Licensing

Decisions taken by local licensing authorities can impact on many areas of daily life. Morton Fraser MacRoberts' highly regarded licensing lawyers can assist you in navigating the rules regarding licences regulating the operation of a wide range of businesses, from liquor licences to taxis and from scrap metal merchant to market stalls.

MFMac are proud to represent some of Scotland's foremost hospitality providers. Our experienced solicitors advise a wide variety of businesses including hotel chains, drinks producers, sole traders, members' clubs and public bodies, all of which have different licensing needs and require bespoke, practical advice to obtain the permissions they require to operate lawfully.

We advise on all aspects of alcohol licensing in Scotland on a daily basis, and very well versed in advising on the licensing regime in terms of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982.

Our team has expertise in providing valued and practical advice to clients in licensing matters from the inception of a project, right through to its completion and beyond.

We regularly appear before Licensing Boards and Committees throughout Scotland and are able to advise and deal with appeals to both the Sheriff Court and the Court of Session.

David is very familiar with licensing laws and the procedure for obtaining a licence, and handles it with mastery.

Chambers and Partners

The licensing practice is led by the ‘diligent and tenacious’ David Hossack, who has extensive experience appearing before Scottish Licensing Boards and dealing with licensing appeals and applications.

Legal 500

The team has covered every issue that has come up and more importantly has forewarned us of potential issues that we may not have anticipated.

Chambers and Partners

We value their practical approach and breadth of services, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to appoint a single trusted source for expert advice and support.

Chambers and Partners

The firm has always been able to navigate any complex challenges admirably.

Chambers and Partners

The team is highly professional and takes great care of its customers. Everything is executed well, from start to finish.

Chambers and Partners UK Guide 2025

Range of skills and specialties available. A one-stop shop.

Legal 500

The firm has a strong ability to handle complex matters, with a team that always listens and gives a range of options.

Chambers and Partners

MFMac is very proactive and great at getting back and answering queries quickly.

Chambers and Partners

MFMac has good contacts and an understanding of how the Licensing Board operates.

Chambers and Partners

We appreciate the communication, reliability and professionalism from the MFMac staff.

Chambers and Partners

MFMac excels in terms of responsiveness, commerciality and pragmatism. They take time to really understand our business, and operate as an extension of the team.

Chambers and Partners

MFMac understands the complex nature of our business and requirements, and as a firm they truly know their client.

Chambers and Partners

Diverse range of expertise of the team, they listen to the issues first before making recommendations and work through the options with you.

LEGAL 500

David Hossack, a powerful mediator and he is able to understand what a client needs for their business to be successful.

LEGAL 500

The team is very knowledgeable about current rules and are quick to respond with detailed advice.

LEGAL 500

The team are very attentive and responsive to our needs.

LEGAL 500

The MFMac Team have a very detailed knowledge of Scottish licensing law and regulation and are diligent and proactive in how they assist clients to navigate those rules and ensure compliance is maintained.

LEGAL 500

MFMac are justifiably renowned for their licensing expertise and we have found to them to be extremely proactive in dealing with our licensing matters.

LEGAL 500