The 5 best 5 DUI lawyers in Glasgow get fair outcomes
Finding the right lawyer is key to navigating a DUI. You can’t simply hire an assault lawyer; you have to find someone with the right speciality.
Most people start searching for a lawyer within hours because the stakes move quickly, especially around licence suspension and first court appearances. Penalties can include driving bans, fines, insurance hikes, and a permanent mark on your record if mishandled.
The right DUI lawyer in Glasgow can challenge breath tests, reduce charges, or limit long-term damage, whether for first offences or aggravated charges involving accidents.
This review features those with real defence experience, who are available for urgent cases, and who have clarity on fees.
How much does a DUI lawyer in Glasgow charge?
In Glasgow, most DUI (drink-driving) lawyers work on a fixed-fee basis, which gives cost certainty from the outset. For a first-time offence, fees usually range from £1,000 to £2,500 for a straightforward case handled through the court.
More complex matters, such as high breath readings, accidents, or prior convictions, can cost from £3,000 to £6,000, depending on how contested the case is and whether expert evidence is needed. Hourly rates are less common but typically sit between £150 and £300 per hour if used.
If you meet income and eligibility criteria, Scottish Legal Aid may cover some or all legal costs.
1. John Kilcoyne & Co
Address: 201 Bath Street
Contact: +441414231400
Hours: Open 24 hours
When I needed a DUI solicitor who actually understood Special Reasons, not just the offence itself, I approached John Kilcoyne & Co. My case involved a genuine medical emergency, and they immediately focused on how that context could lawfully prevent disqualification.
They’re clearly specialists in drink-driving defence, especially around technical arguments and Scottish case law. Instead of pushing false reassurance, they explained what evidence would matter and how the court usually views Special Reasons submissions.
I greatly appreciated their strategy. They were firm where it mattered, and careful when it counted. They challenged the circumstances without theatrics, keeping the aim squarely on avoiding endorsement and a ban rather than dragging things out.
Their communication was steady and direct, which matters when court dates and license issues move fast. Their fees were also clear from the start, and nothing felt padded or vague once the case plan was set.
That said, they’re not the cheapest option if you’re looking for a quick, minimal-input representation. Their focus on proper preparation means you may need to invest more time gathering records and documentation to support your defence.
Customer Reviews
His support made a huge difference
I had an excellent experience with this solicitor. He was extremely professional, talented, and genuinely dedicated to helping with my friend’s case. He explained everything clearly, guided us through every step, and handled the situation with confidence and expertise. His support made a huge difference, and I felt that he truly cared about achieving the best possible outcome. I’m very grateful for his work and highly recommend him to anyone who needs strong legal representation.
- Xhuljana Xhindi, Google Review
He has helped lots of my friends
I have known John Kilcoyne for over 10 years. He is reliable and the best lawyer I have ever had. He is always on the phone day and night in emergencies. He has helped lots of my friends. If you need a lawyer, I would go to John.
- Christina Dougan, Google Review
2. Ron Mackenna Defence Lawyers
Address: First Floor, 40 Carlton Place
Contact: +441412296700
Hours: Open 24 hours
Ron Mackenna Defence Lawyers were the first firm my workmate trusted because they’re road traffic specialists, not generalists dabbling in DUI cases. Knowing Ron Mackenna has spent years focused on traffic law made the choice feel more practical.
They talked him through the procedure, evidence, and likely outcomes without drama. He said it felt like advice shaped by daily court experience, not textbook theory or sales talk.
Their approach was assertive but controlled, especially around licence protection and technical points that can make or break a DUI defence. He got the sense that they know when to push and when to be surgical.
When he was panicking about court dates and paperwork, the firm’s timely and direct communication calmed him down. It also helped that the fees were explained early, and the focus stayed on realistic outcomes rather than guarantees.
However, they’re not a volume firm, so availability can be tighter during busy court weeks. Those needing constant updates or a softer, reassurance-heavy style might find their no-nonsense approach too brisk.
Customer Reviews
He always had my best interests in mind
I can’t thank Ron MacKenna enough for his incredible support and professionalism. From start to finish, he was thorough, responsive, and genuinely dedicated to helping me. He explained everything clearly, made sure I understood my options, and always had my best interests in mind. It made a stressful process much easier knowing I had someone as capable and trustworthy as Ron on my side. I truly appreciate all his hard work and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation.
- K K, Google Review
Ron, Megan and all the staff are brilliant
Ron, Megan and all the staff are brilliant. They do listen to you and do their best to help you. I hadn’t been the best at times with my mood swings and other issues, but they really helped and did all they could do to make sure the best outcome.
- Thomas Robertson, Google Review
3. The Road Traffic Lawyer (Michael Lyon), Glasgow
Address: 165 High Street
Contact: +441415501074
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
Michael Lyon of The Road Traffic Lawyer came highly recommended when my nephew was charged after a blood-alcohol limit reading just 1 mg over the limit. From the first conversation, it was clear this wasn’t treated as “close enough to guilty” but as a technical case worth properly defending.
Michael’s focus on road traffic law really showed in how he broke down margins of error, procedure, and evidential weaknesses. He spoke in specifics: numbers, timings, and protocol, rather than vague reassurance.
The defence was firm but precise, targeting the reliability of the reading rather than arguing emotion or circumstance. That attention to detail paid off, and the charge was successfully defended without unnecessary court theatrics.
My nephew managed to keep panic out of the process, thanks to his lawyer’s direct communication style. As for his mum, she was happy about the upfront fees explained clearly to her, and the strategy matched the realistic prospects of success.
Do note that his practice is highly specialised, so he may not be the fastest option for very minor cases you plan to plead early on. The process can also feel quite technical, which may overwhelm clients looking for simpler explanations or quick resolutions.
Customer Reviews
Kept in touch every step of the way
Dealt with Ronnie recently. Sent an email on Thursday night he was on the phone first thing Friday morning. Understood my predicament, didn’t just tell me what I wanted to hear, he told me the plan. Kept in touch every step of the way and got me exactly what I needed. I hope I never need to use him again, but if I do, I wouldn’t hesitate to definitely recommend this firm and especially Ronnie, a very nice guy and good at what he does.
- Ronald Mclachlan, Google Review
His communication throughout was excellent
I contacted The Road Traffic Lawyer and spoke to Ronnie, who dealt with my case from start to finish. His communication throughout was excellent, and he always kept me updated and reassured. He really took the time to understand my situation and what was at stake for me, and thanks to his hard work and expertise, he achieved the best outcome possible. I am immensely grateful and would highly recommend him and his firm!
- Subham Poddar, Google Review
4. Tod & Mitchell Criminal Defence Solicitors
Address: Terrace Buildings, 4 High Street
Contact: +441418891444
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 8.30 AM–5.30 PM
Friday, 8.30 AM–4 PM
My bestie turned to Tod & Mitchell Criminal Defence because she needed support from the first police interview right through sentencing. From day one, they treated her DUI case as a process to manage carefully, not a single court appearance to survive.
They explained to her what to say, what not to say, and why it mattered later in court. She was impressed with their steadiness during early police questioning, when mistakes were easiest to make.
As the case moved forward, their defence stayed tailored rather than generic. They balanced firmness with realism, adjusting strategy as evidence and sentencing risks became clearer.
She had her anxiety kept in check with consistent and grounded communication, especially during long gaps between hearings. There were no surprises with fees and steps, as both were clearly laid out before the case progressed.
They’re not a niche road-traffic-only firm, though, so ultra-technical test challenges may be referred out or handled more conservatively. Their thorough, staged approach can also feel slower if you’re hoping for a fast resolution.
Customer Reviews
I was so impressed with the way he handled my case
I was represented by Paul Lynch recently. Paul was very supportive and took his time explaining everything carefully to me, as I have a learning disability and find it difficult to process information. I was so impressed with the way he handled my case. He clearly knows all aspects of the law. I really appreciated his help and the great outcome he achieved for me. I will not hesitate to recommend him. Thank you so much, Paul.
- Natalie Mullen, Google Review
Rhona was absolutely fantastic from start to finish
Rhona was absolutely fantastic from start to finish. She genuinely cares about her clients and puts your mind at ease from the very first phone call. She was able to achieve the best possible outcome for me in an extremely difficult situation. It was amazing to see her in action in court. I couldn’t have asked for better representation and cannot recommend her enough.
- L C, Google Review
5. Beltrami & Company Solicitors
Address: 83 Carlton Place
Contact: +441414292262
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9.30 AM–4.30 PM
I knew of a driver with prior DUI convictions who needed help with a new case. I referred him to Beltrami & Company because repeat cases need experience rather than optimism.
From the outset, they addressed the history head-on instead of pretending it wouldn’t matter. It helps that they’re familiar with aggravated and repeat offences under Scottish road traffic law.
They spoke to him plainly about sentencing risk, licence consequences, and what could be realistically mitigated. Their defence style was firm but grounded, focusing on damage control and credibility with the court.
Rather than chasing unlikely wins, they worked instead to limit bans, manage endorsements, and protect his future driving prospects. There was no confusion about what stages of work were included, as the lawyers explained them to him upfront.
That said, their straight-talking style may feel blunt if you’re hoping for reassurance over realism. Ultra-technical test challenges aren’t their main selling point, either.
Customer Reviews
Treated me with the utmost respect, professionalism and compassion
Somehow, gratefully, I ended up leaving a message with Beltrami after calling a long list of lawyers sent by 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 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 for being human.
- Linda, Google Review
I got a very fair outcome with my case
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 recommend them. Thanks in particular to Chris, acting for Beltrami, on my behalf.
- William, Google Review