Licensing

Guiding you through the licensing maze

Decisions taken by local authority Licensing Boards impact on virtually all aspects of daily life from liquor licences to taxis and from scrap merchants to market stalls. These are just a few of the everyday activities that all need to go through a valid licensing process to operate legally.

Morton Fraser has the experience, expertise and relationships built over many years to guide you through what is required from the licensing authorities, depending on what activity you are planning and more importantly how to successfully get the approval you need.

We also provide updates and seminars to keep you informed of changes in terms of national Licensing legislation and about changes to local regulations that might affect you.

Whether it's a new licensed premises, a renewal or you need represented at a Licensing Board meeting we can help.

We have a dedicated team focused exclusively on licensing issues. As well as companies large and small and individual clients our expertise is often requested by other firms who need specialist licensing advice for one of their own clients.

So, whether the project is just beginning, well underway, or experiencing problems feel free to contact us for some advice.

Services

We can help with:

• New projects
• Large scale licence transfers
• Advice on any activity that needs a local authority licence including betting and gaming, food, alcohol and entertainment
• Representation at Licensing Board meetings,
• Objections to licensing applications

What the legal directories say

The licensing team at Morton Fraser works closely with the firm's commercial property division, providing clients with a start-to-finish service from liquor licensing applications through to conveyancing. The group, which is led by litigator David Hossack, is also experienced in handling prosecutions for alleged weight and measures offences and sales to underage drinkers. It has acted for clients ranging from giants of the industry, like Diageo, Waverley TBS and Thistle Hotels, down to local golf clubs, rugby clubs and schools wishing to stage social events.

Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession 2006

Morton Fraser's clients include drinks group Diageo and Next Generation. It also acts for pubs, restaurants and off licences, and recently advised various sports clubs in relation to registration and licensing issues.

Legal 500 UK Directory 2006

If you have a query about licensing why not speak to our head of licensing, David Hossack on 0131 247 1024.