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Trusted Criminal Defence Solicitors in Inverness
Craig Wood Solicitors is a specialist criminal law firm based in Inverness, providing expert legal representation across the Highlands, Islands, and throughout Scotland. Our team of highly experienced solicitors brings over 80 years of combined expertise in handling cases ranging from minor Justice of the Peace Court matters to complex High Court trials involving fraud and murder. We offer 24/7 emergency legal support for clients in police custody, ensuring immediate access to professional advocacy when it is needed most. Our services span all criminal court levels, including regular appearances in Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen High Courts. We prioritise client welfare by providing free initial consultations and advising on legal aid eligibility, ensuring transparent and accessible legal defence solutions.With a meticulous approach to criminal defence work, we combine local knowledge with national reach to protect our clients' rights and interests. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our track record of successful case outcomes and our team's deep understanding of Scots Criminal Law. We maintain a professional, empathetic, and thorough approach to every case, recognising the significant stress associated with criminal accusations. Our firm's reputation for reliability and legal acumen has been built through decades of dedicated service to individuals facing criminal charges. By maintaining offices in central Inverness and offering nationwide court representation, we ensure our clients receive timely and effective legal support wherever required.
Services
Road Traffic Offences
Public Disorder Offences
Drugs Offences
Crimes of Violence
Firearms Offences
Sexual Assault
Cybercrime
Proceeds of Crime
Highlights and features
- We have over 80 years of combined experience in criminal defence law
- Our team provides 24/7 emergency legal support for police custody cases
- We offer free initial consultations and legal aid eligibility advice
- We represent clients in all criminal courts across Scotland
- Our solicitors have proven expertise in complex High Court trials
Services
Road Traffic Offences
We provide expert legal defence for all road traffic offences, from minor infractions to serious charges like dangerous driving. Our solicitors understand the complexities of traffic law and work to minimise penalties, protect driving licences, and ensure fair treatment in court proceedings across Scotland.
Cybercrime
Our specialist team defends clients against cybercrime allegations including hacking, online fraud, and data breaches. With technical expertise and legal knowledge, we challenge evidence, protect digital rights, and navigate complex legislation to achieve the best possible outcomes for technology-related criminal cases.
Firearms Offences
We handle all firearm-related offences, from licensing disputes to possession charges. Our solicitors combine detailed knowledge of firearms legislation with courtroom experience to challenge evidence, negotiate reduced charges, and protect clients' rights in both rural and urban Scottish jurisdictions.
Proceeds of Crime
Our team specialises in defending confiscation orders and financial penalties under proceeds of crime legislation. We challenge asset seizures, scrutinise valuation methods, and protect legitimate assets while ensuring compliance with complex financial crime regulations during and after criminal proceedings.
Sexual Assault
We provide sensitive yet robust defence for sexual assault allegations, balancing legal strategy with client support. Our solicitors challenge evidence credibility, protect anonymity where possible, and navigate the emotional complexities of these cases while maintaining strict professional standards throughout Scotland's criminal justice system.
People
John Maccoll
Solicitor
Local Inverness solicitor with 30+ years' experience in criminal prosecutions. Graduated from Aberdeen University in 1992, specialising in Justice of the Peace to High Court cases. Regularly appears in Sheriff & Jury trials across Scotland.
Shahid Latif
Solicitor Advocate
Experienced in criminal trials and appeals, including high-profile cybercrime and terrorism cases. Part of Lockerbie bombing conviction team. Regular High Court representative with specialist Sheriff & Jury trial expertise across Scotland.
Rory Gowans
Solicitor
Inverness-based criminal defence specialist since 2008. Holds Law and Management degree from Robert Gordon University. Experienced in all court levels, combining local knowledge with Notary Public qualifications for comprehensive client support.
Clare Russell
Solicitor Advocate
Admitted to High Court in 2022 after seven years' criminal defence experience. Edinburgh University graduate specialising in Sheriff and Jury trials. Combines courtroom advocacy with Notary Public services for enhanced client representation across Scotland.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We operate nationwide across Scotland, regularly appearing in Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen High Courts, with police station attendance available throughout the country.
Do you offer emergency legal support?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency legal representation for clients in police custody, with experienced solicitors available at all hours to protect your rights during critical questioning periods.
How are legal fees structured?
We offer transparent fee arrangements including fixed fees or hourly rates agreed in advance. Private clients pay directly, while legal aid may cover costs for eligible individuals facing criminal charges.
What experience do you have?
Our team has over 80 years' combined criminal law experience, handling thousands of cases from minor offences to complex High Court trials, including terrorism and cybercrime prosecutions.
Can I get legal aid?
We provide free initial consultations to assess legal aid eligibility based on charge severity, custody status, and plea intentions. Legal aid covers many criminal defence cases across Scottish courts.
