Paul McBride: Good man to have on your side – in or out of the court

IN RECENT years, Paul McBride had become far better known for his out-of-court persona than as a lawyer, which is a great pity because he was among the elite of the Scottish legal world.

Dabbling in politics and being closely involved in one half of the Old Firm, McBride was rarely out of the headlines, but it’s just as true that he was rarely out of court.

Like Donald Findlay, his fellow QC, McBride became instantly recognisable because of his life beyond the courtroom, yet he maintained his place at the peak of his profession.

McBride was an outstanding performer, whether before a jury or a bench of appeal judges, and, most importantly, he commanded respect among his peers and the judiciary. It had been said that, latterly, he displayed a touch of arrogance, but it was all part of his act and his banter.

And he loved to banter with people. Yes, he could dish it out, but he could take it in return and it was never, never malicious.

Many a journalist had reason to thank their lucky stars for having McBride’s number in their contacts list, for he was always prepared to offer some reasoned and sensible comment, given with great clarity and the assuredness born of knowing his subjects.

His clients also would have been grateful for having McBride on their side in court, and the courts will be all the poorer for his absence.