Two Scottish court officer firms join national group

Two long established court officer firms in Scotland have joined Marston Holdings, which styles itself the UK's largest judicial services group.

Scott + Co, the largest such business in Scotland with 13 offices across the country from Dumfries to Orkney, and Perth-based AA Hutton, which also operates from Dundee, Dunfermline and Forfar, have both joined the company that also owns debt collection and enforcement businesses across England & Wales.

Scott & Co has contracts with leading Scottish local authorities including Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, and also works on behalf of a wide range of solicitors and businesses. The Marston group works for clients including HM Courts & Tribunals Service, HM Revenue & Customs, the Legal Aid Agency, the Child Support Agency, Transport for London, the Student Loans Company, 196 local authorities and 500 solicitor firms across England & Wales.

The two Scottish businesses have 275 staff, including 46 sheriff officers and messengers at arms, and the enlarged UK group will have around 2,000 staff and contractors. Scott + Co also sponsor the annual Scottish Legal Awards.

Marston chief executive, Gareth Hughes, commented: “Scott + Co and AA Hutton are outstanding businesses that have very strong client relationships, high levels of expertise and a robust focus on ethics. We will invest further in both businesses as part of a long-term growth plan.”

David and Joy McLaughlin remain in their current roles as managing partner and partner of Scott + Co. David McLaughlin commented: “Becoming part of Marston Holdings was a natural decision for us. We are well matched in terms of ethical standards, reputation and our leading positions in our respective marketplaces. Our commitment to our clients and to the provision of local services remains.

"Our existing management teams and staff will continue to deliver service excellence from our established office network and to play a key part in the future growth of our business. This is an exciting chapter in our development, enabling us to extend our range of services to our clients.”