Nearly half of the current intake of MSPs (64 out of 129) are serving in Holyrood for the first time, the highest number since the Scottish Parliament was established in 1999.

This comes amid growing concern about threats to the rule of law, following a period of constitutional uncertainty after Brexit and landmark Supreme Court rulings.

Whether they are proposing bills, voting on legislation or taking part in committees, MSPs have to engage with complex legal questions every day.

Law for Scottish Lawmakers aims to provide an accessible introduction to the key features of the legal landscape – from devolution to human rights – helping politicians of all parties make laws effectively and represent their constituents. 

Developed by JUSTICE Scotland with Brodies LLP, it aims to equip MSPs and their staff with the tools to improve legislation and strengthen democratic standards. It is being delivered to the offices of all MSPs from today.

Chair of JUSTICE Scotland, Usman Tariq KC, said: “A better understanding of the law can improve the quality of political debate, strengthen parliamentary scrutiny, and ensure that laws are both effective in practice and robust in principle. It can help safeguard the values of the Scottish Parliament inscribed on its Mace – wisdom, justice, compassion and integrity – which should underpin all legislative decision-making.”

First Minister John Swinney said: “A clear understanding of Scotland’s legal and constitutional framework is essential to informed law-making, effective scrutiny and robust parliamentary debate.

“As many MSPs begin their first term in Parliament, this guide will help develop that understanding by providing an accessible overview of the Scottish legal system and the respective roles of Parliament, government and the judiciary. 

“I welcome its publication and the support it will provide to new and returning MSPs and their staff as they carry out their parliamentary responsibilities.”

It also has the support of the Lord President, Lord Pentland, who provides the guide’s foreword. He said: “The guide explains the key features of Scotland’s justice system with impressive clarity, making a valuable contribution to the vitally important task of upholding and strengthening the rule of law. As head of the Scottish judiciary, I welcome its publication and commend it to everyone involved or interested in the making of laws affecting Scotland.”

A spokesperson for Brodies LLP added: “We were pleased to work with JUSTICE on this guide for Scottish lawmakers. The constitutional backdrop in Scotland has evolved significantly since the Scottish Parliament was established in 1999, and a record number of MSPs elected in 2026 were elected for the first time. We hope that this guide will equip all MSPs, alongside Scottish MPs and peers, to fulfil their roles as custodians of a democratic society founded on the rule of law.”