Administrative & Public Law

Aidan O'Neill KC is involved in cases of the most profound constitutional significance, appearing before the highest courts in the UK and EU. He specialises in challenges against government policy on public law, human rights or EU law grounds. He is renowned for his willingness to argue difficult cases, predominantly on behalf of petitioners.

Douglas Ross KC has extensive experience representing the Scottish Government in complex judicial reviews. He also accepts instructions from petitioners. He has particular expertise in public law cases involving prisons and human rights law. Public international law is another notable area of focus.

Ian Forrester KC's return to private practice is a highly significant development for the Scottish Bar. Until 2020 he sat for the UK on the bench of the General Court of the European Union. To the Faculty of Advocates he brings immense experience of legal practice in a host of areas, including competition and international trade law.

Laura-Anne van der Westhuizen KC is an impressive advocate who operates a broad public law practice drawing on commercial, planning, environmental and human rights expertise. She acts for petitioners and respondents and is also active in prominent public inquiries.

Timothy Young has a strong public law practice featuring a variety of instructions by both pursuers and defenders. He is notably knowledgeable about matters of policing.

Paul Reid garners praise for his strong expertise in judicial review. He is experienced in the representation of government departments and other public bodies in a broad range of matters ranging from constitutional and EU law to professional regulation and procurement.

Usman Tariq has a busy public and administrative law practice, in which he acts mostly for central government. He has strong experience of judicial reviews concerning EU, human rights and immigration law.