Michael Yellowlees, expert in Scottish baronial and heraldic law, clan law, and feudal dignities is a key name in the team at Lindsays. The practice is known for handling complex agricultural tenancies and crofting law matters as well as renewable energy projects, rural diversification projects, sales and purchase of rural property, and forestry transactions. Leanne Gordon is a crofting expert and team lead in place of Yellowlees as of September 2025. Alistair Duncan has over 25 years of rural property experience. Lewis Crofts focuses on renewables projects, and Eilidh Robertson is another key name.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Lindsays team have ably assisted me on two occasions in the past decade. They have shown a detailed understanding of the complexities of a) setting up a renewable energy company and its associated contractual and property issues b) disposing of a large property.'
'Their personnel demonstrated an excellent knowledge of all legal issues, focused attention-to-detail, excellent communication and implementation skills and a patient and friendly bedside manner throughout.’
‘Mike Yellowlees showed great depth of knowledge, understanding, and accessibility.'
‘Lindsays have provided a long-term reliable service. Partners and staff provide invaluable advice and are always available when required.’
‘Michael Yellowlees has been a constant, he has considerable experience and provides clear informed advice. Eilidh Robertson has become a very important and valued member of the team.’
‘I work primarily with Alistair Duncan and Lyndsey White, who stand out for their expertise, innovation, and dedication. Their ability to exceed expectations, adapt to challenges, and deliver results is top-tier.’
‘Michael Yellowlees is an expert in baronial and heraldic work, almost certainly the pre-eminent leader in this field in Scotland.’
'The team we work with has extensive knowledge in agricultural and crofting law, which greatly benefits our work. We would like to thank Eilidh Robertson and Michael Yellowlees from Rural, who have great qualities and skills and the ability to navigate through complex legal challenges.'
'We cannot fault the team who have a good reputation and have recently prioritised an urgent project, which gives us great confidence in the firm as they have been understanding and responding promptly to queries.'
'Lindsays stands out for its strong practical knowledge, responsiveness, and availability, making it a trusted partner for businesses navigating complex legal matters. As a company primarily operating under English law, the team has been instrumental in guiding us through unfamiliar legal landscapes.'
Key clients
- His Grace, Torquhil Campbell, 13th Duke of Argyll, Chief of Clan Campbell
- The Trustees of the Josephine Marshall Trust, Barguillean Estate
- Brady Brim De-Forest, Baron of Balvaird
- Scottish Water
- Little Keills Holdings Limited
- Alex Howard, 5th Baron Strathcona and Mount Royal
Work highlights
Advising a landowner in the Scottish Borders on a high value (approximately £8m) renewable energy project.
Advising a number of Scottish and international clients in the sale and purchase of 7 feudal dignities and submitting 17 Petitions for Arms to the Lyon Court.
Advising Little Keills Holdings Limited regarding the purchase of four crofts extending to 273 acres and associated apportionment.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Leanne Gordon
Other key lawyers
Michael Yellowlees; Alistair Duncan; Lewis Crofts; Eilidh Robertson; Lyndsey White