about Lockharts/law
about Lockharts/law
At Lockharts Law, everything we do is built around people.
We understand that behind every legal matter is something important - your home, your business, your family, or your future. That’s why we take a personal approach to every client we work with.
You’ll never feel like just another file on a desk. We take the time to listen, understand what matters to you, and guide you with clear, practical advice.
Our Approach
Legal matters can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to be.
We focus on making things straightforward. We explain your options clearly, keep you informed at every stage, and make sure you feel confident in every decision you make.
Our role is simple: to protect your interests and make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Our Values
- Clarity - No jargon, just straightforward advice
- Trust - Long-term relationships built on honesty
- Efficiency - Responsive and proactive service
- Expertise - Strong legal knowledge across key sectors
Our History
- Lockharts is founded
John Lockhart establishes the firm in Wellington Square, Ayr, laying the foundations for what would become Ayrshire's oldest surviving firm of solicitors.
- Serving Victorian Ayr
John Lockhart becomes Sheriff Clerk, with the firm providing legal services during a period of rapid industrial and commercial growth across Ayrshire.
- Second generation leads the firm
John's sons, William and George Lockhart, are running the practice as John W & G Lockhart, offering a full range of legal services from premises in Sandgate, Ayr.
- Expansion in Ayr
The firm relocates to High Street, where it continues to grow under the third generation of the Lockhart family.
- Growth across Ayrshire
Lockharts expands beyond Ayr, opening offices in Kilmarnock, Irvine, Cumnock and Stranraer, becoming one of the region's best-known legal practices.
- Fourth generation joins
Peter Lockhart joins the family firm in 1979 and becomes a Partner in 1980, continuing an unbroken family involvement spanning four generations.
- Move to Berkeley House
The firm relocates from High Street to Berkeley House, Barns Street, reflecting its continued expansion and growing client base.
- Strengthening commercial expertise
Stephen Bradford joins the firm in 2002 after a successful career with corporate law firms and becomes a Partner in 2004, broadening the firm's commercial and property services.
- New headquarters
Lockharts moves to its current offices at 12 Beresford Terrace, Ayr, where it continues to expand its services and team.
- Agricultural law expertise
Margo McGill joins as a Partner, bringing specialist expertise in agricultural and rural law. She becomes Ayrshire's only solicitor accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a Specialist in Agricultural Law.
- Lockharts Law LLP is formed
The practice adopts its current LLP structure while continuing the firm's uninterrupted heritage dating back to 1876.
- Welcoming Martin & Company
Martin & Company Solicitors joins Lockharts Law, further strengthening the firm's private client and legal services across Ayrshire.
- National recognition
Lockharts is named High Street Law Firm of the Year at The Herald Law Awards, recognising excellence in client service and legal practice.
- Private Client Development
David Leishman joins the firm in August 2022, assuming as partner in November 2023, developing and strengthening the firms private client department.
- A new chapter
Peter Lockhart retires from court practice after an outstanding legal career but remains involved as a Partner/Consulting Partner, marking the end of continuous day-to-day management by the Lockhart family while preserving its legacy within the firm.
- 150 Years of Lockharts
Lockharts celebrates its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of trusted legal advice, community service and innovation. Today, the firm continues to serve individuals, families, farmers and businesses across Ayrshire while remaining committed to the values established by John Lockhart in 1876.
