Being represented by PDSO

Our team of solicitors, solicitor-advocates and support staff are ready to help and fight for the best result for you.

If you're in trouble, we will help.

Our solicitors will listen to you, give you clear advice and explain what we will do in your case.

We are a team of specialist criminal court lawyers and can represent you in any court in Scotland.

We will speak up for you and defend your rights in court. We will fight for you.

We have experience of dealing with a huge range of criminal cases at all levels, including:

  • Murder
  • Rape and sexual offences
  • Concern in the supply of drugs and all other drugs charges
  • Firearms
  • Internet crime
  • Assault
  • Breach of the Peace
  • Theft, robbery and housebreaking and fraud
  • Fraudulent benefits claims
  • Proceeds of Crime
  • All aspects of road traffic law

As well as representing you in court we will prepare your defence and keep you updated on the progress of your case.

We will investigate the case against you and take statements from defence witnesses and arrange for them to come to court.

We can also arrange to get expert medical or scientific opinions on evidence to support your defence.

At your first meeting with your solicitor

Your first meeting with one of our solicitors will always be free of charge and completely confidential.

No matter what your situation is your solicitor will:

  • Listen to you and give you clear and straightforward advice and help
  • Always explain what we will do in your case and answer your questions.

It is important to bring any documents or paperwork that you have in relation to the case with you.

After discussing your case we will quickly identify any work that needs done to protect your interests. We will start working straight away to defend you.

At this meeting we will advise you on legal aid and complete a legal aid application with you.

Please bring proof of your income or confirmation of any state benefits with you.

You will need to send evidence of this to us as soon as possible if you do not bring it to your first meeting.

Legal aid for your case

We are a not-for-profit organisation that is funded through the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB).

Our work is covered by advice and assistance and legal aid.

We will never charge you a fee for our work.

The only cost you may have is if you have to make a contribution towards your advice and assistance because of your finances.

You can check if you are likely to be eligible for free advice and assistance in a criminal case by using SLAB’s online estimator.

It is important to remember that even people in full time employment, or who are self-employed, can be entitled to legal aid.

Call us now to find out if you are eligible for legal aid.

Are you a non-English speaker?

We can arrange interpreting services if necessary.

Clients with a disability

We are committed to equalities.

We have published accessibility information about each of our offices to assist you.

Please let us know in advance if you have any special requirements that may mean that you would find visiting our offices challenging. We can then arrange to meet you at a more suitable location.

Can you help with a civil case?

We can only deal with criminal cases.

Please use SLAB’s Find a solicitor tool to locate a civil solicitor to help you with your case.