Our real estate litigation practice is top-rated. And for good reason.


The depth and breadth of our experience are combined with a genuine understanding of the real estate market (not something your average litigation lawyer will be able to offer).

Much of the business of estate litigation involves proper risk assessment and calculated risk-taking. The firm's specialist team of real estate litigation lawyers is regarded as a leader in Scotland in collaborating with clients to help them evaluate and manage their risks and disputes.

We deliver what clients need - the way they want it.

Whatever your dispute, we’ve got what it takes to resolve it.

Burness Paull's real estate litigation lawyers advise on:

The full range of real estate disputes including landlord & tenant issues (including, dilapidations, irritancy, alienation, service charge, access rights, notices, business interruption etc. telecommunications disputes) as well as options agreements in development matters, boundary and land disputes, and title issues including servitudes and burdens.

The team works for property developers, institutional investors, office, industrial and retail landlords and tenants, as well as local authorities, government bodies, banks and others. We also have significant experience in renewables, technology and telecoms.

Our real estate litigation lawyers are skilled in alternative forms of dispute resolution and we will always work with our clients for the best resolution whether that is by negotiation, arbitration, mediation, expert determination or litigation.

All of our team has bespoke mediation training. Alan McMillan who leads the team is an accredited specialist in arbitration, and the level of experience available ensures you have access to lawyers who really know their way around the sector.

We have handled some of the biggest most significant real estate disputes in Scotland in recent years including:

  • Grove v Cape
  • Mapeley v City of Edinburgh Council
  • AMA x McKenna
  • Hill of Rubislaw v Rubislaw Quarry Aberdeen Limited
  • St. Andrews University v Headon Holdings Limited
"Burness Paull are market leading in Scotland for property litigation. They have in-depth knowledge and are always seeking the best results for clients."
- Legal 500 UK, 2023