Legal news

Pre-trial forms revised to cover graphic video evidence
Judges act to avoid cases like Smith v HM Advocate

Shoosmiths names Janette Speed to head Scottish offices
Further appointments made to lead Edinburgh and Glasgow offices

ShepWedd signals Aberdeen growth through office move
Refurbished Albyn Place base offers scope to double headcount

Edinburgh essay competition seeks views of the future
Student challenge commemorates seminal Journal article from 1968

Report reveals growth in Scots charity legacies
Average 7% growth leaves potential for much more

Carloway calls for constructive approach to courts future
Address for new legal year seeks to dispel myths over SCTS plans

Mental health a big problem for lawyers: LawCare survey
Study finds widespread anxiety, low mood and depression along with burnout

Ministers consult on "Anne's law" for care home visits
Views invited on rights relating to designated visitors

Grants available for COVID-hit tenants in arrears
Funding for councils to support those who might become homeless

Aberdeen Bar Association elects new leaders
Ian Woodward-Nutt becomes President as Stuart Murray steps down

SLAB consults on assessment of accounts
Travel and subsistence changes proposed; views sought for accounts guidance

GBA members to boycott holiday custody courts
Action announced in protest at unequal treatment and "chronic underfunding"

Assisted Dying Bill proposal goes out to consultation
Member's bill would allow terminally ill to end their lives by medication

Naomi Pryde is lawyer of the year
Winner 'delighted' with award success

Legal challenge to nightclub vaccine passports
Industry body opposes Sturgeon plan

Warnings to be issued over Class A drugs
Lord Advocate announces new police guidelines

Criminal business at pre-COVID levels during August
SCTS figures show most categories at or above pre-COVID numbers

Sentencing process guideline in force from today
Eight step process intended to bring openness and transparency

Three members' Bill proposals lodged at Holyrood
Bills would cover right to food, disabled young people and worker injuries

Pinsent Masons makes senior climate change appointments
Euan McVicar rejoins firm as Michael Watson named to lead team

Macfadyen Lecture to discuss judicial independence
Texas Chief Justice Nathan L Hecht to speak on how to protect independence

Lorna Jack to receive Lifetime Achievement Award
Retiring Society chief executive to be honoured at Scottish Legal Awards

Council tax and rating cases moving to tribunal chamber
Draft regulations cover council tax reduction and valuation appeals

Lords call for better scrutiny of trade agreements
Report says Government must commit to meaningful early engagement