Department profile
Brodies LLP

Civil Liberties & Human Rights

UK Guide 2026 : Scotland

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Brodies LLP

Rankings

About

Provided by Brodies LLP

Brodies acts in significant, high profile human rights cases in the Scottish courts, including challenges to the Scottish Parliament, based on the European Convention on Human Rights.

Our solicitor advocates Christine O’Neill and Niall McLean are the only two solicitor advocates on the Scottish Government’s list of Standing Junior Counsel and the Equality and Human Rights Commission's panel of counsel in Scotland. 

We are the first port of call for many Scottish public authority clients requiring human rights advice, especially in complex and sensitive matters. We have long-standing expertise and experience across the full spectrum of human rights and civil liberties issues, including:

  • deprivation of liberty;
  • right to a fair trial;
  • freedom of expression;
  • rights of conscience and religion;
  • property rights;
  • right to private and family life;
  • disability discrimination and other equality issues;
  • forced marriage protection;
  • rights to benefit support;
  • asylum and immigration; and
  • information rights.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Civil Liberties & Human Rights - Scotland

Band 2

What the Team is Known For

Brodies is regularly instructed by the Scottish government and local authorities on matters involving multifaceted human rights issues. It offers seasoned expertise in a wide range of topics ranging from healthcare and social welfare to education and immigration. The firm is also skilled at advising corporate clients on their compliance with international human rights law and the Equality Act 2010.

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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Brodies supported the law reform charity JUSTICE with the preparation of a handbook concerning the rule of law for all Scottish MPs elected in the 2024 election.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Brodies have been very helpful. There is no matter which is too small and no effort which is too great for them.

    Civil Liberties & Human Rights respondentUK

  • Brodies provides a responsible and solution-focused service.

    Civil Liberties & Human Rights respondentUK

  • With Brodies, we almost always got a quick response and had access to relevant team members.

    Civil Liberties & Human Rights respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Christine O'Neill
    Christine O'Neill

    Christine O'Neill

    Christine O'Neill practises across a wide range of civil liberties and public law matters. She is a frequent choice for public bodies seeking defence and is experienced in handling some of the most sophisticated and significant cases in Scotland. O'Neill is a member of the Equality and Human Rights Commission's A Panel.

    • Christine takes a responsible and solutions-focused approach. She is a trusted adviser in all matters of public law.

      Civil Liberties & Human Rights respondentUK

    • Christine's achievements are tremendous.

      Civil Liberties & Human Rights respondentUK

    • Christine is regarded as a standout in this area.

      Civil Liberties & Human Rights respondentUK
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Ranked Individuals at Brodies LLP (1)

Scotland

Members

Provided by Brodies LLP

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