A sharp slice of what matters in Scottish law
Scottish Edition
24th July 2026
 
THE HOT STORY
Police investigate allegations after officer's death
Police Scotland is investigating allegations that officer Alan Greer, who killed himself in May, carried out multiple serious sexual offences, including rape, attempted murder and violent assaults. The inquiry, launched after a complaint about a non-recent sexual assault, has identified several alleged victims and is being described as one of the anti-corruption unit's largest and most complex investigations. Greer was arrested in April, released pending further inquiries and suspended before his death, which is separately being examined by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner. First Minister John Swinney said he was "absolutely horrified," by the allegations, while Police Scotland has urged other potential victims to come forward, promising support and a thorough investigation.

 
CASES
Former River City actor jailed for rape
Former River City actor Iain Robertson has been jailed for nine years after being convicted of raping one woman and abusing two others between 2004 and 2019. The 45-year-old was found guilty of rape, sexual assault, domestic abuse and threatening behaviour. Sentencing him, Lady Drummond said his sustained pattern of controlling and violent conduct had caused lasting psychological harm to his victims. Robertson was placed on the sex offenders' register and will remain under supervision after his release.
Call centre boss loses unfair dismissal claim
A Glasgow employment tribunal has rejected an unfair dismissal claim by former Sky manager John Paul McGuiness, who was sacked after giving his father-in-law unauthorised Sky TV discounts. Despite his 20 years' service, the tribunal found his actions breached company rules on accessing family accounts and amounted to gross misconduct. Employment Judge Stuart Neilson ruled that, although dismissal appeared harsh, it was a reasonable response and dismissed the claim.
Cocaine bust worth £1.68m in Moodiesburn
A 34-year-old man is due to appear at Airdrie Sheriff Court after Police Scotland seized cocaine with an estimated street value of £1.68m during a raid on a property in Moodiesburn, North Lanarkshire. Detectives said the operation demonstrated the force's commitment to disrupting the supply of illegal drugs and protecting local communities from the harm they cause.

 
STV

 
FIRMS
Dentons' revenues surge
Global law firm Dentons has reported a 10% rise in UK, Ireland and Middle East revenues to £336m, with its Glasgow and Edinburgh offices contributing to growth. The firm said its strategy of securing complex, cross-border mandates and investing in specialist areas had driven the increase. Banking, regulatory investigations and restructuring were among the strongest-performing practices, while Dublin and Middle East operations also recorded growth.
Murray Beith Murray recognised in global wealth rankings
Edinburgh law firm Murray Beith Murray and five of its partners have been recognised in the Chambers High Net Worth 2026 rankings for private wealth law. The accolades come during a period of growth that has included a rebrand, a new website and the launch of the Andrew Murray Signature Prize. Chairman Andrew Paterson said the recognition reflected the firm's commitment to clients and recent strategic investment.
Scullion LAW promotes four key lawyers
Scullion LAW has announced the promotion of four lawyers: Judith Higson to director, Nicola Buchanan to legal director, Claire Thomas to senior associate, and Michael Stewart to senior solicitor. Nicholas Scullion, managing director, stated: "These promotions are thoroughly deserved and reflect the exceptional contribution that Judith, Nicola, Claire and Michael have each made."
CRIME
Savile 'had more victims in Scotland', detective says
Former police officer Mark Williams-Thomas has said Jimmy Savile may have had more victims in Scotland, following the discovery of a 1969 school magazine interview containing inappropriate remarks to pupils. The former investigator urged authorities to review records and investigate any unresolved concerns linked to Savile's visits to the Highlands, where he owned a home and had longstanding connections. Police Scotland said historical reports of sexual abuse would be taken seriously.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Councillor calls for FOI breach investigation
Highland Council member Cllr Andrew Jarvie has urged the council's audit committee to urgently investigate its handling of Freedom of Information requests - after figures were published showing the Scottish Information Commissioner has ruled against the council in 19 out of 20 cases since January. Cllr Jarvie said the number of reports "on its own says something isn't right", but that "for almost all of them to find the council broke the law is nothing short of inexcusable".
AND FINALLY...
Artist phones in law degree
Tara Dakini, a West Kilbride artist and educator, has completed a four-year part-time LLB law degree almost entirely on her mobile phone – while simultaneously developing an exhibition about witch‑hunts and legal injustice. Initially interested in psychotherapy,  Dakini shifted to law to advocate against discrimination. Her studies revealed connections between modern disability rights and historical witch-hunts, which inspired her upcoming exhibition.

 

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