Solicitors

Solicitors can give you advice and assistance about criminal matters, going to court, and compensation claims.

If you do not have a solicitor or are looking to find a new one, the Law Society of Scotland has lists of all solicitors working in Scotland. They also have a section within its website which will help you to find a solicitor. You may also be able to get the name of a solicitor from Victim Support Scotland, or your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

You may be entitled to Legal Aid to help with costs. If you want to apply for Legal Aid you should complete an application form for advice and assistance. There are forms available on the Scottish Legal Aid Board website. A solicitor should help you fill in the form and will be able to tell you immediately whether you are eligible for help under advice and assistance; and if so, whether you have to make a financial contribution.

For more information about the Law Society and help from solicitors visit The Law Society of Scotland website.

The Law Society's Code of Conduct explains what professional conduct is expected of solicitors. For more information please visit The Law Society of Scotland, Code of Conduct webpage.

Jargon Buster

Some words in this website have legal meanings, which may be different to what you would expect, or may be unfamiliar to you. This section explains these words as well as some other words you may come across in the criminal justice system.