Business Details
29 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Criminal Defence Solicitors in Livingston
Central Court Lawyers, established in 1997, are a leading criminal defence firm based in Livingston, West Lothian. Our reputation for excellence stems from decades of dedicated legal practice, including landmark cases in Scotlands highest courts. Recognised by both Legal 500 and Chambers UK, we are the only firm outside Edinburgh or Glasgow to achieve this distinction. Our team provides 24/7 representation at police stations and courts across Scotland, from Justice of the Peace Courts to the High Court of Justiciary.We prioritise clear communication, ensuring clients understand their rights and options throughout the legal process. With a focus on continuous improvement, we invest in staff training and technology to maintain the highest standards of client service. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our legal aid expertise, with most clients qualifying for financial assistance. This client-first approach has earned us consistent praise in reviews and a trusted position within the community.
Services
Criminal Defence
Court Representation
Legal Aid Assistance
Police Station Advice
24/7 Helpline
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 police station and court representation.
- Recognised in Legal 500 and Chambers UK guides.
- Handle cases from fixed penalty notices to High Court appeals.
- Specialists in securing legal aid for clients.
- Proven track record in shaping Scottish criminal law.
Associations and certifications
- Legal 500
- Chambers UK
What people say
Expert legal representation
Successful case outcomes
24/7 availability
Client-focused approach
Recognised by Legal 500
Services
Criminal Defence
Our criminal defence service provides expert legal support for clients facing allegations ranging from minor offences to serious criminal charges. We represent clients at police stations and courts across Scotland, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the process. With experience in all levels of Scottish courts, we deliver tailored strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Legal Aid Assistance
We specialise in helping clients access legal aid, conducting free initial assessments of eligibility based on financial circumstances. Most clients qualify for assistance, including those in employment, with minimal contributions required in rare cases. Our team guides clients through the application process to remove financial barriers to quality legal representation.
Court Representation
From Justice of the Peace Courts to the High Court of Justiciary, we provide skilled court representation for all case types. Our solicitors prepare cases thoroughly, keeping clients informed at every stage. We have a proven record in both summary trials and complex jury cases, ensuring robust defence strategies tailored to individual circumstances.
Police Station Advice
Available 24/7, our police station service offers immediate legal advice and representation during interviews. Clients have the right to consult our solicitors, who will attend stations across Scotland when required. We ensure clients understand their rights and provide clear guidance to protect their interests during investigations.
High Court Appeals
We handle complex High Court appeals, leveraging our deep understanding of Scottish criminal law to challenge unjust outcomes. Our team, including solicitor advocate Ian Bryce, investigates every defence angle and presents compelling arguments. This expertise has contributed to landmark legal reforms benefiting future clients.
People
Neil Robertson
Founder
With over 25 years' experience, Neil founded Central Court Lawyers in 1997. His landmark cases have shaped Scottish criminal law, including establishing suspects' right to legal representation during police interviews. Recognised for his meticulous approach, he remains a trusted advocate in West Lothian.
Craig Scott
Partner
Craig joined in 2017 and became partner in 2022. He specialises in Sheriff and High Court cases, known for his client-focused approach and strong advocacy skills. His work has earned consistent positive feedback from clients and peers across Scotland's legal community.
Clare Young
Trainee Solicitor
Clare began her traineeship in 2023 after graduating with distinction in law. Passionate about criminal justice, she focuses on empathetic client care and challenging stereotypes in legal representation. She aims to build a reputation for excellence in West Lothian during her training.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialise in?
We focus exclusively on criminal defence law, representing clients at police stations and courts across Scotland for offences ranging from traffic violations to serious criminal charges.
Can I get legal aid?
Most clients qualify for legal aid following a free financial assessment. We guide you through the process to ensure access to representation regardless of financial circumstances.
Are you available outside office hours?
Yes, our 24/7 helpline ensures immediate legal support. We attend police stations across Scotland at any time to provide urgent representation and advice.
What court experience do you have?
We handle cases in all Scottish criminal courts, including Justice of the Peace Courts, Sheriff Courts, and the High Court of Justiciary, with a strong track record of successful outcomes.
How much will my case cost?
Most clients use legal aid at no upfront cost. For private cases, we discuss competitive fees in advance to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected expenses.
