The 5 firms you’d want on your side for the best criminal defence in Glasgow
Things can spiral out of control when you’re facing a criminal charge. The real problem is that most people have no idea which lawyer will actually fight for them.
On the good side, there’s no shortage of law firms in Glasgow. But there’s also no shortage of firms that are more talk than walk.
To separate the best from the best, we spoke with former clients and reviewed real case outcomes. We even contacted law firms.
We created a shortlist of names until we finally agreed on the ones who show up at the most crucial times. Here are firms to trust for high-stakes situations.
How much do criminal defence lawyer fees cost in Glasgow?
The cost of criminal defense lawyer fees ranges from £200 to £500 per hour. Those who charge a fixed fee usually start at £1,000 for straightforward cases. The final fee depends on the case, the lawyer’s qualification, and the firm.
1. John Kilcoyne & Co. Solicitors (Criminal Lawyers Glasgow)
Location: 201 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4HZ
Contact: +44 141 423 1400
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
John Kilcoyne & Co. Solicitors provides comprehensive criminal defense services across complex matters. They deal with cases such as assault, sexual offences, and domestic violence.
We commend the quality of their legal work. Through documented results, we saw many favourable results. Some examples include charges being dropped and custodial sentences being avoided.
Courtroom advocacy is also strong. According to case studies, there are specific references to effective cross-examination of police witnesses.
In line with this, their legal team has a proactive and strategic approach. They hold multiple preparatory meetings with clients to cover every ground.
We also like that they attempt to resolve cases before trial whenever possible.
Availability and responsiveness are also major things. Their 24/7 support is a plus, with plus responses in crisis situations and accessibility during police station interviews.
But of course, not all case results were satisfactory. The firm may not be able to communicate the right expectations, which affects the client’s perception.
Prompt and fantastic service
“I cannot recommend John Kilcoyne enough. He succeeded when others had said we wouldn’t. Kept us up to speed throughout and answered all of our questions promptly. He was absolutely fantastic.”
Jacquelin Pettigrew | Google Review
Competent and experienced lawyer
“Frankly, he seems like a great lawyer with great competence and experience. He has a sophisticated style and a group of friendly assistants. I have a court session on September 17, 2025 at 2 pm. He promised me that he will get rid of this problem 100%. I will come back in a new comment and tell you about my fate.”
Dia Khalil | Google Review
2. Beltrami & Company Solicitors
Location: 83 Carlton Pl, Glasgow G5 9TD
Contact: +44 141 429 2262
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Beltrami offers full criminal defence services across Sheriff Court and High Court cases. They handle situations such as assault, fraud, domestic abuse, and murder.
One of the things we value about them is their experience. The firm’s lawyers have acted in more than 150,000 cases for over 60 years across every court in Scotland.
Interviewing clients, we heard repeated praises for their courtroom advocacy. Clients cite decisive cross-examination, strong submissions, and cases being dismissed mid-trial.
The quality of legal work can also be seen in their track record. There were multiple instances of high-stakes outcomes, including attempted murder charges reduced to minor offences.
Part of their approach also involves strong communication. According to clients, they listen carefully during meetings and tailor defence strategies based on personal circumstances.
Unfortunately, there were a few instances where the clients felt that they were disregarded in the middle of a case. However, these were only with specific solicitors rather than the firm as a whole.
Treated with utmost respect
“Somehow, gratefully, I ended up leaving a message with Beltrami after calling a long list of lawyers sent by the Legal Aid. I had no idea what I needed, or what to ask for. I was called back shortly after, even though it was clearly closing time. I spoke to Alan Gravelle who listened to everything I said, treated me with the utmost of respect, professionalism and compassion – despite knowing that I did not need a criminal defence lawyer. If this is the level of service given to someone who would not be a client – it only highlights the utmost professional care provided with their service. Thank you for your advice, and been human.”
Linda | Google Review
Very fair outcome with cases
“Thank you Beltrami solicitors. They represented me at fairly short notice. I got a very fair outcome with my case. I would use them again, and also would recommend them. Thanks in particular to Chris, acting for beltrami, on my behalf.”
William | Google Review
3. Fleming & Reid Solicitors
Location: 180 Hope St, Glasgow G2 2UE
Contact: +44 141 331 1144
Opening Hours: Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Tuesday: 8:45 AM – 3:30 PM, Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Fleming & Reid provides full criminal defence representation across all Scottish courts. Their strengths cover serious and high-risk criminal matters, including attempted murder, serious assaults, and abuse.
We praise their exceptional outcomes in serious criminal cases. For example, they helped avoid custodial sentences where prison was a realistic risk.
In addition, multiple clients reported dropped charges, dismissed cases, and acquittals.
Assessing their approach, we can say they have a meticulous and detail-driven approach to criminal defence. Clients observed careful preparation, strategic case handling, and thorough legal analysis.
Communication is also consistently strong. Solicitors provide clear, understandable advice to clients who have no prior experience with these situations.
We also love how fair their pricing and funding approach is. Every piece of advice is tailored to achieving the best outcome.
For new clients, it’s important to note that they handle a high volume of serious cases. That said, the availability of specific solicitors can vary from time to time.
Second to none attention to detail
“Brian Cooney dealt with a very serious case for me. I was facing the jail and he managed to avoid it for me. Thanks also to Debbie and the staff in the office for all their help. I have no hesitation in recommending Fleming and Reid to anyone needing help. Their attention to detail and advice is second to none.”
Gerard Grant | Google Review
High level of care
“I had a great experience with this firm. I had the opportunity to watch Michael Gallen and Brian Cooney prepare and defend a case in the High Court. Their customer service is exceptional. I was very impressed by their attention to detail and the level of care towards a case. 5 stars!”
Victoria Scott | Google Review
4. LB & Co Incorporating Hughes Dowdall Foster
Location: 6, 42-46 New City Rd, Glasgow G4 9JT
Contact: +44 141 332 0047
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
LB & Co offers dedicated criminal defence representation in court proceedings. Clients report successful outcomes in high-stakes, serious, and stressful cases.
One of their biggest strengths is the many positive outcomes in the cases they handle. Through careful preparation, strategic thinking, and thorough case handling, the quality of work is top-notch.
The defence approach is also client-centred. According to clients, options were explained clearly. This enabled them to fully understand the situation and create realistic expectations.
On top of that, clients say they felt respected and understood. Beyond the legal work, we find this a valuable advantage, as it ensures clients are confident and reassured in every step.
Fees are also favourable, as the structure is flexible. Hourly rates are also within the city’s average.
Just take note that the firm operates across multiple practice areas, meaning criminal defence is not the sole specialisation. This may be a downside to those who prefer firms that focus exclusively on criminal law.
Very professional and efficient
“I highly recommend Ms. Heather Du.Thanks Heather and her team for helping me to renew my visa. She’s very professional and efficiency which I can’t believe that I can get the visa within 7 weeks. Thanks so much for you and LB& Co Solicitors.”
Jiang Jess | Google Review
Given the attention cases deserve
“I want to thank Dr. Liu and Michael Forester for the wonderful job they did on my behalf regarding my court cases. They took on my cases and gave it the utmost attention it deserved. I will highly recommend their services. Once you hire them be rest assured you are in safe hands. Thank you both!.”
Asuquo Obot | Google Review
5. Richard Freeman & Co. Solicitors (Road Traffic Experts)
Location: 40 New City Rd, Glasgow G4 9JT
Contact: +44 800 567 7810
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Richard Freeman offers specialist criminal defence representation with a strong focus on road traffic and driving-related offences.
Looking through documented case studies, we saw their proven ability to secure acquittals. There were also numerous instances of dropped charges and reduced allegations.
The quality of their advocacy is also strong. We can see this from their detailed courtroom argument and successful challenges to police evidence.
Additionally, their experience is highlighted through decades of criminal defence work. This includes over 25 years of specialist practice that shows in their legal approach.
Speaking of which, they adopt a highly strategic representation. They advise clients when to plead not guilty, when to challenge the evidence, and when to negotiate with the prosecution.
Clients also consistently report clear and thorough communication. Risks, legal options, and likely outcomes are well explained during meetings.
The downside is that the fees can be high for some clients. However, this all depends on the complexity of the case and the time required to process the case.
Exceptional expertise
“Exceptional Legal Expertise and Representation. Richard Freeman provided outstanding legal representation in my recent DUI case. His depth of knowledge and command of the law were truly exceptional — it was clear he understood every detail far better than the prosecution. From start to finish, Richard demonstrated professionalism, confidence, and genuine expertise. Thanks to his skill and dedication, my case was successfully resolved. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking first-class legal defence.”
Mark Innes | Google Review
Amazing outcome
“Thank you ! Was really amazed by my outcome , was going to be charged with a drunk driving offence, I was not hopeful, however, Richard Freeman was excellent 👌, very knowledgeable and had done his research, he really is the best , thank you again. …”
Nicola Almass | Google Review