Civil Liberties & Human Rights
UK Guide 2025 : Scotland
Band 2
Contact number
0131 228 3777About
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
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.
Work Highlights
- Brodies was instructed to provide a joint opinion as counsel about the Scottish government's guidance on the availability of ongoing NHS care for people living with dementia, and the compatibility of the guidance with equalities and human rights legislation.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Brodies provides exceptional service to statutory bodies, whether at local authority or health board level."
"Brodies' advice was detailed, clear and practical. It was clear to the client what the issues were and what legal options were available."
"The team provides an excellent level of expertise and timely responses."
"Brodies provides exceptional service to statutory bodies, whether at local authority or health board level."
"Brodies' advice was detailed, clear and practical. It was clear to the client what the issues were and what legal options were available."
"The team provides an excellent level of expertise and timely responses."
Notable Practitioners
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 is knowledgeable and focused. She is an extremely hard worker."
"Her ability to give sage advicethat is both clear and shows sensitivity to clients’ needs and challenges is a blend that makes her highly trusted and valued."