Facing a criminal investigation or charge in Scotland requires immediate, expert representation. The Scottish legal system has distinct procedures, making the selection of a highly competent Glasgow solicitor vital. The leading criminal defence firms in Glasgow have been evaluated based on their courtroom advocacy in the Sheriff Court and High Court, track record of discontinued charges, client care standards, and fee transparency.
The following four practices represent the premier criminal defence firms in Glasgow, selected for their formidable legal representation and dedicated client support.
How much do criminal defence lawyer fees cost in Glasgow?
The cost of criminal defence lawyer fees in Glasgow typically ranges from £200 to £500 per hour, while fixed-fee arrangements for straightforward cases usually start from £1,000.
John Kilcoyne & Co.
Editorially SelectedLocation: 201 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4HZ
Contact: +44 141 423 1400
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
John Kilcoyne & Co. is a distinguished Glasgow practice providing comprehensive criminal defence representation. The firm is highly regarded for robust courtroom advocacy and proactive case preparation, conducting detailed consultations to build strong defence strategies. A dedicated 24-hour emergency service delivers rapid assistance during police interviews and urgent situations, consistently helping clients secure discontinued prosecutions.
Pros
- Broad experience representing clients in the Sheriff and High Courts
- Proven record of securing discontinued prosecutions and dismissed charges
- Meticulous case preparation supported by thorough client consultations
- Dependable 24-hour emergency assistance and police station attendance
“I cannot recommend John Kilcoyne enough. He succeeded when others had said we wouldn’t. Kept us up to speed throughout and answered all of our questions promptly. He was absolutely fantastic.”
- Jacqueline Pettigrew, Google Review
“Frankly, he seems like a great lawyer with great competence and experience. He has a sophisticated style and a group of friendly assistants. I have a court session on September 17, 2025 at 2 pm. He promised me that he will get rid of this problem 100%. I will come back in a new comment and tell you about my fate.”
- Dia Khalil, Google Review
Beltrami & Company
Editorially SelectedLocation: 83 Carlton Pl, Glasgow G5 9TD
Contact: +44 141 429 2262
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Beltrami & Company is an eminent Scottish firm with more than 60 years of experience, having represented clients in over 150,000 cases across all court tiers. Recognized by Chambers and The Legal 500, the firm is highly acclaimed for formidable courtroom advocacy, decisive cross-examinations, and securing reduced sentences or mid-trial dismissals. The solicitors deliver compassionate, tailored advice and maintain a 24-hour contact line.
Pros
- A legacy of over six decades in criminal defence representation
- Renowned for courtroom advocacy and strategic cross-examinations
- Bespoke, partner-led attention tailored to individual circumstances
- Nationally recognized by major legal directories, including Chambers and The Legal 500
- 24-hour crisis helpline with rapid-response capabilities
“Somehow, gratefully, I ended up leaving a message with Beltrami after calling a long list of lawyers sent by the Legal Aid. I had no idea what I needed, or what to ask for. I was called back shortly after, even though it was clearly closing time. I spoke to Alan Gravelle who listened to everything I said, treated me with the utmost of respect, professionalism and compassion: despite knowing that I did not need a criminal defence lawyer. If this is the level of service given to someone who would not be a client: it only highlights the utmost professional care provided with their service. Thank you for your advice, and being human.”
- Linda, Google Review
“Thank you Beltrami solicitors. They represented me at fairly short notice. I got a very fair outcome with my case. I would use them again, and also would recommend them. Thanks in particular to Chris, acting for Beltrami, on my behalf.”
- William, Google Review
Fleming & Reid Solicitors
Editorially SelectedLocation: 180 Hope St, Glasgow G2 2UE
Contact: +44 141 331 1144
Opening Hours:
- Monday: 9:00 am to 3:30 pm
- Tuesday: 8:45 am to 3:30 pm
- Wednesday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Fleming & Reid Solicitors delivers exceptional criminal defence advocacy throughout all Scottish courts, with a strong focus on high-stakes and complex criminal trials. The practice is known for detail-oriented case analysis and thorough legal preparation, consistently helping clients secure dropped charges or avoid custodial sentences. Their team ensures clear, jargon-free communication and accessible advice at every stage.
Pros
- Extensive experience handling serious and high-risk criminal cases
- Thorough, detail-driven trial preparation and evidence analysis
- Transparent, jargon-free communication throughout the legal process
- Client-focused fee structures and transparent funding advice
- Round-the-clock emergency contact availability
“Brian Cooney dealt with a very serious case for me. I was facing jail and he managed to avoid it for me. Thanks also to Debbie and the staff in the office for all their help. I have no hesitation in recommending Fleming and Reid to anyone needing help. Their attention to detail and advice is second to none.”
- Gerard Grant, Google Review
“I had a great experience with this firm. I had the opportunity to watch Michael Gallen and Brian Cooney prepare and defend a case in the High Court. Their customer service is exceptional. I was very impressed by their attention to detail and the level of care towards a case. 5 stars!”
- Victoria Scott, Google Review
Richard Freeman & Co.
Editorially SelectedLocation: 40 New City Rd, Glasgow G4 9JT
Contact: +44 800 567 7810
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Richard Freeman & Co. is a specialist criminal defence practice highly regarded for its expertise in road traffic and motoring offences. Over more than 25 years of specialized practice, the firm has established a strong reputation for securing acquittals by challenging technical legal details and police evidence. The solicitors are celebrated for strategic representation and direct, clear guidance regarding options and potential outcomes.
Pros
- Specialised technical expertise in road traffic and motoring law
- Impressive track record of securing acquittals and dismissed charges
- Meticulous preparation and rigorous challenges to technical evidence
- Decisive courtroom representation led by experienced senior specialists
“Exceptional Legal Expertise and Representation. Richard Freeman provided outstanding legal representation in my recent DUI case. His depth of knowledge and command of the law were truly exceptional: it was clear he understood every detail far better than the prosecution. From start to finish, Richard demonstrated professionalism, confidence, and genuine expertise. Thanks to his skill and dedication, my case was successfully resolved. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking first-class legal defence.”
- Mark Innes, Google Review
“Thank you! Was really amazed by my outcome, was going to be charged with a drunk driving offence, I was not hopeful, however, Richard Freeman was excellent, very knowledgeable and had done his research, he really is the best, thank you again.”
- Nicola Almass, Google Review
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James Johnson
Finance and professional services writer
James covers solicitors, accountants, mortgage brokers, financial advisers, recruitment, HR and regulated professional services.