We are delighted to once again feature in The Times “Best Law Firms 2025” list, published today.
This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and the trust our clients place in us. We take pride in our work and remain committed to providing thoughtful, effective legal solutions to those we serve.
The Times states: “The firm often handles complex criminal cases related to domestic violence, sexual offences, embezzlement, money laundering, fraud and other white-collar issues. Clients include high-net-worth individuals and prominent figures from the worlds of media, politics and sport, as well as leading professionals and organisations. Another area of expertise is regulatory crime. The firm provides advice on topics such as education, health and housing, safety, transport and wildlife”.
Full details here: https://lnkd.in/eEjySQYY
This acknowledgment encourages us to keep striving for excellence in every case we undertake.
Sexual Offence Prosecution Case Study by Hannah Baxter, Solicitor
Navigating Complex Legal Challenges: A Case Study
As a solicitor, my responsibility extends beyond simply providing legal advice. It encompasses guiding clients through stressful and unfamiliar legal landscapes, ensuring they receive the best possible representation. A recent case I worked on at Edinburgh High Court perfectly encapsulates the complexities and challenges that come with high-profile legal cases.
The Case at Hand
I had the privilege of working on a serious sexual offence case as the main solicitor, representing a client who faced prosecution at the High Court. The stakes were exceptionally high; a guilty verdict would have led to a lengthy imprisonment. The nature of this case required meticulous preparation and a thorough understanding of both the client’s needs and the Scottish legal procedures.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
The case presented unique challenges, primarily due to the client’s residence in North America, where the legal system drastically differs from that of Scotland. With time zone differences and geographical distance, all our communications primarily happened through online meetings. Building trust and rapport digitally was an initial hurdle but crucial to the success of our defence strategy. Explaining the intricacies of the Scottish legal system and laws of evidence through video conferences required patience and clarity, making every meeting pivotal.
International Complications
An additional challenge was securing testimony from a key defence witness residing in Russia. Given the political climate, personal contact was impossible, complicating the gathering of a formal statement. Through persistent efforts, I managed to establish communication with the witness. A statement was successfully formalised and admitted as trial evidence, which proved pivotal to our defence.
Sustained Efforts and Support
The journey to trial extended over twelve months, a timeline typical for high court cases but nonetheless stressful for the client. Supporting the client during this time was essential. I prioritised open communication, adapting to his schedule to offer reassurance and manage expectations. Coordinating with the legal team, scrutinising prosecution evidence, gathering witness statements, and conducting comprehensive research laid the foundation for a robust defence strategy.
Outcome and Reflection
The trial culminated in the client’s acquittal, allowing him to resume his life back home. This outcome underscored the significance of thorough case preparation, personalised service, and collaborative legal teamwork. It exemplifies the vital role solicitors play in alleviating the strains of legal proceedings for clients facing daunting charges, especially in foreign jurisdictions.
Conclusion
This experience reminded me that, as solicitors, our duty extends beyond legal representation; it involves helping clients navigate their challenges with confidence. Each case is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to justice and client advocacy, making every effort count towards achieving the best outcomes.
This case not only reinforced my belief in the power of advocacy but also highlighted the importance of a personalised, dedicated approach tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
Our beloved former senior partner, the late Leonard Murray, features in the fascinating BBC documentary ‘Inside Barlinnie’ which was recently released and can be viewed on iplayer, link here: Inside Barlinnie . His contribution is in episode 3.
Len was the solicitor who defended Tony Miller, the last ever prisoner to be hanged in Scotland after a murder conviction. Len was a young lawyer at the time, but it is a case which he took with him to his grave. He often spoke of it and the first 3 chapters of his book ‘The Pleader’, cover the case in detail. These chapters and Len’s contribution to the programme not only give an incredible insight into the case, but clearly show the effect the case had on him. They are a reminder not only of the impact which cases had on Len (which made him the great and passionate advocate he was) but on solicitors generally.
Sadly, when the programme was still in production, Len passed away. His family asked David McKie, our current senior partner, to contribute by reading sections from the book and what the case meant to Len.
David McKie said: ‘I was very sad that I didn’t get to see Len reading his own first hand account from his excellent book. When his sons asked me to step in for their dad – my good friend and mentor, I was deeply honoured and humbled to do so. It took me back not only to the many hours I spent talking to Len about cases, to a time before I was born, albeit not that long ago in comparative terms, to a different era when absolutely everything was on the line for clients and their lawyers who carried their lives in their hands. As agents, we still carry enormous burdens of responsibility. This particular case reinforced not only Len’s deep passion for his work but the impact solicitors and advocates feel every day when representing clients, whether accused of serious crimes or in any situation where their liberty, reputation or financial standing is at stake.’
As a firm, Levy & McRae is very saddened to hear of the loss of Alex Salmond.
David McKie, senior partner of the firm, said: “Alex was a true giant of the political world both in Scotland and across the UK. He was unquestionably one of the leading politicians of his generation. He was widely respected across all political viewpoints. He had a unique ability to connect with the person in the street right up to heads of state and royalty. It comes as no surprise to read the many testimonials which followed his untimely death.
“Our involvement with Alex came after his tenure as First Minister and at a difficult time in his life and career.
“While we helped to navigate Alex through three legal processes (judicial review, a trial and the subsequent parliamentary inquiry), the real driving force in all of those processes was Alex himself. He very quickly grasped the legal issues involved and fought hard to ensure that justice was done.
“Alex’s courage and strength of character over the three-year period, from the Scottish Government launching an unlawful process against him, throughout his criminal trial in which he was cleared on all charges by a jury of his peers, to his unimpeachable evidence in the Parliamentary Inquiry, was absolutely incredible.
“What he endured – the apparatus of the state turning against him – would have broken many people, but not Alex.
“He remained utterly determined to see justice done, but showed no bitterness or anger towards his accusers or to the many others who jumped on the bandwagon to condemn him, even before any evidence had been produced or presented.
“Instead, he simply focussed on the evidence and understood, unlike many commentators at the time, the importance of the due process of law. While some individuals, for whatever reasons, remained critical and sceptical (even after his legal victories, all of which were grounded on the evidence), his friends and his true supporters, as well as those who respect the rule and process of law, recognised and respected his complete vindication.
“I will always remember a truly incredible human being, with remarkable insight, strength of personality and a stoic restraint which many others could not contemplate. I cannot fail to mention either his kindness, loyalty, his ability with people and, remarkably, the wonderful sense of humour he managed to show throughout and despite his tribulations.
“My thoughts go out to Moira and to his very close friends and associates whom I had the privilege of getting to know through an otherwise horrendous period in Alex’s life. While there are still some injustices to be resolved, I hope Alex could rest in the knowledge that he was unequivocally vindicated and that he retained the love and respect of those who most mattered to him.’
Callum Anderson, Head of Regulatory Crime, who co-led the criminal defence team in the firm, said: “Working with Alex was a unique and inspiring experience. He exemplified resolve, forensic focus and a strategic understanding which are normally the preserve of only very experienced lawyers.
“I stood next to Alex when he was first arrested and charged and was at his side when he gave a truly unforgettable speech on the day of his acquittal. That day coincided with the start of lockdown and, despite Alex having been overwhelmingly cleared, his focus was instead on those suffering the impact of the pandemic. That was the mark of the man’.
We recently attended a pivotal meeting in Dundee regarding the Eljamel Inquiry, marking a significant step forward in pursuing justice for affected patients.
Led by Inquiry Chair Lord Robert Weir and senior counsel Jamie Dawson KC, the inquiry aims to ensure that the voices of former patients are central to its proceedings. A virtual event took place on Thursday, October 10, 2024, allowing those who couldn’t attend the in-person meeting to engage and share their views.
We have shared Draft Terms of Reference and we encourage all stakeholders to provide their input before the October 25, 2024 submission deadline. You can submit your views directly to the Inquiry Team via the online response form or email at legal@eljamelinquiry.scot.
Your experiences and views matter. For more information, visit Draft Terms of Reference.
If you need assistance, our team at L&M Medilaw is here to support you. Feel free to reach out by phone or email.
We are delighted to announce that our firm has been awarded impressive rankings in the latest Legal 500 2025 edition. This recognition is a testament to our dedication, hard work, and the outstanding expertise of our team.
We have been ranked this year for:
In criminal law we are now the only Tier One firm in Scotland. It is also particularly pleasing to see that in each of the three areas where we are ranked, we also achieve the ‘client satisfaction’ benchmark.
Our lawyers Senior Partner David McKie , Neil Hay, Callum Anderson, Andrew Seggie, Paul Anderson, Hannah Baxter, Elizabeth Rose, Nadine Montgomery Allam and Suzanne Williams were all named in the new rankings, which shows the breadth of talent that our firm possesses.
David McKie commented: ‘I would like to congratulate not only those named this week as recognised leaders in their field, but our whole team of highly skilled and committed lawyers who play a vital role in maintaining our high standards in all areas of litigation. I also want to mark the equally valued contribution of our property and private client teams who play a vital role in maintaining our high standards and reputation among our clients and the profession.’
We are incredibly proud of these achievements and grateful to our clients, partners, and colleagues for their continued support. These accolades drive us to keep delivering exceptional service and results for those who place their trust in us.”
Road Traffic Act Prosecution Case Study by Hannah Fairbrother, Solicitor
Introduction
In my legal career, one standout case involved a client from Forfar Sheriff Court charged with driving offences—drug driving, driving without insurance, and driving without L plates—under unusual circumstances. He was pulling a piano on a flatbed trolley with the engine of a child’s quad bike, aiming to raise money for charity. The police and prosecution deemed this setup a motor vehicle within the terms of the Road Traffic Act 1988. .
The Case’s Challenges
Faced with limited legal guidance, I had to research extensively. Similar cases with e-scooters and golf carts didn’t quite match our situation. My client was adamant about not accepting an attractive plea deal offered by the Crown, believing his actions were charitable and not criminal. This put us on the path to trial. The facts of the situation were not in dispute but rather the application of the legislation and case law to what had occurred.
Reflections and Lessons Learned
Ultimately, although the trial didn’t result in a complete win, it was a profound learning experience. Here’s what I took away:
This case taught me not to shy away from complex or unconventional cases and to apply a meticulous, well-rounded approach to all my legal work.
We are pleased to share that one of our trainee solicitors, Cameron Irons, has been appointed as a new committee member to the Trainee and Newly Qualified Society (TANQ), which is run by the Royal Faculty of Procurators in Glasgow.
Cameron works across our criminal and commercial litigation teams, and he will now assist the Royal Faculty and the TANQ society committee in arranging and hosting educational seminars, networking events and social gatherings for young legal professionals across the region.
He said: “I am pleased to be appointed as a committee member of TANQ. This will be a unique opportunity to represent young lawyers and contribute to building a collegiate network for colleagues to connect and build on their professional development.”
The Royal Faculty of Procurators was incorporated prior to 1668 and continues to serve the needs of the legal profession in Glasgow and west central Scotland. It provides members with access to a large law library with significant holdings, a well-regarded CPD education programme, the services of an auditor, and a venue in the city centre for a wide variety of events. The Royal Faculty of Procurators also acts as a representative body for solicitors practicing in the Glasgow area.
David McKie, senior partner of Levy and McRae, said: “We are pleased to see Cameron join the RFPG TANQ Society as a newly appointed committee member. We hope his involvement will bolster our firm’s longstanding relations with the RFPG and further increase engagement with younger lawyers across the legal profession.”
You can email the TANQ committee on tanq@rfpg.org or by visiting the RFPG website at https://www.rfpg.org/
We are delighted to share some exciting news with our clients, colleagues, and friends. Our law firm has been shortlisted in an impressive seven categories at the forthcoming Legal 500 Scotland Law Awards. This prestigious recognition underscores our commitment to excellence, dedication to our clients, and the hard work of our talented team.
Each nomination reflects our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional legal services and achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our clients, partners, and colleagues for their ongoing support and trust.
Domestic Abuse Case Study by Hannah Baxter, Solicitor
I was recently instructed in a case that involved a serious domestic allegation. Prosecuted in the Sheriff Court, the case carried a maximum penalty of 12 months imprisonment.
Sensitivity, Client Background, and Potential Consequences
Most domestic cases are sensitive and need to be handled professionally yet empathetically. This case was particularly concerning due to serious doubts about the veracity of the allegation. It also presented additional challenges because of the client’s personal and family circumstances. My client was a trainee specialist doctor with an international medical degree. He and his family were legally residing in the UK, although they were not British citizens. A conviction, especially for a serious domestic offence, would have had catastrophic consequences. He stood to lose his job, be unable to renew his visa, and his family, including two young children, would no longer have the right to reside in the UK.
Initial Objectives and Court Proceedings
My first aim was to have the bail conditions relaxed so that the client could return home, and secondly, to have the entire prosecution discontinued. Given the potential implications, the case required a specific and strategic approach. The initial court proceedings occurred weeks after my client had been arrested and unable to return to his family. Before the court appearance, I met with his wife at her request. The meeting had to be handled delicately; I made every effort to put her at ease and allowed her to speak freely while ensuring that I gathered all the necessary information. When the case called in court, I made detailed submissions to the sheriff regarding the bail conditions. Following this appearance, my client was permitted to return home, much to the delight of both him and his wife.
They both praised the way I handled the case in terms of preparation and advocacy. However, the focus now shifted to persuading the prosecution to discontinue the case. After considerable time spent on legal research and reviewing the case, I arranged a meeting with the prosecutor. In preparation for this meeting, I reviewed the prosecutor’s joint domestic protocol and prosecution code. I also requested documentation from the client about the impact a conviction would have on his employment and visa renewal. Being thoroughly prepared was crucial, as a strong presumption exists in favour of prosecuting all domestic cases. My submissions needed to be comprehensive and compelling to achieve discontinuation. During the meeting with the prosecutor, I discussed the public interest considerations outlined in the prosecution code. These considerations include the age, background, and personal circumstances of the accused, any mitigating factors, and the effect of the prosecution on the accused, witnesses, and others involved. These elements are often overlooked but are vital when considering whether to discontinue a case.
The outcome of my meeting with the prosecutor was that the case was discontinued. Consequently, my client was able to continue his employment, and his family’s settled life in Scotland was preserved. This case’s outcome could have been profoundly different had he not had robust legal representation. It underscores the importance of instructing a solicitor dedicated to meticulous research and preparation. Seeking legal advice as soon as you become aware of potential prosecution or police investigation is always advisable. Most people do not have the in-depth knowledge of legal complexities and consequences required to secure a successful outcome, particularly in serious cases.
