Morton Fraser MacRoberts possesses a strong book of work acting across the full spectrum of property litigation, from lease disputes to dilapidations claims. Areas of expertise for the firm include the energy, telecoms, and retail sectors. Kenneth Carruthers leads the practice, handling a diverse client base of housebuilders, local authorities, and institutional investors. Isobell Reid’s practice centres on property disputes arising out of the energy sector. Lynsay Cargill’s experience encompasses all levels of the Scottish court system, while David Forrester is involved in mandates from both the public and private sectors alike.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- Morton Fraser MacRoberts has built a property litigation practice that combines deep sector knowledge with a practical understanding of the commercial realities facing property owners, developers, landlords, and occupiers. The team is particularly effective in disputes that require careful strategic management over an extended period, balancing robust legal analysis with a clear focus on achieving workable outcomes.
- Douglas Milne brings real gravitas to every matter he is involved in. He is a highly experienced practitioner whose judgment commands respect. His calm and measured approach inspires confidence in even the most challenging cases. David Forrester stands out for his technical expertise and unwavering commitment to client service. He has an impressive grasp of complex property law issues and is meticulous in his analysis and preparation. What particularly distinguishes him is his ability to combine legal excellence with genuine responsiveness and care for his clients' interests. He is approachable, thorough, and highly effective at translating technical legal issues into practical advice, making him a trusted adviser and an excellent lawyer to work alongside. Alastair Johnston is particularly impressive in the handling of neighbor and boundary disputes, an area that often requires a careful blend of legal expertise, strategic judgment, and interpersonal skills. He is adept at managing highly sensitive and emotionally charged matters, maintaining focus on the client's objectives while seeking practical and proportionate solutions.
- Very approachable team, always available and quick to understand the issue and advise on options and recommendations for taking things forward.
- Lynsay Cargill is developing an excellent practice in commercial real estate litigation. She is exceptionally able and personable with it. Ken Carruthers is an elder statesman in this field - well known to everyone. Dana Strain is relatively junior, but is clearly going to be a rising star in the near future. Very clever and excellent with clients and colleagues.
- Ken Carruthers, Lynsay Cargill, and Dana Strain are fabulous to work with.
- David Forrester is very capable and an associate to watch. Ken Carruthers is one of the best-known practitioners in the area in Scotland.
- MFMAC has particular strength in real estate, planning, and environmental litigation and represents a range of leading clients in the sector.
- Requests for instructions are clear; all members of the team approach every instruction consistently, so you know what to expect throughout the process.
- Diligent, efficient, and transparent.
Key clients
- Scottish Government
- The Ministry of Defence
- The Student Loans Company
- Tesco Stores Limited
- BAM Properties Limited
- SSE plc
- CALA Homes
- Persimmon Homes
- Taylor Wimpey plc
- AGS Airports
- Robertson Group
- Scottish Canals
- Bellair (Scotland) Limited
Work highlights
Advising a Non-Departmental Public Body on the ongoing defence of a Court of Session action for payment in a dilapidations claim following termination of a city centre lease.
Advising an International Hotel Chain in pursuing a Lands Tribunal claim for compensation following the compulsory purchase of one of its Scottish properties, and subsequent dilapidations claim.
Advising BAM TCP Atlantic Square Limited in defence and settlement of a Court of Session title dispute relating to an office development in Glasgow.
Lawyers
Next generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
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
Kenneth Carruthers
Other key lawyers
Lynsay Cargill; Isobell Reid; David Forrester; Alistair Johnston