A sharp slice of what matters in Scottish law
Scottish Edition
13th February 2026
 
THE HOT STORY
Findlay criticises justice policies
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has criticised the Scottish Government’s justice policies following the case of Keith Rollinson, an Elgin bus driver who died after being assaulted by a teenager. The youth, sentenced to four years and four months’ detention for culpable homicide, could be released after serving part of his term under existing rules. Findlay argued that sentencing guidelines for under-25s and proposals to reduce the automatic release point for short-term prisoners weaken the justice system. First Minister John Swinney expressed sympathy for the victim’s family and defended the independence of the judiciary, stating that imprisonment remains available to courts and that recorded crime has fallen.

 
INDUSTRY
Law firms face investment takeover risk
Brian Inkster, of Inksters Solicitors, argues that the introduction of Alternative Business Structures (ABS) in Scotland has been delayed by misconceptions and regulatory inertia. Writing after a seminar on the Regulation of Legal Services (Scotland) Act 2025, he challenges claims that ABS primarily enable the sale of law firms to investors. ABS were first legislated for in 2010, but implementation has been repeatedly postponed, with the Law Society recently announcing a further delay. Inkster contends ABS would allow non-lawyer ownership, improve succession planning, attract investment, enhance innovation and diversity, and increase consumer choice. He also argues that Scotland is at a competitive disadvantage compared with England and Wales, where ABS have operated since 2012.
Lawyer complaints surge by 40%
Complaints against lawyers have surged nearly 40% over the past year, with the Legal Ombudsman receiving around 3,500 complaints in the last quarter of the year. Residential conveyancing issues topped the list, making up 36% of complaints, followed by personal injury at 15% and wills and probate at 14%. The ombudsman noted that communication, delays, and unclear costs were significant factors contributing to the rise. A spokeswoman for the Law Society attributed the increase to changes in stamp duty and mortgage rates, leading to more transactions and complaints.
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THE LAW
RO rules spark children's rights concerns
Campaigners warn that children's rights are violated daily due to Religious Observance (RO) rules in Scottish schools. The Humanist Society Scotland (HSS) criticises proposed changes by the Scottish Government, stating they pose a "serious risk of legal action." Current legislation allows pupils to participate in RO against parental wishes but does not permit self-withdrawal. HSS's audit revealed that 79% of schools comply with RO laws, with many activities involving worship. HSS spokesperson remarked: "Human rights breaches will be happening every single day." The Scottish Government claims the Bill will enhance children's rights.
SENTENCING
Sex offenders should report pregnancies, review argues
The national Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel has recommended that sex offenders be recalled to prison if they fail to report pregnancies in relationships they are in. The report follows the case of baby Victoria, who died at the hands of her parents, Constance Marten and Mark Gordon - a convicted rapist. The report calls for improved support to prevent future tragedies.
CASES
Aberdeen City Council enforces new legal rules
Aberdeen City Council has introduced new procedures to reduce the risk of future legal challenges following controversy over the city centre bus gates scheme. A report found internal processes were under strain during the 2024 decision to make traffic restrictions permanent, particularly when amendments were introduced shortly before the vote. Legal advice later indicated parts of the decision could have been open to challenge, prompting a fresh vote. New measures include earlier legal scrutiny of proposals, mandatory advance submission of motions and closer liaison between roads officials and council lawyers to strengthen governance and transparency.
Lockerbie bombing suspect appears in court
Abu Agila Mohammad Mas'ud Kheir Al-Marimi, known as Masud, has appeared in a US court facing charges related to the Lockerbie bombing. The US Department of Justice claims he confessed to his role in the 1988 attack on Pan Am Flight 103, which killed 270 people. Masud alleges his confession was coerced under threat from masked men. The US Government maintains the confession was voluntary and detailed. The hearing is expected to last two days, with Judge Dabney L Friedrich set to issue a decision later.
FIRMS
Gillespie Macandrew appoints new CEO
Gavin Merchant will become the new chief executive of Gillespie Macandrew LLP next month, succeeding Robert Graham-Campbell, who retires after eight years. The firm, which appointed Frank Blin as chair in July 2025, aims for growth under Merchant's leadership. He has a background in law from the University of Edinburgh and experience in banking and private markets.
HOUSING
Glasgow faces housing crisis surge
Glasgow is experiencing a significant housing crisis, with 1,290 applications from non-residents in 2023/24, a 3,585% increase from 35 the previous year. This surge follows the SNP Government's removal of the 'local connection' requirement for housing applications. Scottish Tory housing spokesman Meghan Gallacher stated that these figures "highlight the impact on Glasgow of the SNP's open-door immigration policy." In response, the Tories are calling for the reinstatement of the local connection rule and the scrapping of restrictions on gas boilers in new homes. Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan assured that no one would be forced to change their heating system.
PLANNING
Argyll and Bute Council faces planning backlog
Argyll and Bute Council is facing significant delays in processing planning applications, with nearly 100 cases pending for over a year. Notable projects include a proposed 200-house development at Geilston Farm and a new whisky distillery at Bowmore. The council has requested extensions for these applications, citing ongoing discussions with consultees. A spokesperson clarified: "Delays can sometimes occur if we need additional information from the applicant or third parties." The council aims to resolve issues thoroughly rather than rush decisions, balancing legal requirements with limited resources.

 
STV
TAX
Edinburgh Council approves visitor levy
Starting in July, Edinburgh will implement a 5% visitor tax for hotel and Airbnb stays. The levy is expected to generate £90m in the first three years, funding policing, landmark restoration, and community projects. SNP group leader Simita Kumar clarified: "We want to do everything we can in terms of making sure we are mitigating the impact of tourism on housing." The plan includes hiring 45 new police officers and redirecting funds to various city projects, including the Causey project and improvements to Princes Street.
MEDIA
BBC faces lawsuit over Trump edit
The BBC is set to face a £10bn lawsuit in February 2027 regarding its editing of a speech by Donald Trump. A US judge has denied the BBC's request to delay the discovery phase, allowing both parties to gather evidence. The BBC plans to file a motion to dismiss the case, arguing the court lacks jurisdiction and that Mr Trump's claims are unfounded. The controversy stems from a Panorama episode that misrepresented Mr Trump's comments about the Capitol riot.

 

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