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Criminal Defence Lawyer Scotland Blog

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Plain English guides from our criminal defence solicitors on bail, police procedure, court and sentencing in Scotland.

Court and trials

Why would a court case be adjourned in Scotland in the Criminal Justice System?

Navigating the intricacies of Scots law can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding why a court case might be adjourned. At Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we know that adjournments can cause anxiety and confusion. But don’t fret—let’s unravel the common reasons why a court case might be postponed in Scotland, including both solemn cases and those in the sheriff court.

14 July 2025 · 4 min readRead
Court and trials

What Cases Go to Sheriff Court in Scotland? Learn about the Criminal Court and Criminal Proceedings.

Navigating the complexities of the Scottish legal system can be daunting. One key component is the Sheriff Court, a pivotal part of the judicial landscape. At Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we’re here to break down what kinds of cases find their way to the Sheriff Court and how we can assist you through the process.

14 June 2025 · 3 min readRead
Court and trials

Do All Jurors in a Jury Have to Agree on a Verdict in Scotland?

Jury trials are a cornerstone of the Scottish criminal justice system, but they operate under unique rules, such as the allowance for three verdicts, which might surprise those familiar with other legal systems. One common question that arises is whether all 12 jurors need to agree on a verdict. Let’s dive into the specifics of jury unanimity in Scotland and what it means for criminal defence cases, with particular attention to the number of jurors involved.

22 May 2025 · 3 min readRead
Bail and undertakings

Can you get bail after being charged with a crime and pleading guilty to the offence?

When facing criminal charges, understanding the bail process is crucial, especially if you’ve pleaded guilty or are faced with remand in custody. This blog explores the possibility of obtaining bail post-guilty plea under Scots law, providing insights from Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland.

11 May 2025 · 4 min readRead
Solicitor advocates

What is a solicitor advocate in Scotland?

In Scotland, the legal system is unique and distinct from other parts of the UK, with its own set of rules, regulations, and legal professionals. Among these professionals, solicitor advocates hold a special position. But what exactly is a solicitor advocate, and what role do they play in the Scottish legal landscape? Here at Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we’re here to break down everything you need to know.

5 April 2025 · 6 min readRead
Bail and undertakings

Do You Have to Sleep at Your Bail Address as Part of Your Bail Conditions?

Bail conditions in Scotland often come with a mix of confusion and concern, especially when you’re navigating criminal charges. One of the most frequently asked questions is, “Do you have to sleep at your bail address?” It’s a crucial aspect to understand because not complying with your bail conditions can lead to serious consequences, including arrest and potential imprisonment. Here at Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we aim to simplify complex legal matters for you.

21 February 2025 · 6 min readRead
Sentencing

Is a procurator fiscal warning a conviction in the criminal justice system in Scotland?

In Scotland, the criminal justice system can be intricate, especially when it comes to understanding the various legal terms and their implications. One common query is whether a fiscal warning constitutes a conviction in criminal proceedings. As experts in criminal defence law, Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland is here to clarify this aspect of Scots law.

1 November 2024 · 4 min readRead
Bail and undertakings

Does an Undertaking Go on Your Criminal Record?

Undertakings are a common part of the criminal justice process in Scotland, but they often lead to confusion. If you’ve been issued an undertaking, you might wonder if it leaves a lasting mark on your record. In this blog, we’ll explain what an undertaking is, how it works under Scots law, and whether or not it will appear on your criminal record. At Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we specialise in navigating the complexities of criminal law and can provide tailored advice for your situation.

8 October 2024 · 5 min readRead
Police and charges

Who decides if there is enough evidence to prosecute? Learn about the Prosecution Process

In the labyrinth of Scots law, one of the most critical stages in a criminal case is determining whether there’s sufficient evidence to move forward with prosecution, as outlined by the code for crown prosecutors. But who exactly holds the power to decide if there’s enough evidence to prosecute, and what does this process entail? At Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we are here to support you in navigating the complexities of the prosecution service. We aim to shed light on these essential aspects, guiding you through the intricacies of Scots law and the prosecution decision process.

1 October 2024 · 4 min readRead
Bail and undertakings

Do Police Check Bail Conditions in Scotland? Understanding Bail Conditions and What Happens If You Breach Bail Conditions

When someone is released on bail in Scotland, many questions arise about how strictly the police monitor the conditions attached to that bail. If you’re navigating the criminal justice system, understanding how bail conditions are enforced is crucial. At Criminal Defence Lawyers Scotland, we specialise in defending the rights of those on bail and ensuring they fully understand their obligations under Scots law.

8 September 2024 · 6 min readRead

Do not face it alone.

The sooner you speak to a criminal defence solicitor, the more we can do to protect your position.