A sharp slice of what matters in Scottish law
Scottish Edition
22nd September 2026
 
THE HOT STORY
Law firms urged to promote powers of attorney
Scottish law firms are being encouraged to promote powers of attorney among clients as The Dementia Trust expands its Planning Ahead pilot into a national campaign in February 2027. Participating firms will receive expert guidance on dementia, capacity and legal planning, and pledge to dedicate the month to raising awareness while donating 10% of POA income to the charity. The pilot in Edinburgh helped 151 people put powers of attorney in place, raised more than £7,000 and increased activity by 56% compared with February 2025. The campaign is backed by former public guardian Sandra McDonald and dementia expert Professor June Andrews.

 
COURTS
Retired volunteers bring compassion to Scotland’s courts
Karyn McCluskey, chief executive of Community Justice Scotland, reflects on the Listening Service at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, where retired volunteers provide support to people navigating an often intimidating environment. The volunteers help visitors find their way, and listen without judgment to witnesses, victims, families, accused people and others experiencing distress. Many have backgrounds in education, healthcare or public service, while some had never previously entered a court. McCluskey argues that, alongside verdicts and sentences, simply being heard can be an important part of justice.

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CASES
Farmer cleared over claims he used wild boar to scare wife
Farmer James Mackie, 54, has been acquitted of charges relating to a three-year campaign of alleged abuse against his ex-partner, Frances Docherty. The trial, which was subject to more than 30 adjournments, concluded with Sheriff Sukhwinder Kaur Gill saying the quality of the evidence had been affected by the lengthy proceedings. Docherty described the relationship as “toxic” and accused Mackie of terrorising her. Prosecutors said Mackie put a boar on land around Barnhill Farm, near Inchinnan, where Docherty was living after their split, “in the knowledge that she was fearful” of it. Mackie denied the allegations and said he had acted fairly during their divorce. Following the verdict, Docherty said: “I feel really let down by the justice system.”
Two more charged over West Lothian murder
Two men have appeared at Livingston Sheriff Court charged with the murder of William Watson, 35, in Armadale, West Lothian, on September 12. Corrie McQueen, 29, and Martin Patterson, 44, are also accused of attempting to defeat the ends of justice. Another man, Frank McCarthy, 57, was previously charged.
Dundee joiner jailed for fraud
Michael Cox, a joiner from Dundee, has been sentenced to seven months in prison for defrauding a Monifieth couple out of £9,000. He promised to renovate their home but only removed their kitchen without completing any work. Sheriff Mark Thorley condemned Cox's actions as a "flagrant abuse of trust".
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Watchdog responds to councillors after no confidence vote
The Standards Commission for Scotland has responded after Edinburgh councillors unanimously backed a historic vote of no confidence in the watchdog. The commission said councillors could scrutinise council officers without breaching their code of conduct, which requires courtesy and prohibits publicly undermining employees. The row follows a judicial review that found the commission acted unlawfully by preventing Glasgow councillor Fiona Higgins from submitting evidence in a misconduct case. The commission is appealing the ruling, saying greater clarity is needed over its implications for fair hearings.
SNP outlines council replacement plan
Government proposals could see Scotland’s 32 councils replaced by six to 10 regional authorities, alongside 120 to 160 more local “community” authorities. The 1,800-word paper proposes giving regional bodies responsibility for larger planning decisions, education and economic development, as well as key services including waste management, cleaning and early learning. Community authorities would oversee local planning, licensing and the historic environment. Separate arrangements would be required for Scotland’s islands. 
TAX
Scotland's property tax revenue hits record high
Scotland's Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) revenue has reached a record £760m, according to research by Rettie. The analysis reveals that 70% of house sales are now subject to LBTT, with revenues increasing by 13% in 2025/26 due to rising house prices and transaction numbers.
ECONOMY
Edinburgh Airport plans £500m expansion
Edinburgh Airport has unveiled a £500m investment programme to expand its terminal and infrastructure over the next five years. The plans include new gates, more aircraft stands, an enlarged check-in hall and departure lounge, new retail and food areas, and international arrivals and baggage reclaim facilities, with the terminal footprint set to rise by 60%. Airport chief Gordon Dewar said it was the biggest investment in the airport's history.
OTHER
Pioneering sheriff Alastair Carmichael dies
Sheriff Alastair Carmichael, a pioneering figure in Scottish justice, passed away on September 19. Diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in early 2024, he continued to preside over cases using innovative technology, including synthetic voice applications. Sheriff Principal Gillian Wade KC praised his “heroic” determination, while Lord President Lord Pentland highlighted his commitment to justice. Carmichael's use of the SpeakUnique app allowed him to conduct jury trials, showcasing his resilience. He remained active in public service until his death, inspiring many with his dedication despite his illness.

 

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