A second series of The Firm, following lawyer Aamer Anwar and his team, has been commissioned by BBC Scotland and will return to screens in 2025.
The 3 x 45’ series, produced by STV Studios, sees cameras revisit the offices of Aamer Anwar & Co. – one of Scotland’s most prominent law firms – as it takes on some of the biggest social issues facing Scotland and the UK today.
It’s a period of transition for the firm, as it shifts its focus entirely to representing victims whose cases speak directly to major societal issues. But internationally-renowned lawyer Aamer Anwar and his team are not only fighting the victims’ corners; they’re fighting for bigger picture, systematic change at the same time.
Across three episodes – each focused on a different case and issue – the series will uncover what it looks like to challenge the law and change the game, with remarkable behind-the-scenes access to Scotland’s legal industry, as well as in-depth interviews with Anwar, his fearless team of legal experts, the families of victims, and an array of insiders.
With the legal process often being a long and multi-faceted road filled with tactical manoeuvres, setbacks, controversies and battles, The Firm will give viewers a unique and unfiltered insight into Anwar and his team’s personal motivations and professional determination.
Aamer Anwar said: “The legal system across the UK is in a state of crisis, whilst globally, human rights are under attack. In these times of fear, hatred and violence, it is often very difficult to fight for the right of the demonised, downtrodden and marginalised. Our team of lawyers is on the frontline defending those rights, and this series will shine a light on the blood, sweat and tears that goes into the legal battles we fight.”
The Firm (3 x 45’) is produced by STV Studios for BBC Scotland. It is commissioned by David Harron, Commissioning Executive for BBC Scotland. Executive Producers are Craig Hunter, Creative Director of STV Studios Factual, and Rosy Marshall-McCrae. The series is directed by Iain MacAulay and produced by Noor Abdel-Razik.
The first series of The Firm aired on BBC Scotland in October 2023 and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
David Harron, Commissioning Executive for BBC Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to return to The Firm for a second series, following Aamer Anwar and colleagues. Aamer is one of Scotland’s most high-profile figures and this promises to further provide the audience with an engrossing look behind the scenes of both the compelling legal business in Scotland and the cut and thrust of the world in which they operate.”
Craig Hunter, Creative Director of STV Studios Factual, said: “The first series of The Firm offered unprecedented access into one of the most high-profile criminal defence law firms in the UK, and it was a privilege to follow the personal motivations and professional challenges of Aamer Anwar and his team. In this refocused second series, we explore the systematic injustices facing Scotland today, through the people fighting for justice and the victims at the heart of the cases.
“The Firm series two promises to be a fascinating insight into how Scotland works – with real people, real high stakes, and no doubt sparking real debate. It’s true crime storytelling that impacts every single one of us.”
Pippa Considine
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