Matthew McGovern @mcgovernlawyer Twitter profile | Pikagi

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Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2,029

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1,834

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Defence Lawyer and Partner at @mcgovernreid , Criminal Law Firm of the Year 2022.

Wishaw, Scotland

https://t.co/8ANB74mY1U

Joined January 2020

Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

My Firm will not be accepting instructions in any case that forms part of this pilot. No client of @mcgovernreid will be ever exploited as part of a social experiment to satisfy the demands of the Special Interest Groups. This pilot is not in the interests of justice.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

🚨STATEMENT FROM THE HAMILTON BAR ASSOCIATION🚨 The members of the Hamilton Bar Association have unanimously agreed to support the proposed boycott of rape trials without juries. We fully support our colleagues across Scotland who have made their views known over the last 2 days

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

THIS is what a legal aid lawyer looks like. Protecting the exploited against the worst excesses of state power. This is what is at stake when it comes to legal aid. Without proper investment in LA, there will be no one to speak for those without a voice. Well played @AamerAnwar .

@AamerAnwar

Aamer Anwar✊🏾🏳️‍🌈#BlackLivesMatter

3 years

This was the proud moment that after hours of negotiations with @policescotland I went into @pritipatel enforcement van to tell 2 men they were free because of the power of the people & #PeopleMakeGlasgow ❤️ #EidMubarak 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Trainee conducted his first ever trial this afternoon. Client acquitted. A well-earned £56.79 for the Firm. Although as the Trainee himself pointed out, conducting the trial probably cost the Firm money due to the time spent waiting and conducting the trial. Unsustainable.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Delighted to have won Criminal Law Firm of the Year at the Herald Law Awards 2022 #ScotLawAwards

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Last week I represented a professional who had been accused of assaulting one of their children. If they had been convicted, their career would have been over. When I first met them, I advised that, in my opinion, the Legal Aid scheme simply didn’t allow me to discharge

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

A weekend in the life of a criminal defence lawyer: Friday night- Attend police station at 7pm for an interview. I had spoken to the client by phone and the client wanted me there. Fair enough, it’s his right. He also sounded incoherent so attendance was clearly appropriate.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

🚨 THE HARSH REALITY OF THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM 🚨 Yesterday I was watching the Ryder Cup when I received a phone call from a withheld number. It turned out the call was from a prison. A client then introduced himself and advised he had a razor blade to his throat. 1/

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

“We look forward to the introduction of a bill on criminal justice reform.” Speak for yourself- it’s almost inevitable the new bill will seek to abolish trial by jury for sexual offences. Any new bill should be resisted every step of the way.

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

2 years

Law Society of Scotland congratulates Yousaf on appointment as FM

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

The Legal Aid fee for conducting a trial at the Justice of the Peace Court is £54.08. That is the daily fee, not the hourly rate. It’s simply not possible to sustain a business when the fees are that low. Good luck to our justice partners having to deal with all the self-reps.

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

3 years

Justice of the Peace Courts reopen on Monday

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

The Hamilton Bar met today to discuss the weekend courts proposal. We voted not to participate in weekend courts. The vote was unanimous.

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

4 years

Overburdened criminal solicitors deride plans for 'weekend trial courts'

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Fantastic interview from Frances McMenamin KC. “The removal of juries for sex offence cases affects the rights not only of any accused charged with such an offence but equally affects the rights of every citizen in Scotland.” via @Sunday_Post

Esteemed courtroom lawyer reveals her fears judge-only trials will undermine democracy

She has lived her life in the courtrooms of Scotland, spending an acclaimed career contemplating the mechanics and morality of crime and punishment.

www.sundaypost.com

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

@GrahamSpiers We’ve witnessed two decades of dodgy directors and unpaid tax bills from Rangers. Once they pay the face painter, they can lecture others on the importance of good corporate governance.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Whilst most criminal defence firms are struggling to remain financially viable, the Crown are able to plan recruitment up to 3 years in advance. The inequality of arms that has been created should worry anyone who believes in the rule of law.

@COPFS

COPFS

4 years

We are hiring! We have opportunities for enthusiastic candidates to join our 2022 and 2023 Traineeships. More information and application packs can be found on our website

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

9 months

The suggestion from some quarters that @AamerAnwar would try to protect @scotgov or @theSNP during the inquiry was always unfair and has now been proven to be absurd. He has- as always- acted without fear or favour on behalf of his clients. Devastating statement 👇

@Political_AlanS

Alan Smith

@Political_AlanS

9 months

“No-one has dared to ask the question what bearing the trial of Alex Salmond or Operation Branchform had on the deletion of WhatsApps” @AamerAnwar gives a statement outside the UK Covid Inquiry ahead of former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s evidence session

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Good piece in today’s @Sunday_Post about the exodus of new criminal defence lawyers. A generation will denied access to justice unless @ScotGovJustice take steps to allow firms to offer a meaningful career in criminal defence.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

By comparison, the total bill for Criminal Legal Aid in 2020-21 was £52m.

@conor_matchett

Conor Matchett

@conor_matchett

2 years

Crown Agent John Logue confirms current compensation bill for the Rangers malicious prosecutions is now £51m.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Criminal defence firms have been reduced to simply managing the decline of Legal Aid. Meanwhile @COPFS are advertising market leading salaries for trainees starting in 2024. Anyone who believes in justice should be very concerned at what’s happened in Scotland. #InequalityOfArms

@PeatWorrier

PeatWorrier

3 years

⚖️One for would-be solicitors: the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service ( @COPFS ) launch legal traineeships scheme for 2023/24. Closing date for applications: midnight 13th February.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

6 months

Following @Siobhianayr ’s car crash interviews re the Hate Crime Act, @mbmpolicy and @ForWomenScot highlighted that the Minister had repeatedly misrepresented what the legislation says. Against that backdrop, it is inexcusable that @AConstance23 has made the same misrepresentation

@andywightman

Andy Wightman

6 months

The Hate Crime Act criminalises behaviour that is threatening, abusive or insulting (s.4(1)) and behaviour that is threatening or abusive (4(2)). Nowhere does it state that such behaviour has to be "threatening and/or abusive" as stated by the Minister this afternoon.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

This is worth reading from @AConstance23 who calls for a “compassionate and informed debate” as the Bill goes through Parliament. I agree. However, whilst we are entitled to our opinions, we’re not entitled to our own facts 1/

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'Why Scotland must take bold action to put victims at the heart of justice system'

This week the First Minister and I met victims, witnesses, their families and supporters to discuss our Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform Bill…

www.heraldscotland.com

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Agreed. When there was an attempt to “suspend” jury trials at the beginning of the pandemic, it took a Herculean effort led by Ronnie Renucci KC to see it off. A similar effort from the profession will be required in the months ahead.

@RoddyQC

Roddy Dunlop KC

2 years

@mcgovernlawyer And, with all due respect to the many esteemed voices behind the proposal, it will continue to be opposed by @FacultyScot (and, I hope, by @Lawscot ): because jury trial remains essential to justice in Scotland.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

'I'm a criminal lawyer and I'm dyslexic' - BBC News

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'I'm a criminal lawyer and I'm dyslexic'

A dyslexic solicitor tells how he was called out for using his phone in court to help him read notes.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

Politicians underestimate the people at their peril and there is a more basic point that the Justice Secretary (and indeed other politicians) will need to address during this debate: if the public are too prejudiced to serve as jurors, why are they trusted to vote?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

"If you don't have a functioning justice system then you don't have a functioning democracy and the thanks we are getting, those of us on the front line two years on [from keeping the justice system open during the pandemic] is an absolute disgrace."

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Lawyer warning after Hamilton Sheriff Court sits for 10 hours

Solicitor Matthew McGovern says failing custody arrangements are causing problems across Scotland.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Last week a jury trial was adjourned at Hamilton Sheriff Court because a vulnerable accused could not obtain representation. The accused has been in custody since last March. The court made efforts to appoint a solicitor but no solicitor was prepared to accept the appointment.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Hamilton have also voted not engage with the COP26 duty scheme. What an embarrassment for @ScotGovJustice . The eyes of the world will be on us and there will be unrepresented accused appearing from custody. How will anyone be able to call that justice?

@EdinBarAssoc

Edinburgh Bar Assoc.

3 years

The @EdinBarAssoc has voted not to engage with proposed duty solicitor plans for the duration of COP26. Please see our website for our statement in respect of this and why we find ourselves in this position -

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Consultation with client in Polmont. He’s been in for over two weeks and he has still not received his blood thinning medication or a phone to keep in touch with family. This is having a real impact on his mental health. How is this acceptable? @scottishprisons #DemandLessRemand

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

“No law book can give our judges the lived experience of a jury of 15 ordinary men and women coming together, from diverse backgrounds, delivering justice irrespective of education, wealth or status”. Excellent from @AamerAnwar who doesn’t miss his mark.

@AamerAnwar

Aamer Anwar✊🏾🏳️‍🌈#BlackLivesMatter

1 year

Politicians who have never spent a day in court claim they want rape trials reflecting the needs of modern Scotland, but arrogantly ignore views of those who’ve given a lifetime to working in our courts, whilst ‘cherry picking’ views to suit an agenda

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

5 months

There is a further irony about @JohnSwinney ’s new found concern for due process: he was a member of the cabinet that approved the juryless trials bill. He then joined @SP_Justice when it was scrutinising that same bill. Where was the concern for pre-judging the outcome then?

@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

5 months

. @JohnSwinney ’s support for due process would have more credibility if his government wasn’t trying to remove citizen’s right to a trial by jury in a partisan attempt to boost conviction rates. To quote Mr Swinney at #fmqs , do unto others as you would have done unto yourself.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

8 months

Excellent thread defending the role of juries in the criminal justice system. @ScotGovJustice ’s proposals to remove juries risk politicising the judiciary as well as putting pressure- both in public and in private on judges to reach the politically acceptable verdict.

@Joanna__Hardy

Joanna Hardy-Susskind

8 months

If you struggle with the idea that 24 people sitting on 2 separate juries could reach different conclusions about narrow facts then I have some incredibly bad news for you about the alternatives to jury trial.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

What a legacy for a former Legal Aid lawyer to leave behind as she leaves office.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

The custody court at Hamilton concluded shortly before 8pm last night (I finished dealing with the penultimate custody at 1940). In fairness to GeoAmey, every accused was in the building by 2pm. Last night’s delay was the fault of @COPFS as many papers- including mine- arrived 1/

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Good luck to @ScotGovJustice @theSNP explaining to voters at the next election why victims of crime are waiting years for their case to get to trial, why the backlog hasn’t been addressed and why presumed innocent accused are being remanded almost indefinitely waiting for a trial

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Spoke to a client yesterday: “Why didn’t you ask for me (b4 interview)?” “The police told me it would take too long to wait for a lawyer and I’d have to wait in the cells all day” Charged after interview Representation at interview is just as important as representation at court.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Just received a CV from an aspiring criminal lawyer. First class degree, exceptional CV and struggling to enter the profession. Substitute lawyer for doctor or teacher and this problem would be front page news. The complacency from @ScotGovJustice is a disgrace.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

“Who is accountable for their decisions”. The judiciary’s biggest advantage is their independence. If judges are going to be held to account by special interest groups, their independence will be eradicated and justice will suffer.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

“An unapologetic insult to the intelligence and integrity of those in the general public who are picked at random to sit as jurors. That’s what blanket complaints about conviction rates in rape trials must amount to.”

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Tony Lenehan KC: Jury sacrifice is part of a new religion

Defence counsel Tony Lenehan KC writes that juryless trials are being driven by ideology rather than evidence. After reading the Victims, Witnesses and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill I was disappo...

www.scottishlegal.com

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

I’ll be on @BBCRadioScot Good Morning Scotland tomorrow around 0815 discussing the impact Geo-Amey delays are having on the justice system. These delays are undermining the rights of the accused and witnesses as well as destroying the morale of those of us who work in the system.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

It is now clear that independent criminal defence solicitors will be boycotting any judge only rape trials. This raises real issues about both the feasibility and the credibility of the pilot scheme. It also highlights the important role the independent criminal bar 1/

@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

Lawyer boycott of juryless rape trials 'to be unanimous' - BBC News

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

. @mcgovernreid are looking for a Trainee Solicitor. Apply in the link below and please RT.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

9 months

It was a Trainee Solicitor who argued this point at trial. Pleased to see the Appeal Court agreed with him and it’s a good reminder of how much is asked of criminal defence trainees- and what they offer the justice system. @ScotGovJustice should be reinstating the Trainee Fund

@PeatWorrier

PeatWorrier

9 months

Appeal Court holds that it isn't within judicial knowledge that the term "hun" refers to Protestants and so can constitute a religious aggravation to a public order offence, disagreeing with the Sheriff Appeal Court.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

This is a decision most have reached reluctantly. Criminal defence firms- uniquely within the criminal justice system- require to operate for profit. It is simply not profitable to provide representation in section 1 of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 cases.

@scotscrimbar

Scottish Solicitors Bar Association

2 years

The SSBA is disappointed to have to announce a further escalation in the ongoing dispute between the criminal bar and @scotgov . None of us want to leave clients unrepresented, but the lack of engagement from @AshtenRegan leaves us little choice...

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

This is @COPFS ’s THIRD round of recruiting deputes in the past year. The defence cannot compete with the package on offer and the exodus of NQs leaving the criminal bar continues. Anyone who cares about justice in Scotland should be extremely worried about what is happening.

@COPFS

COPFS

3 years

We are hiring! We have opportunities for exceptional qualified lawyers to join us as Procurator Fiscal Deputes across Scotland. More information and application packs: #jobs

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

I’ve watched the Justice Secretary’s evidence. Two takeaways: there is no greater betrayal of victims than the chronic underfunding of the criminal justice system we have experienced over the past decade and AC underestimates the extent of our opposition to the judge-only trials.

@heraldscotland

The Herald

@heraldscotland

1 year

The Justice Secretary made the position clear when giving evidence to MSPs examining the Scottish Government's reforms to the criminal justice system

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

Update- the custody court finished at 2220 with the final accused persons arriving in the building at 2200 after the police organised transport for them. Completely unacceptable that everyone else is having to work twice as long to compensate for GeoAmy’s failings.

@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

The service GeoAmy are providing @SCTScourtstribs is an absolute disgrace. I’m advised the custody court at Hamilton is STILL waiting for accused persons to arrive from a police station less than 10 miles away. To put this in context, the custody court started at 12pm.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

The job of a criminal defence lawyer is twofold: protect the interests of most vulnerable people in our society and protect democracy itself. The way @ScotGovJustice and @ScotsLegalAid have devalued this essential service is a travesty for Scotland. 14/ends

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Delighted to have received a commendation at last night’s @LegalAwards . A fantastic night and congratulations to all the winners #legalawards21

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

It is striking how many Lawyers of Tomorrow express an interest in criminal law.Contrary to some suggestions, students do want to be criminal lawyers but there’s too few traineeships advertised and too many want to leave once they qualify due to work/life balance and remuneration

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

4 years

Lawyers of Tomorrow – Calum Harris

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Delighted for @AamerAnwar . In public he’s a formidable campaigner against injustice and in private he’s a generous and supportive colleague.

@AamerAnwar

Aamer Anwar✊🏾🏳️‍🌈#BlackLivesMatter

3 years

I’m grateful to Tribunal @Lawscot who after a 4 year investigation & hearing found me not guilty of professional misconduct- As a lawyer I have tried always to fight for justice without fear or favour & will continue 2 do so- Thankyou to my team @madisonmitchel1 & Johnston Clark

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

New lawyers aren’t joining the Crown because the money is better (though it obviously is). It’s the work/life balance and the difference between having to provide a 24/7 service to both clients and the police compared to your work not affecting your personal life.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

#legalawards21

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Delighted to be part of this new group. The status quo is not sustainable and will result in a generation being denied access to justice.

@NGLawyers

New Generation Lawyers

4 years

Mission Statement from New Generation Lawyers. We are group aiming to represent the interests of new and aspiring criminal lawyers in Scotland. Please RT.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Accused being handed a letter (often predating the date of the undertaking) advising them that their undertaking has been cancelled or delayed once they arrive at the court is the height of disrespect. Witnesses aren’t treated this way. Why do @COPFS apply such double standards?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

This is great advice. I’ve been surprised (and humbled) how many people have been prepared to offer me advice and support simply from me contacting them on Twitter. Law is a collegiate profession and I’m always happy to help anyone wanting to pursue a career in criminal law.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

The service GeoAmy are providing @SCTScourtstribs is an absolute disgrace. I’m advised the custody court at Hamilton is STILL waiting for accused persons to arrive from a police station less than 10 miles away. To put this in context, the custody court started at 12pm.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

“Yes conditions are challenging but look at the positives- the upper deck is still dry and the band are on excellent form” Ash Regan, Captain of the Titanic.

@ScotGovJustice

ScotGov Justice

@ScotGovJustice

3 years

Community Safety Minister @AshtenRegan has written to the presidents of two key legal bodies ahead of COP26 Letters went to @Lawscot & @scotscrimbar underlining @scotgov 's extensive engagement with the sector in the run up to the climate summit ▶️

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Expecting lawyers to provide 24/7 service for clients in police custody whilst also providing representation in increasingly complicated cases is completely unrealistic.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

This case is a betrayal of justice- for both the accused and the witnesses- and yet it is a reality because of @ScotGovJustice and @ScotsLegalAid ’s approach to Legal Aid. How much longer will this be tolerated?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Last year SLAB were advertising vacancies with a salary of approximately £31k p.a. This year the starting salary is £38k p.a. If the PDSO are able to increase salaries to solve their retention crisis, why aren’t legal aid firms able to do the same? Why the double standards?

@ScotsLegalAid

SLAB

3 years

🚨 #JOB ALERT🚨 We're #recruiting 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 for permanent & fixed-term positions across our PDSO offices in Scotland, with a focus on duty #solicitor work at courts & police stations. Find out more & apply👉 #Legal

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

6 months

Sheriff Ray Small retired today after 23 years on the bench at Hamilton Sheriff Court. The test of any judicial office holder is twofold: what are they like to appear before and do they get it right? Sheriff Small passed both tests with flying colours- particularly when dealing

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

5 months

“In 2013/14, the criminal legal aid budget was £91.88 million, while COPFS funding was £109.9 million. In 2022/23, criminal legal aid budget was £73 million, while COPFS funding was £180.9 million” Threats to civil liberties only ever cost a few pounds at a time

@1919_mag

1919 Magazine

5 months

Courtroom chaos: Scotland’s court system, plagued by a never-ending backlog, cancelled cases, and a shortage of defence lawyers, is widely labelled as ‘broken’ 🔎 Big Read by @DaniGaravelli1 👇

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

This is something law students should be signing up for. Being a Panel Member is a really good introduction into analysing evidence as well as decision making. It is also something that would make your application stand out if you are applying for traineeships.

@CHScotland

Children's Hearings Scotland

3 years

It's that time again! We will be launching our recruitment campaign for new volunteer Panel Members in 3 days! 🥳Sign up below to get notified when applications are open and please use #VolunteerWithCHS to spread the word!

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Very pleased with the reaction that this has received. Anyone who believes in a functioning democracy must also believe in a vibrant, independent criminal bar. We are in danger of losing this vital component of our democracy. Urgent action is now required.

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

4 years

'No ifs, no buts, no weekend courts' – Hamilton bar votes against SCTS proposal

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

If there’s a parapet, you’ll always find @AamerAnwar ’s head above it. This is a depressing reminder of the price he pays as he fights for justice for the family of Sheku Bayoh.

@AamerAnwar

Aamer Anwar✊🏾🏳️‍🌈#BlackLivesMatter

2 years

“it has been reported to me that the family of #ShekuBayoh & their solicitor have been subjected to racist abuse. I am sure that everyone associated with this Inquiry will agree with me that such behaviour is despicable & entirely unacceptable” Lord Bracadale Chair Inquiry

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

We are rapidly moving towards a two tier justice system where the wealthy and middle class will be able to ensure there is a semblance of fairness to the proceedings but the poor will not. The judiciary are well funded, the prosecution are well funded so why not the defence?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

🚨 BREAKING: THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM. 🚨 The custody court at Hamilton finished at 22:20 tonight. There were only 39 custodies. Who will guard the guards themselves?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Thanks again to @IanMoir5 , @Palestalemale1 , @MJS_Defence and @lawisnowblonde for speaking at the @oSYLAo criminal traineeship event tonight. A brilliant opportunity for our members to gain an insight into starting out in criminal law.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

Oddly, ⁦ @COPFS ⁩ haven’t tweeted about their trainee recruitment advert. If anyone wants to became the highest paid trainee in the country (plus other benefits), apply below. What’s happened to the promised Legal Aid trainee fund @ScotGovJustice ⁩?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

This is a must watch as @lawisnowblonde outlines the daily reality of being a criminal defence lawyer: underpaid, overworked and disrespected at every opportunity. If criminal defence can’t offer someone of Lyndsey’s ability a future, then frankly it really is all over.

@lawisnowblonde

Lyndsey Barber

@lawisnowblonde

2 years

My video on leaving criminal. Posted before i thought about it too much, via @YouTube

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

I was the only solicitor in the room today under the age of 30. There isn’t a single criminal trainee at Hamilton just now. Women were outnumbered more than 5:1. The vast majority were over the age of 50. The demographics of the profession are a major problem.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

If there any further improvements that be made to the criminal justice system, let’s hear them. But beginning with the premise that conviction rape is too low and needs to increase will lead to an unjust system that the public will have no faith in.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

6 months

Extraordinary decision for @Lawscot to withdraw from these discussion. This is the strongest action LANT could have taken and it’s an embarrassing failure from @ScotGovJustice . Well done @IanMoir5

@Lawscot

Law Society Scotland

6 months

The Law Society is to withdraw from discussions on creating a review mechanism for legal aid fees, saying it has ‘lost confidence’ in the @scotgov project due to a lack of progress. Read our statement ➡️

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Looking forward to tonight’s Scottish Legal Awards. @mcgovernreid are nominated for Criminal Defence Team of the Year and I’m nominated for Rising Star of the Year. Good luck to all finalists! @LegalAwards @BobbySolicitor

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

Lawyer boycott of juryless rape trials 'to be unanimous' - BBC News

Tweet card media

Lawyer boycott of juryless rape trials 'to be unanimous'

Bar associations across Scotland expected to oppose pilot of juryless rape trials, says leading lawyer.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

New procedure comes into effect today. The most revealing part of the statement is contained in the first sentence. Everyone was invited to the meeting- except defence lawyers. If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu- and we weren’t at the table.

@SCTScourtstribs

Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS)

@SCTScourtstribs

1 year

An update on mitigating the impact of Prisoner Escort Services has been published. (1/3)

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

9 months

“Yes conditions are challenging but we have enough lifeboats for passengers in first class and the band are still taking requests”- Angela Constance, Captain of the Titanic.

@Sunday_Mail

Sunday Mail

9 months

Scotland’s justice system in crisis after 70 defence advocates leave for prosecution roles

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

Always nice to be approached about a new job. It is hypocrisy upon stilts for the public sector to employ external recruitment consultants at a time when private firms are now struggling to retain trainees never mind fully qualified solicitors.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

No other criminal firm in Scotland carries out the range of work that Aamer and the @Anwar_and_Co team carry out. Genuinely an unique opportunity to work on cases that change Scotland. Apply in the link below 👇 #traineeship

@AamerAnwar

Aamer Anwar✊🏾🏳️‍🌈#BlackLivesMatter

2 years

📢An opportunity to train as a solicitor at the cutting edge of civil liberties law, our ethos is a commitment to the pursuit of justice ⚖️ This is an exciting moment to be trainee @Anwar_and_Co

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

There are no greater victims in the criminal justice system than the untried accused who are remanded awaiting trial for longer than they would spend serving a sentence if they plead guilty. Where is their commissioner?

@Political_AlanS

Alan Smith

@Political_AlanS

4 years

Justice is the focus today for @theSNP with a pledge to appoint a victims commissioner if re-elected @HumzaYousaf says they also want to reform how children and young people are treated in the justice system with the introduction of the “Bairn’s Hoose”

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Compare and contrast what @COPFS can (rightly) offer potential candidates in terms of salary, pension, annual leave entitlement and wellbeing benefits compared to what Legal Aid firms are in a position to offer #InequalityOfArms

@lawscotjobs

Law Scot Jobs

3 years

Procurator Fiscal Depute, Legal, Grampians Highlands and Islands

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

7 months

The Scottish justice system continues its remarkable transformation from being the envy of the world to an international embarrassment. This latest development should shame @ScotGovJustice and @ScotsLegalAid .

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

7 months

UN’s help sought in forcing Scottish government to act on legal aid

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Will the last solicitor to leave the criminal bar please switch off the lights?

@annmritchie

Ann Ritchie

3 years

@scotscrimbar Four defence lawyers I know of in the west leaving to join the PFs in the last week.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

8 months

Interesting insight in @timesscotland . The former minister is right: @ScotGovJustice will not win the fight. There is not a credible defence lawyer in the country who will accept instructions in the pilot. We will not be complicit in their attack on our independent legal system.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

This has now sold out again. 300 attendees. It shows how many students and graduates are interested in a career in criminal law and how few opportunities there are available for them.

@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

We’ve had so much interest for this event that we’ve DOUBLED our capacity. Should be a great event, sign up details are below 👇

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

To expect the profession to be able to provide this additional weekend service is nothing short of delusional and suggests an ignorance about how bad the situation is for criminal defence firms

@ScottishLegal

Scottish Legal News

4 years

Law Society raises concerns with Lord President as spectre of weekend courts looms – again

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

2 years

“Legal aid is to your legal problems what the NHS is when you are sick. Fight for it.” RIP @Mark_George_KC

@gcnchambers

Garden Court North

2 years

It is with the greatest of sadness that we announce the death of our Head of Chambers, Mark George KC. Mark was a principled advocate whose presence, friendship, strength & wisdom will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

Good luck to all those who apply. How many criminal defence firms could offer this type of package on legal aid rates?

@COPFS

COPFS

4 years

We're hiring. We are recruiting for a number of Procurator Fiscal Depute roles across Scotland. More info and application packs can be found here…

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

5 months

Whilst @ScotGovJustice and @ScotsLegalAid pretend there are no issues with Criminal Legal Aid, @DaniGaravelli1 captures what this looks like in practice. Relying on an ever decreasing group of solicitors committed to criminal defence is completely unsustainable.

@DaniGaravelli1

Dani Garavelli

@DaniGaravelli1

5 months

Today around 800 criminal defence lawyers begin industrial action over a "broken" system. For @1919_mag , I shadowed one to find out what they are up against, & how the growing disparity between the resourcing of the COPFS & Legal Aid is affecting justice.

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Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

By declining to accept instructions, solicitors will be doing so at our own financial disadvantage. However we make no complaint about putting principle before profit. You cannot put a price on justice and lawyers should never be complicit to potential miscarriages of justice.

@JetDog1000

Francesca du Little 🇬🇧🇮🇱

1 year

@mcgovernlawyer What? Wouldn't you be making enough money on top of the ridiculous amount you already snaffle?

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

The profession has been treated with contempt and the line in the sand must now be drawn. No ifs, no buts, no weekend courts.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

I joined @howardleague_sc recently as a result of the work that they had done on the scandal- and it really is a scandal- of how untried prisoners have been treated during the pandemic. This is really good work and I support the campaign to #DemandLessRemand

@howardleague_sc

HowardLeagueScotland

@howardleague_sc

3 years

Today we've published our latest report, 'The Scandal of Remand in Scotland' and are supporting five days of social media action to highlight how serious an issue this is. ➡️ #DemandLessRemand

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

5 months

The good news for @ScotGovJustice is that a world leader now supports their juryless trials policy. The bad news for @ScotGovJustice is that it’s Donald Trump.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Consulted with a new client in prison today. He had represented himself at the Petition hearing and had been remanded. He had papers served on him at the police station and had appeared at court virtually. He moved for bail which was refused and he went to prison.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

11 months

Over the last few years, I’ve been invited to speak at various @_StrathLawSoc_ events. It’s always a privilege and they are a fantastic organisation. One theme has emerged from these events: there is an ever-diminishing interest in students becoming criminal defence lawyers 1/

@scotscrimbar

Scottish Solicitors Bar Association

11 months

Some headlines write themselves- @scotgov squanders £3.5m to keep prosecutors toasty whilst dozens of potential defence trainees are kept out in the cold 1/ Crown Office heat pump ‘experiment’ to cost taxpayers £3.5m @timesscotland

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

4 years

📣 Criminal Traineeship opportunity with @MJS_Defence . Details are in the link below. 📣

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

This is a fantastic letter but the COP26 courts should be boycotted regardless of whatever funding is offered. Let the world see the impact that decades of underfunding have had on Legal Aid in Scotland.

@GlasgowBarAssoc

Glasgow Bar Association

@GlasgowBarAssoc

3 years

GBA Members decline to attend holiday custody courts with immediate effect – Glasgow Bar Association

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Delighted to have been re-elected to serve on the @oSYLAo committee yesterday. Looking forward to representing our branch of the profession on issues like COVID-19, mental health and the exodus of newly qualified lawyers leaving the criminal bar.

@jlsed

Peter Nicholson

3 years

SYLA annual meeting elects new committee

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

0607- phone call from police to advise another client has been charged with a couple of offences. He’s getting released but wanted me notified. This is completely unsustainable and a perfect example of why so many lawyers have left criminal defence in recent months.

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

1 year

The test of any civilised society is how we treat those in the care of the state. This is a test @ScotGovJustice have failed miserably. It is ridiculous that anyone in prison is awaiting for a seemingly indefinite period for basic medical treatment. The callous indifference of 8/

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@mcgovernlawyer

Matthew McGovern

@mcgovernlawyer

3 years

Once again during the pandemic when the rights of the accused have come into conflict with the convenience of the public sector, it is the latter that has triumphed. What a terrible advert for Scottish justice.

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