Moving to Scotland: Key Areas of the Law You Need to Know

Moving to Scotland: Key Areas of the Law You Need to Know

February 25, 2021

Following the pandemic, many individuals who currently live in the city are considering a move to the country.

After all, now that the world is moving towards remote work and schooling, many residents of big cities are seeking a more naturally majestic environment.

One beautiful part of the UK that many city dwellers might be considering is Scotland. While the country does have a lot of cities, it’s also renowned for its glorious remote regions and stunning architecture.

If you’re looking to move to Scotland in 2021, then there’s a lot of factors that you need to consider. These include not only the obvious, such as where you’re going to live and the services providers you use, but also the laws in Scotland.

While it is still part of the United Kingdom, Scotland is actually a separate country, with its own parliament and laws. 

As such, when you move there, you need to learn about Scottish laws. Keep reading, and we’ll describe some of the areas of the law in Scotland that you need to learn about if you’re thinking of relocating to this prestigious and naturally glorious country.

Property Law

Whether you’re buying a property or renting one, you need to know your rights and what you need to do to make the transaction run smoothly. Scottish property law is similar to English property law, but there are some differences, which you need to research. Work with a trusted estate agency and, if you’re buying a property, a surveyor who can assist you with the transaction and advise you on the relevant parts of Scottish property law that you need to cover. They can give you the specific insight that you need, so you don’t waste a lot of time and effort researching laws that don’t concern your transaction. 

Legal Aid

In Scotland, anyone who is facing criminal allegations but is unable to pay for a lawyer themselves can apply for legal aid. If you want to get legal aid, then you need to meet a set of requirements, so you should learn more about Scottish Legal Aid. Legal offices like Graham Walker Solicitors can help you to understand what you are entitled to and assist you in dealing with your legal case. 

When facing criminal charges, having the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of one’s case. In regions like Toowoomba, individuals in need of legal assistance can turn to professionals specializing in criminal law, such as Criminal Lawyer Toowoomba. These experts possess the expertise and experience necessary to navigate the complexities of criminal proceedings, advocating fiercely for their clients’ rights and interests. From providing sound legal advice to representing clients in court, a skilled criminal lawyer plays a pivotal role in ensuring fair treatment and the protection of one’s legal rights throughout every stage of the legal process.

The Right To Roam

Throughout Scotland, everyone has the right to roam over private or public land and waterways. They are subject to some rules, including the correct behaviour. As such, you should learn about this rule if you are going to rent or buy a lot of land in the country. You should also know about this law if you are going to camp in Scotland, so that you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday. 

Scottish Independence

While Scotland is not an independent country currently, and is still part of the UK, the issue is hotly debated and often bought up in discussion in the Scottish parliament. As such, you should learn about what your rights would be in case the country does gain independence in the future. It would also help if you learn about your voting rights as an English national living in Scotland, so that you can understand what voice you have in this debate and make sure that you don’t waste your vote if you have one. 

When moving to a new country, even one that’s part of the United Kingdom, you need to make sure that you learn about any relevant areas of the law. Use this article as a starting point to find out more about Scottish law and how it applies to your new life in this beautiful country.

Sophia Anderson is a blogger and a freelance writer. She is passionate about covering topics on money, business, careers, self-improvement, motivation and others. She believes in the driving force of positive attitude and constant development.