Criminal Law Scotland

Our Criminal Defence solicitors can help you with all criminal law matters, including:

• Assault: An assault is a physical attack on another person, for example in a fight. An assault might be viewed as ‘aggravated’ if a weapon is used, or if there is, for example, a sectarian or racial motive behind the assault. Defences might include self-defence and provocation.

• Drugs: Most drug offences are found in the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, for example, unlawful possession, possession with intent to supply and offering to supply. The seriousness of drugs charges, and potential sentences, vary greatly, and we will always seek to identify all potential defences and mitigating factors.

• Theft: Theft can range from shoplifting a few relatively inexpensive items to extortion of significant sums of money. In all cases, the prosecution must prove that the offence was intentional and dishonest. We will ensure that any mitigating factors are properly communicated to the police and, if necessary, in court, helping you build the strongest possible defence.

• Breach of the Peace: This is one of Scotland’s most frequently charged offences. Essentially, the offence covers any disorderly conduct which is severe enough to cause alarm or fear in other members of the public. We can defend clients against an accusation of breach of the peace by showing that the conduct was reasonable in particular circumstances. We will always strenuously challenge the prosecution’s case.

If you or a loved one have been charged with any of these offences, or any other crime, please contact us as soon as possible. Allowing us to become involved in the case at an early stage will help us to make sure that your rights are protected (for example, ensuring that you are not held at a police station or interviewed for longer than necessary). Working with you from the outset will also help us to build an effective defence, and to identify all the relevant facts.

Our Criminal Defence Solicitor

Our partner Gordon is a highly regarded criminal defence lawyer and appears in court on a daily basis, representing clients on a variety of matters, from minor breaches of the peace to more serious cases, Sheriff court and Jury matters and regularly deal with High Court cases. Gordon Ghee is the senior partner in our Court department. He has over 30 years of criminal defence experience, having worked for Taylor & Henderson before joining Nellany & Co. as senior court partner. He is highly regarded in the legal community, having been both Dean and Secretary of the Kilmarnock Faculty of Solicitors. Since 2016, Gordon has been appointed as a Peer Reviewer by the Scottish Legal Aid Board to monitor standards in other solicitors’ work and sits on the Appeals and Regulatory Committee of the Law Society of Scotland. Gordon has expertise in Criminal Defence and Road Traffic Defence work. Gordon is always happy to help and advise clients. He is a highly skilled court lawyer and has a wealth of experience in building successful legal arguments and securing the best possible outcome for his clients.

Legal Aid in Scotland

Legal Aid provides financial assistance for those charged with a criminal offence. Whilst aid is sometimes available automatically, you will usually need to apply through a solicitor, and show that you are financially eligible. As well as preparing you for dealings with police and legal proceedings, we will help you ascertain whether you are eligible for Legal Aid, and apply for finances on your behalf.

Contact our Criminal Defence Lawyers in Ayrshire

If you have been accused of a crime, it is very important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible. This will be a stressful time for you, and finding a lawyer who you can trust to fight your corner can help put your mind at rest. From initial police interview through to court appearance, you can be absolutely sure you are in safe hands with our highly experienced solicitors, who will put forward the best possible defence on your behalf. Contact us early for help and advice or call 01294 464 175. We are approved by the Scottish Legal Aid Board and registered to provide criminal legal assistance.