPs. Protests against the plans have already occurred, highlighting community divisions over the issue.
WELFARE
Scottish Labour leader calls for benefit cap end
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has called for the end of the two-child benefit cap ahead of the upcoming UK Government Budget. Speaking on BBC Scotland's Sunday Show, he emphasised the need for a Budget that prioritises reducing child poverty and confronting the cost-of-living crisis. Sarwar said: "This has to be a Budget that reduces poverty, in particular, child poverty." He also highlighted the importance of investing in public services and the energy sector, advocating for a significant energy package to address rising bills.
TRANSPORT
Ayrshire councils unite against e-scooter misuse
Ayrshire's three councils are collaborating with Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to address the illegal use of e-scooters. Currently, e-scooters are classified as Private Light Electric Vehicles, making their use on public land illegal. This includes roads, parks, and shopping centres, as they cannot be insured.
HOLYROOD
Swinney urged to apologise for pandemic failings
John Swinney is under pressure to apologise for his role in the SNP's handling of the Covid pandemic. As deputy First Minister, he faced criticism for failing to act decisively when the virus spread in early 2020. The Scottish Covid Bereaved group highlighted the Government's slow response, noting that Covid was discussed under "any other business" in cabinet meetings. Tory MSP Murdo Fraser stated: "Families bereaved by Covid will rightly be furious if John Swinney doesn't answer questions." Swinney expressed sympathy but did not issue a formal apology.
WESTMINSTER
Starmer's smoking ban faces EU fines
The UK Government plans to implement a smoking ban for those born after January 1, 2009, but faces potential legal challenges from the EU. Greece, Slovakia, and Romania have warned that the Tobacco and Vapes Bill may violate EU law in Northern Ireland due to the Windsor Framework. If enforced, the EU could take legal action against the UK, impose tariffs, or cancel the Brexit trade deal. A government spokesman responded: "We believe the bill is consistent with the Windsor Framework, and it will apply UK-wide." The bill is currently with the House of Lords.
 


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