Justice experts meet in Edinburgh to consider legal implications of Brexit

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson - Image credit: Scottish Government Flickr

Experts from across the Scottish justice system will meet in Edinburgh to discuss the legal implications of Brexit for Scotland.

The EU justice summit, which takes place at the Scottish Government justice headquarters, St Andrew’s House, in Edinburgh, this afternoon, will consider the implications of the EU referendum result on aspects of the justice system.

Attendees from the police and the legal profession – alongside the Justice Secretary, Michael Matheson, and the Lord Advocate – will take part in round table discussions on law enforcement, criminal justice, civil and family law and commercial issues and the risks relating to leaving the EU.

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Representatives from organisations including Police Scotland, the Scottish Police Authority, Scottish Prison Service, Faculty of Advocates, Law Society of Scotland, Scottish Institute for Policing Research, Scottish Courts & Tribunals Service, Family Law Association and the Scottish Universities Legal Network on Europe are expected to attend the event, which is being hosted by the Justice Secretary.

Matheson said the interests of Scotland’s unique justice system must be protected as part of the UK’s negotiations with the EU.

“The UK Brexit vote raises many uncertainties for Scotland’s unique justice system,” he said.

“That is why I am bringing together leaders and experts to help us understand these issues – and any steps we can take now to mitigate the risks.

“The cessation of EU membership and single market access would have significant and wide-ranging ramifications from a justice and legal perspective.

“The issues range from tackling cross-border crime through to an individual with an EU ex-partner securing child maintenance payment, from Europol coordination with other countries to protecting Scots consumers’ rights when buying from abroad online.

“The summit discussions will help inform us of risks like these – and others – as the Scottish Government continues to press for full involvement in all negotiations between the UK Government and the EU.

“Despite the uncertainties caused by the threat of Brexit, we will continue our efforts to safeguard Scotland’s communities and the integrity of our justice system, while protecting the personal and commercial interests of our families, consumers and businesses.”