Legal Matters Scotland
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16th September 2025

A free early morning round up of news for legal professionals across Scotland.
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INDUSTRY
Scotland to abolish not proven verdict
The Scottish Government’s Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform Bill seeks to abolish the centuries-old "not proven" verdict, creating a clearer two-verdict system. Justice Secretary Angela Constance said the landmark legislation would deliver a fairer, more transparent process, particularly in sexual offence cases where the third verdict has been disproportionately used. Reforms also include stricter jury requirements for conviction, a new Victims Commissioner, lifelong anonymity for sexual offence victims, and "Suzanne’s Law" linking parole to disclosure of victims’ remains. The Conservatives back scrapping "not proven" but have demanded amendments, including grooming gang inquiries and better victim notifications, while the Liberal Democrats have pushed for victim impact statements and a charter. Despite political wrangling, ministers insist the bill will transform justice by supporting victims and protecting rights of the accused. With 160 amendments under debate, the outcome could reshape Scotland’s justice system for decades, states the Glasgow Evening Times.

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.

 
THE LAW
Hillsborough Law introduced in Parliament
The Hillsborough Law, officially known as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, has been introduced to Parliament, marking a significant step towards justice for victims of the 1989 disaster. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasised the law's importance, stating it aims to prevent cover-ups and ensure accountability. The Bill includes a new duty of candour for public officials, with potential criminal sanctions for breaches. Margaret Aspinall, a campaigner, expressed hope that the law will prevent future suffering. The Bill also expands legal aid for bereaved families.
Labour's broken promise on sexual offences court
Scottish Labour has been accused of breaking promises after proposing amendments to the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform bill. This legislation aims to establish a specific sexual offences court, a commitment made by Anas Sarwar last year. Labour's Pauline McNeill intends to introduce amendments that could obstruct this initiative, despite Justice Secretary Angela Constance stating that such changes will not resolve the backlog of trials. Constance warned that these amendments would hinder progress in the court system.
Ministers accused of blocking outdoor education bill
Scottish Conservative MSP Liz Smith has called on John Swinney to "abide by the will of parliament" after ministers failed to lodge a financial resolution for her Schools (Residential Outdoor Education) (Scotland) Bill, which was backed by MSPs earlier this year. The Herald notes that if the Scottish Government fails to produce a financial resolution by September 26 "the bill will fall, marking the first time in the history of devolution that the procedure has been used to kill legislation supported by a majority of MSPs". The legislation would entitle all pupils aged 12-16 in state and grant-aided schools to at least four nights and five days of residential outdoor education over their time at school.



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POLICING
Police Scotland faces scrutiny over culture
Police Scotland is facing serious allegations following a report from the Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights Independent Review Group (IRG). The report, which emerged after a freedom of information request, highlights a "boys' club" culture within the force, marked by sexism and misogyny. Women reported persistent predatory behaviour and a lack of support for professional advancement. Committee convener Audrey Nicoll MSP expressed concern over the findings, stating: "I am concerned... to read the findings of the IRG 'deep dive' report which states IRG 'believe that there is evidence of sexism, misogyny and VAW within Police Scotland." The Scottish Police Authority is now under pressure to respond.
FIRMS
Burges Salmon hands staff a 5% bonus
Burges Salmon is rewarding all of its staff with a 5% bonus after turnover increased by 9% to £178m and net profit jumped by 25% to £63m in the year to April 30. Profit per equity partner remained flat at £660,000. Managing partner Roger Bull said: "This year's results reflect the strength of our strategic focus and the dedication of our people," adding: "Our growth is not only financial but cultural and operational, driven by our commitment to our clients, our markets, and our values."
Shepherd and Wedderburn strengthens corporate team
Shepherd and Wedderburn has appointed Donald Smith as a corporate finance partner, enhancing its capabilities in strategic areas. This marks the firm's second partner-level hire in corporate this year, following Graham Young's appointment in May. Smith brings extensive experience in M&A, private equity, and equity capital markets from his previous roles at Linklaters, Dentons, and Argenta.
IMMIGRATION
UK prepares for first migrant deportations
The UK is set to commence deportation flights to France under a new returns deal, with around 50 migrants expected to be deported weekly. Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, indicated that the first flights could begin imminently. Formal removal directions have been issued to asylum seekers who arrived via small boats in August. The scheme aims to deter criminal gangs smuggling migrants by allowing the UK to send back those who crossed the Channel. A Home Office spokesperson said: "Protecting the UK border is our top priority." However, the first flight to France under the "one in, one out" deal has not taken place as planned, according to reports. A group of individuals were reportedly removed from an Air France flight due to travel from Heathrow to Paris after a legal challenge. 
DATA PRIVACY
Luxury brands targeted by hackers
Luxury brands Balenciaga, Gucci and Alexander McQueen have been targeted by cybercriminals, with data including customer names, email addresses, phone numbers, addresses and sales information stolen. Parent company Kering said no financial information, such as card details, was accessed. The group behind the hack claims to have data linked to 7.4m unique email addresses. The data breach happened in April, around the same time that other luxury brands including Cartier and Louis Vuitton disclosed breaches.
CASES
Convicted rapist threatens victim in court
Gary Paterson, a convicted rapist, has received an additional two-year sentence for threatening a victim in court. After being found guilty of multiple sexual offences, Paterson made a remark, "you are a goner," while being led to the cells, leaving the victim "terrified." The incident prompted an investigation, and the victim testified that Paterson was filled with "absolute rage."

 
STV
Kirkcaldy court hears rape charge
John Millar, 34, has been charged with the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl in Kirkcaldy. The incident reportedly occurred in woodland between Dunnikier Way and Hendry Road on Thursday. Millar appeared at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court yesterday, where he made no plea.
TAX
Visitor levy gets the thumbs down in Shetland
A meeting of Shetland Islands Council's policy and resources committee has seen councillors vote to reject proposals for a visitor levy in the region. A council report cautioned that the "risks outweigh the benefits" for such a scheme, while council leader Cllr Emma McDonald argued that a visitor levy "just isn't the answer, and doesn't make sense in our context". The report projected that a 5% visitor levy would generate less than £1m over the course of a decade, and would place an administrative burden on accommodation providers while running the risk of discouraging visitors.
WILLS
Edinburgh solicitors offer free wills
Edinburgh residents can write a will at no cost through the Will Aid campaign, running from September to November. Participating solicitors, including Ralph Sayer, offer simple wills for free, encouraging donations to charity. Kimberley Mackay, Partner at Ralph Sayer, noted that many delay writing wills due to emotional hurdles or misconceptions about legal services. Approximately 223,000 adults in Edinburgh lack a will, which can lead to complications for loved ones.
ECONOMY
Britain faces crisis without spending cuts, report warns
A report from the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS) has warned that Britain faces a fiscal crisis unless it cuts spending. It also calls for the abolition of stamp duty on shares and urges ministers to boost the competitiveness of the City. The report’s author, Dr Gerard Lyons, said the UK must control public spending and reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio, commenting: "The issues we face are real, sizeable but are solvable with the right policies. The central aim should be to grow GDP per capita." Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride commented: "Urgent action is needed to fix our public finances and restore confidence in the UK economy."
 


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