Over the years he conducted many criminal and civil cases in courts throughout Scotland, and occasionally beyond. He built up the business, and as it grew, he was joined by colleagues who have all brought their own substantial contribution to the firm.

In the last few years Austin has come to concentrate more on business law and commercial property work – leases, purchases and sales, acquisitions, security transactions and corporate restructuring. He also deals in wills, powers of attorney and executries for the firm’s many private clients.

Throughout his career Austin has had a unique professional life. He has written and broadcast on legal issues for the general public, on radio, television, the internet and in newspapers and periodicals. He has worked for BBC, STV, many local radio stations and news organisations. Austin also advises national newspapers and media organisations on their output. He has been for several years the Chair of Judges for the Scottish National Press Awards. He is also a trained and experienced Samaritan.

Austin is married and has two adult children – one of whom is a solicitor in London. He has run many road races including several marathons, the most recent being London 2015, and has raised tens of thousands of pounds for various charities. His main sport is karate – he is now a fourth Dan black belt. Austin has also worked for many years as a professional artist, specialising in drawn and painted portraits – both human and animal!