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29 Years
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Trusted Criminal Defence Solicitors in Scotland
Established in March 1997, McCusker McElroy & Gallanagh is a leading criminal defence law firm based in the West of Scotland. Our team comprises 10 dedicated specialist solicitors with over 110 years of combined experience in Scottish criminal law. We represent clients in all courts across Scotland, including the High Court of Justiciary, Sheriff Courts, and Justice of the Peace Courts. Our practice has consistently ranked among the top criminal defence firms in the Scottish Legal Aid tables, reflecting our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. We pride ourselves on providing tailored legal strategies, with fees competitively priced to suit individual case requirements.

Our nationwide client base, built through word of mouth over 26 years, underscores our reputation for reliable and effective representation. We specialise in complex High Court cases, road traffic law, and proceeds of crime matters, ensuring robust defence strategies for every client. Our solicitors are recognised for their expertise in appeals, precognition of witnesses, and preparation of legal documentation. With a 24-hour contact line and a focus on accessibility, we ensure timely support for urgent legal needs. Our dedication to transparency and client-centric service has solidified our position as one of Scotlands most trusted criminal defence firms.
Services
Criminal Defence Law Road Traffic Law Proceeds of Crime High Court Representation Sheriff Court Prosecutions
Details
  • Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
  • We have over 30 years of experience in criminal law in Scotland
  • Our team of 10 specialists offers tailored legal strategies
  • We operate nationwide with a proven track record in High Court cases
  • Client satisfaction built through word of mouth referrals
  • Competitive fees tailored to individual case requirements
Services
Criminal Defence Law
We provide specialist criminal defence representation across Scotland. Our solicitors handle complex cases in High Court, Sheriff Courts, and Justice of the Peace Courts. With over 110 years of combined experience, we deliver tailored strategies for serious charges including murder, rape, and drug supply.
Road Traffic Law
Our dedicated road traffic law service addresses prosecutions in Justice of the Peace Courts. We defend cases involving driving offences, public order violations, and shoplifting. Our expertise includes securing acquittals in high-volume traffic prosecutions across Scotland.
High Court Representation
We specialise in High Court of Justiciary cases for severe charges like murder and rape. Our solicitors prepare defences, manage witness precognition, and instruct counsel. With extensive trial experience, we ensure robust representation in Scotlands most senior criminal court.
Sheriff Court Prosecutions
Our team handles daily trials, proofs, and bail applications in all 46 Sheriff Courts. We manage summary and solemn level prosecutions, leveraging decades of experience to secure favourable outcomes in jury and sheriff-led proceedings.
Appeals
We challenge miscarriages of justice through appeals in the Court of Criminal Appeal. Our solicitors have successfully overturned convictions and sentences, utilising deep knowledge of appellate law to rectify legal errors in Scottish courts.
People
Terry Gallanagh
Director
LLB(Hons) qualified solicitor with specialist expertise in criminal law. Over 25 years' experience managing complex High Court cases and appeals. Recognised for strategic defence planning and client advocacy.
David Nicholson
Director
Qualified solicitor with extensive experience in criminal defence. Specialises in Sheriff Court prosecutions and road traffic law. Proven track record in securing acquittals through meticulous case preparation.
Charlie McCusker
Consultant
Founding partner with 30+ years in criminal law. Expert in High Court trials and proceeds of crime cases. Instrumental in establishing the firm's reputation for excellence in Scottish legal aid tables.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialise in?
We focus exclusively on criminal defence law, including High Court trials, Sheriff Court prosecutions, road traffic offences, and appeals.
Do you handle cases outside Glasgow?
Yes, we operate nationwide across all 46 Sheriff Courts and the High Court of Justiciary in Scotland.
How are your fees structured?
Fees are tailored to individual case complexity. We provide competitive quotes after reviewing your specific circumstances and legal needs.
Can you represent me in a High Court case?
Yes, we are one of Scotland's leading High Court practices with extensive experience in murder, rape, and serious drug supply cases.
Do you offer 24/7 emergency legal support?
Yes, our 24-hour contact line ensures immediate assistance for urgent legal matters across Scotland.