The criminal law team at Levy & McRae provides specialist advice at all levels of the Scottish criminal court system. The team’s expertise covers a diverse range of criminal matters including regulatory, financial and domestic crime. David McKie assumes a leading role in dealing with PR and media for high-net-worth clients. Fellow co-head Callum Anderson is regularly called upon to defend police officers and public officials, while co-head Neil Hay specialises in cases relating regulatory matters, fraud and historical allegations. Hay is supported by Andrew Seggie who has particular expertise in managing cases to protect the reputations of clients. Laurelle Johnstone brings a wealth of experience to the practice, joining from the COPFS in February 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Andrew Seggie was thorough in his communication, supportive and robust in his approach. Any legal jargon was explained in laymen terms to be easily understood. Advice was discussed where my voice and opinions were taken into account. I felt fully represented and supported throughout the process.’
‘The team at Levy & McRae are second to none and in a league of their own. The firm are very capable and have some of the highest sought out solicitors and partners in Scotland. The team are very supportive and take a genuine interest in their clients, from the moment they walk through the door and beyond.'
- 'The high level of resource enabled a more thorough exploration of the case and its preparation. The firm was willing and able to consider matters that I raised, giving me great comfort and confidence that I was in very capable hands.'
- 'I understand that the criminal practice team at Levy & McRae focuses on private clients, including professionals and high net worth individuals. I cannot imagine a better team than Levy & McRae to defend a person accused of a crime. My acquittal is a testament to the skill and preparation of the team in what was a complicated case.'
‘Levy & McRae have built a fantastic crime team and I consider them the go-to firm when I have a private client in need of criminal advice, especially for high-stakes matters.’
‘Neil Hay is such a safe pair of hands. I have no hesitation in recommending him to clients in need. His key strength is his ability to put clients at ease and his reliability - Neil goes to great lengths to make himself available which makes him a great person to have in your network.'
Work highlights
Successful defence of a professional client facing five charges of physically assaulting his two daughters.
Defended an international sportsman who had a contract in Scotland about 10 years ago, in a High Court trial for rape.
Acted in three cases at the same time for a client charged with a Section 1 under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act (DASA) in relation to coercive and controlling behaviour towards his ex-partner over a 3-year period.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Callum Anderson; Neil Hay; David McKie
Other key lawyers
Andrew Seggie; Laurelle Johnstone; Paul Anderson