Briefing Note Scottish Law - The Differences

in Scotland since 26 March 2006. " Legal terminology is not the same, and legal terms of art do not always translate meaningfully. " The Scottish Court system differs, so dispute resolution needs local advice " Debt recovery and execution (called diligence in Scotland) operates in a uniquely Scottish manner.<br><br> With the correct wording, Franchisors in Scotland can register their agreements and move directly to diligence without the expense of requiring a court decree. " The formal requirements for execution of documents and deeds are different to those of England & Wales. Why the differences?<br><br> 3 A wee gallop through history Strange as it may seem for such a small group of islands, in legal terms, Scotland is a separate country to the rest of the British Isles. Up until 1707, Scotland was a fully independent country with its own legal system and parliament. In 1707, the Act of Union was signed and Scotland became part of the British Isles but the separate Scots law was preserved.<br><br> Over time, elements of the Scottish legal system moved into line, in certain areas, with the English & Welsh legal system. Today, 300 years later, Scots law is still different in several key areas including licensing, personal law and, in particular, property law. These substantial differences in law can cause confusion for franchises moving into Scotland who often make the incorrect assumption that what applies in England & Wales applies in Scotland.<br><br> WJM works with English solicitors and their franchise clients to help overcome these differences by applying the 8tartan touch 9. For more information on applying the 8tartan touch 9 contact: Angus MacLeod: agm@wjm.co.uk 0141 248 3434 Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP The information contained in this newsletter is for general guidance only and represents our understanding of relevant law and practice as June 2008. Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP cannot be held responsible for any action taken, or any failure to act, in reliance upon the contents.<br><br> Specific advice should be taken on any individual matter. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered office: 302 St Vincent Street, Glasgow, G2 5RZ.<br><br> A limited liability partnership registered in Sc otland, number SO 300336.

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