Spear’s Review

Neil Hay, a partner and head of individual crime at Brodies, is the solicitor of choice for a great variety of law firms across the UK and Europe, which seek him out for his expertise in Scottish criminal law.

‘A lot of our work is cross-border or international,’ he tells Spear’s. ‘Scotland’s big geographically but small in terms of population. So if I’ve got a big case or big client, there’s a pretty good chance that it’s going to land in some other jurisdiction like England, Europe or the US.’

Operating from the firm’s Edinburgh office, Hay covers the breadth of white-collar crime and investigations, including fraud, money laundering, embezzlement and accusations of criminal behaviour. Over the last two decades, he has represented well-known business owners, entrepreneurs, landowners, investors, politicians and celebrities.

When cases involve Scots law, Hay explains, it is essential to consult an expert: ‘The powers of the police, SFO jurisdiction and rules of evidence are different in Scotland.’

Adviser Profile

Leading criminal defence specialist Neil Hay deals with all Scottish criminal law and white-collar crime. Individual clients include doctors, lawyers and other professionals, HNW and UHNW individuals, politicians, company directors and celebrities. Corporate clients include FTSE companies, pressure groups and charities.

Neil is regularly instructed by premier UK, London and international law firms for his skill and discretion in representing their clients in all Scottish courts. He is sought out by business owners, entrepreneurs, investors and landowners.

Highly regarded as the lawyer’s lawyer, Neil’s reputation is for excellent advice, skilful negotiation and courtroom advocacy in highly sensitive and complex cases.