Balfour+Manson LLP

24/06/2026

"Compensation" is often portrayed as a windfall. The reality is very different.

The purpose of damages in personal injury claims is to place an injured person, as far as possible, back in the position they would have been in had the injury not occurred. For those living with life-changing injuries, that can include future care, therapies, specialist equipment, lost earnings, and support for family members.

In this article for APIL Injury Awareness Week, Michaela Guthrie explores how claims for damages work in Scotland and why securing the right compensation can make a significant difference to someone's future.

👇 Read more below
https://www.balfour-manson.co.uk/2026/06/money-money-money-how-do-claims-for-damages-work-in-scotland/

23/06/2026

We are delighted for our clients, For Women Scotland, following Lady Ross's decision on Friday that the current prison placement guidance is unlawful.

A three-day hearing took place in the Court of Session in February concerning the proper application of the law and the protection of women's single-sex spaces. Today, it has been announced that Scottish Ministers will not appeal the decision.

Partner Sindi Mules acted for For Women Scotland in this important case.

Ministers have decided not to appeal a ruling which found the practice 'unlawful'

23/06/2026

As part of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) Injury Awareness Week, we're highlighting some of the ways we support people who have been affected by negligence and guide them through the claims process.

Today, Robyn Coates explores negligent maternity care in Scotland, outlining the complaints process, compensation claims, key legal time limits, and the rights of parents and children under Scots law.

If you have concerns about the care you or your baby received, understanding your options is an important first step.

With the Scottish Maternity Inquiry due to begin this autumn, understanding your rights and the options available to you has never been more important.

Read more ⬇️
https://www.balfour-manson.co.uk/2026/06/negligent-maternity-care-in-scotland-your-rights-and-options/

22/06/2026

Balfour+Manson is proud to support the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL)’s Injury Awareness Week 2026. This year’s theme, The Ripple Effect, highlights how injuries caused by negligence impact not only the injured person, but also their families, friends and wider communities. Our specialist team is committed to supporting clients beyond compensation, helping them access the care, advice and resources they need. Read more here…

https://www.balfour-manson.co.uk/2026/06/apils-injury-awareness-week/

22/06/2026

How final is a “final” order when children are involved?

Jamie Foulis explores the recent case of PSC & Ors v NS and explains why arrangements for children under 16 can still be revisited when circumstances change and welfare considerations require it, in today's The Scotsman

Variations to childcare arrangements aren’t uncommon, writes Jamie Foulis​

04/06/2026

📢 Just over 3 weeks to go till our 22nd Annual Family Law Conference 📢

Join us at Perth Racecourse on Monday, 22 June 2026 for a day of expert insight, discussion, and excellent CPD. This year’s agenda includes:

• Children in family court proceedings – the lawyer’s perspective – Rachel Shewan KC
• Children in family court proceedings – the psychologist’s perspective – Dr Kirsty Dalrymple
• Children in family court proceedings – a view from the bench – Sheriff George Jamieson
• Domestic abuse from a criminal advocate’s perspective – Gareth Reid, Advocate
• Domestic abuse: avenues to compensation – Diana Mackenzie, Balfour+Manson
• Case law round-up – Alex Critchley, Advocate
• Cohabitation claims and unjustified enrichment – Morag McEwan, Advocate

Register via the link below ⬇️

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/balfourmanson-22nd-annual-family-law-conference-tickets-1987898668430?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

01/05/2026

Our offices are closed on Monday for the May Day Bank Holiday, reopening as normal on Tuesday ☀️

27/04/2026

In England, Martha’s Rule is already helping patients and families escalate concerns quickly—leading to hundreds of potentially lifesaving interventions. Scotland is trialling a version at Hairmyres Hospital, but patients across Scotland still don’t yet have the same right to a second opinion or rapid escalation route.

In today's The Scotsman, Michaela Guthrie says it’s time Scotland caught up—without waiting for another tragedy to force change.

https://www.scotsman.com/business/scotland-needs-marthas-rule-on-patient-care-7178183

02/04/2026

Happy Easter from everyone at Balfour+Manson. Our offices are closed over the Easter break, opening as normal on Tuesday 7th April 🐰🐣

01/04/2026

We’re incredibly proud to have taken part in The Dementia Trust Planning Ahead campaign and to help raise awareness of the importance of early conversations around Power of Attorney.

Well done to everyone involved in supporting families across Edinburgh—together we can make these vital discussions more routine and reduce stress for so many.

A huge thank you to The Dementia Trust for leading such impactful work. We’re committed to continuing our support as Planning Ahead 2027 approaches.

The Dementia Trust is celebrating a successful first year of its ‘Planning Ahead’ campaign, which encourages Scottish families to have early conversations around power of attorney. The 2026 pilot of ‘POA Month’ in Edinburgh delivered a measurable impact with participating fir