At McSporrans, we provide professional criminal defence representation and legal advice to individuals facing charges across Scotland. Based in Edinburgh, we specialise in every aspect of criminal law, covering matters ranging from road traffic offences and breach of the peace to fraud, assault, theft, misuse of drugs and murder cases. Our solicitors appear in court daily and are committed to protecting our clients interests with experienced and dependable legal support. Whether you require privately funded representation or qualify for Legal Aid, we are prepared to assist you with straightforward guidance and effective defence strategies tailored to your circumstances. We offer a free initial consultation and encourage anyone seeking immediate legal advice to contact our team directly.We understand that legal difficulties can arise unexpectedly, which is why we make ourselves available 24 hours a day to provide advice and assistance whenever it is required. If you are arrested or charged during the night or over the weekend, we are ready to respond promptly and support you throughout the legal process. From our office on Frederick Street in Edinburgh, we also represent clients from Livingston, South Queensferry, Bathgate, Linlithgow, the wider Lothian area and beyond. Our priority is to stand firmly by our clients and deliver reliable criminal defence representation when it matters most.
Served areas
- Edinburgh, East Lothiand and West Lothian
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Follow us
Services
Criminal Defence
Report
Road traffic offences
Report
Road traffic offences may include the areas of drink driving, driving offences, speeding tickets or any other element of road traffic law. Cases involving dangerous driving, careless driving, speeding and possible disqualification under 'totting up' are governed by the Road Traffic Acts. Such offences can have a disastrous effect on life at home, and at work. Our team of criminal solicitors have extensive experience in defending every type of road traffic offence including:
Speeding
Getting Your Licence Back
Careless Driving
Offences under the Road Traffic Act
Speeding
Getting Your Licence Back
Careless Driving
Offences under the Road Traffic Act
Legal Aid & Funding
Report
Legal Aid is a vital component of Scotland's justice system. The provision of Legal Aid ensures that people who are otherwise unable to afford legal representation obtain access to justice.
Legal Aid is met through public funds. Applications for Legal Aid are administered by the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) , based in Edinburgh.
Legal Aid is met through public funds. Applications for Legal Aid are administered by the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) , based in Edinburgh.
Reviews (4)
Barrie Oliver
May 29, 2026
Darren Hannah
Nov 24, 2021
Ricardo Silva
Nov 23, 2020
After almost a decade in Scotland I had a big downturn on all aspects of my life and, as per Murphy's law, worst situations still to happen. Got some traffic charges after taking some bad choices and for the first time I had a case against me in court. I was worried, without knowing how the judicial system worked, contacted a few solicitors and as soon I spoke with Andy I had to have him taking care of my case. Was dealt swiftly, with professionalism and friendliness! Really 'fought in my corner' and took every worries I had, hope I don't need his services again but if anything happens I will contact McSporrans. Thank you for everything.
Douglas Dunbar
Jul 14, 2018
Almost one year ago, I was unfortunate enough to be charged with 3 criminal offences. As someone who had not previously had dealings with the Court system or the Police in that context, it was a confusing and worrying time for both me and my family. I asked around my professional friends to recommend a competent and experienced criminal lawyer and McSporrans name came up on several occasions.
My case had various complications such as vulnerable witness applications and was not straightforward in many respects. Nobody can guarantee the outcome in court proceedings but I have to say that throughout the whole process, Andrew Houston, of McSporrans guided me, explained the various stages and provided me with a frank and honest appraisal of what to expect and our best course of action. Andrew is a consummate professional and I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending his services to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation as me.
It was not just his command of the legal processes and knowledge of the law which impressed me. It is clear that he is well respected within the system and his courteous manner goes a long way to find agreement, consensus and common sense within the system. Thankfully, I had a positive outcome in my instance and I will be eternally grateful to Andrew Houston whose efforts and ability fell far beyond my expectations. If I could give 6 stars to McSporrans, I would.
My case had various complications such as vulnerable witness applications and was not straightforward in many respects. Nobody can guarantee the outcome in court proceedings but I have to say that throughout the whole process, Andrew Houston, of McSporrans guided me, explained the various stages and provided me with a frank and honest appraisal of what to expect and our best course of action. Andrew is a consummate professional and I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending his services to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation as me.
It was not just his command of the legal processes and knowledge of the law which impressed me. It is clear that he is well respected within the system and his courteous manner goes a long way to find agreement, consensus and common sense within the system. Thankfully, I had a positive outcome in my instance and I will be eternally grateful to Andrew Houston whose efforts and ability fell far beyond my expectations. If I could give 6 stars to McSporrans, I would.