Harbottle & Lewis LLP > London, England > Firm Profile
Harbottle & Lewis LLP Offices
7 Savoy Court
LONDON
WC2R 0EX
England
Harbottle & Lewis LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Film & TV Tier 1
Under the leadership of Sarah Lazarides, Harbottle & Lewis LLP guides global giants such as Apple and Netflix through high-profile productions, with advice ranging from financing and production to distribution and exploitation. The team also undertakes varied work for UK indies, such as Box to Box Films, acting with equal measure on scripted and unscripted productions, as well as well-known celebrities and rightsholders. Other recommended individuals include Jonathan Berger and Abigail Payne, renowned for their expertise in digital content and structuring international co-productions, respectively. Local language production specialist Hannah Wylie joined in December 2022.Practice head(s):
Sarah Lazarides
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Diligent and able to understand client timelines. They care about honouring business practices and preferences.’
‘Sarah Lazarides is sophisticated, reliable and provides clear guidance. She is well versed in the entertainment space when it comes to all matters involving film and television.’
Key clients
Box to Box Films
Working Title Films
Lime Pictures
Complete Fiction Pictures
Apple
The Earthshot Prize
Storror Parkour Limited
Magic Light
Rebellion Entertainment Limited
Netflix Studios
Work highlights
- Advice to Box to Box Films on clearance, production and rights issues across their high-end documentary productions broadcasted on HBO, Netflix and Apple TV, among others.
- Advised Working Title Films on matters relating to the development and production of their films, including the feature film “Ticket to Paradise”, starring George Clooney and Julia Roberts.
- Advised Lime Pictures on the arrangements for a children’s programme it was making for Netflix, which involved drafting an animation services agreement and handling protracted and contentious contract negotiations with the animation services supplier.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Media finance Tier 1
Harbottle & Lewis LLP's finance expertise spans all media-related sectors, including film and television, music, theatre, publishing and video games. Reflective of practice head Abigail Payne's capabilities, the team provides advice on all aspects of film and television financing, production and distribution to a mixture of financiers, producers, content creators and rights-holders; it has a particular specialism in structuring and implementing EIS and SEIS finance. Local language productions expert Hannah Wylie joined in December 2022.Practice head(s):
Abigail Payne
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Marv Studios
all3media Group
Microsoft
Neal Street Productions
Hopster
Punchdrunk Global Limited
Finstock Capital
Pixion Games
LA Media Fund
Secret Group
Jamie Hendry Productions
Gutsy Animations UK
Chris Young Films
Jovera Pictures
Rebellion Entertainment
Kindred Concepts Limited
Rainmaker Content
Entertainment Film Distributors
Greenacre Films
Work highlights
- Advised Rebellion Entertainment Limited on the co-financing and co-production of an animated feature film adaptation of “Rogue Trooper”.
- Advised Kindred Concepts Limited on their plans and series seed investment to launch F1 Arcade, a new immersive social entertainment venue concept incorporating F1 racing simulators.
- Advised Marv Studios on banking and other financing arrangements for their latest feature film “Argylle” to be shown on Apple TV.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media Tier 1
With Neil Adleman, Harbottle & Lewis LLP is renowned for its strong international theatre practice and is a regular fixture on West End and Broadway productions, with a particular specialism in financing structures. Other clients include subsidised theatres and fringe producers, dance and immersive theatre production companies, drama schools, investors and charities. With Shireen Peermohamed, the firm is also known for its wide-ranging publishing expertise; she has extensive experience in IP and contractual disputes, related advisory work, and publishing agreements. The team acts for blue-chip clients like Hachette, academic publishers and rights holders, in addition to brands, bands and high-profile individuals.Practice head(s):
Neil Adleman; Shireen Peermohamed
Other key lawyers:
Harry Bresslaw; Zoey Forbes; Georgina Long
Testimonials
‘Always impressed with the excellent service from this firm.’
‘Excellent service and attention from Neil Adleman.’
‘Always offer practical advice with our business objectives in mind.’
‘Shireen Peermohamed and Zoey Forbes are great to work with.’
‘The associates are technically very good and a pleasure to work with.’
‘The advice is practical, applicable and gets to the heart of the business objective.’
‘Neil Adleman and Shireen Peermohamed are both are at the top of their game – they are across all the new technologies and always one step ahead in considering commercial strategies.’
‘Shireen Peermohamed and Zoey Forbes work with us and I would recommend them without hesitation.’
Key clients
National Theatre
Sonia Friedman Productions
The Old Vic
Donmar Warehouse
Punchdrunk
Sadler’s Wells
Playful Productions
Michael Cassel Group
Fictionhouse
Ed Mirvish Enterprises
Neal Street Productions
Elliott & Harper Productions
Colin Ingram Limited
Fiery Angel Limited
Hachette UK
#Merky Books Limited
Rebellion Publishing
The Publishers Association
The Association of Learned and Professional Society Publishers
The British Journal of Anaesthesia
Dazed Group Ltd
The Association of Authors Agents
The Estate of Sir Terry Pratchett
Xena Knox
Work highlights
- Acted as production counsel to various West End producers on shows including The Lehman Trilogy, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and Jerusalem, among others.
- Advising #Merky Books Limited on its publishing arrangements.
- Advising Hachette on a range of commercial and IP matters.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Video games Tier 1
Harbottle & Lewis LLP is the first port of call for global publishers and IP owners, including Take-Two Interactive, Electronic Arts and SEGA, in addition to leading trade associations, indie studios and esports organisations. With combined expertise in commercial, corporate, IP and regulatory matters, Mark Phillips and Kostyantyn Lobov co-head the firm’s interactive entertainment group. Also recommended is Rupam Davé for his involvement in tech and commercial partnerships, which includes advising on emerging technologies, adtech and software licensing, among others.Practice head(s):
Kostyantyn Lobov; Mark Phillips
Other key lawyers:
Rupam Dave; Charles Leveque
Testimonials
‘The team has a distinct boutique feel and as such is making a particular effort to understand the client’s particular situation, providing advice with this in mind.’
‘The individuals are very available and prompt in their responses – their knowledge of the law and the industry sector is profound and very helpful.’
‘We have enjoyed the collaboration with Kostyantyn Lobov and Charles Leveque – both are knowledgeable, responsive and pragmatic.’
‘Kostyantyn Lobov provides consistently excellent and pragmatic advice.’
Key clients
SEGA
Take-Two Interactive
Electronic Arts
The Pokémon Company International
Square Enix
Rebellion
Supersonic
Electric Noir
Kindred Concepts
UKIE
Work highlights
- Advising SEGA on tech and data protection matters pertaining to development, customer contracting, cloud arrangements and outsourcing.
- Advice to Take-Two Interactive on commercial, tech, advertising and regulatory matters relating to iconic games franchises, such as GTA, which defined their respective genres.
- Advising Electronic Arts on their UK trademark portfolio.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management Tier 1
With a focus on preventative work, Harbottle & Lewis LLP‘s ‘best in class’ reputation management practice advises on all aspects of defamation, privacy, breach of confidence, defamation and information law. The team works on behalf of a range of corporates and UHNWIs across the entertainment, media and sports sectors. Senior partner Gerrard Tyrrell has over 35 years of experience working for some of the most influential people in the country, including members of the Royal Family and former prime ministers, as well as powerful industry names in the US tech sector. John Kelly deals with reputation protection for leading figures in the entertainment and sport arenas. Senior associate Louise Prince is known for her experience with privacy issues, while Amy Bradbury has a strong track record in data protection work.Practice head(s):
Gerrard Tyrrell; John Kelly
Other key lawyers:
Emma Wright; Daniel Marks; Andrew Terry; Louise Prince; Amy Bradbury; Elizabeth McClenan
Testimonials
‘Always professional, highly knowledgeable and experienced, comprehensively accessible, happy to go the extra mile.’
‘Fantastic to work with, excellent at client relations, calm under fire, knowledgeable and reassuring.’
‘Excellent knowledge and experience in this practice area, especially John Kelly.’
‘The Harbottle & Lewis team have a wonderful ‘family’ feel about them. They are professionally robust, honest and discreet whilst maintaining a sense of fun and light-heartedness over some difficult and pressing issues. As a result, they are a pleasure to work with and for.’
‘John Kelly and team are simply best in class. They specialise in the complicated and do it better than all others.’
‘John Kelly is the leading advisor in this space bar none. He is an excellent advisor and client handler.’
‘Gerrard Tyrell: a leader in the field, clientele are second to none. John Kelly: experienced, hard working, client friendly and practical.’
Key clients
All of the most senior members of The Royal Family, including HM The Queen, HM The King and Queen Consort and TRH The Prince and Princess of Wales
Former First Lady of the United States Melania Trump
Sir Richard Branson
David and Victoria Beckham
Kate Moss
David Ross
Gordon Ramsay
Matthew Vaughn and Claudia Schiffer
Soho House
The Estate of Shane Warne
Iceland
Universal
Pets at Home Limited
Work highlights
- Represented Alexandra Pettifer (also known as Tiggy Legge-Bourke) in proceedings against the BBC for defamation over false claims made during the making of the Panorama interview with Diana, Princess of Wales and obtained a statement in open court from the BBC as well as substantial damages.
- Representing a number of high-profile victims of phone hacking who are pursuing claims against News Group Newspapers and Mirror Group Newspapers.
- Representing IS Prime, a brokerage business, in pursuing a claim in malicious falsehood over false statements made by a competitor and its head of compliance.
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Smaller Deals, £10m-£100m Tier 2
Noted for its strong sense of interoffice collaboration, Harbottle & Lewis LLP possesses a wealth of experience across the technology, retail, leisure, media and entertainment, and private client services sectors, handling a considerable volume of transactions for a diverse roster of clients. The corporate team is chaired by managing partner Charles Lévêque, whose recent engagements include high-profile acquisitions in the technology, media and retail sectors. Colin Howes provides specialist corporate finance and strategic advice on buying and selling businesses, joint ventures and commercial agreements. Tim Parker advises on a wide range of corporate and finance transactions, typically for entrepreneurial and talent-led businesses.Practice head(s):
Charles Leveque
Other key lawyers:
Colin Howes; Tim Parker; Mark Phillips; Rhys Llewellyn; Tony Littner; Edward Lane; Tom Macleod; Katerina Capras
Key clients
David and Victoria Beckham (DB Ventures Limited)
Secret Group Limited (Secret Cinema)
Vaix Limited
Lab-Craft Holdings Limited
Laundryheap Limited
Futrli Limited
Verbit, Inc.
TPXimpact Holdings Plc
Podcast Awards Ltd
Kindle Entertainment Limited
Driift Holdings Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised David and Victoria Beckham in relation to the strategic partnership that they entered into with Authentic Brands Group (ABG) relating to the ownership and development of the David Beckham brand.
- Advised Secret Group Limited, the immersive entertainment company behind Secret Cinema, on the USD$100m sale by the company’s shareholders, led by Active Partners, to global e-commerce/ticketing platform TodayTix Group.
- Advised the shareholders of Vaix Limited (Vaix), a leading developer of AI solutions specifically designed for the iGaming industry, on its acquisition by Sportradar Group (NASDAQ; SRAD), a global provider of sports data and content.
Employment > Senior executives Tier 2
Specialising in employment issues in the creative sectors, Harbottle & Lewis LLP advises a range of senior executives on a breadth of issues. Co-headed by Yvonne Gallagher and Howard Hymanson, the team regularly handles shock termination cases, High Court occupational stress claims, and exit packages. Also working in the financial and technology fields, the team handles corporate reshuffling, sensitive and complex investigatory work, and sex discrimination and bullying claims.Practice head(s):
Yvonne Gallagher; Howard Hymanson
Testimonials
‘The team are exceptionally thorough in their work, assuring absolute confidence in their work and advice.’
‘Really felt valued, respected and most importantly, listened to. I felt confident that the outcome would be successful.’
‘Personable touch and care with attention to detail every step of the way.’
Work highlights
- Represented Joanna Torode in a High Court occupational health stress claim, seeking personal injury damages against her employer Ropes & Gray.
- Advised the Managing Director of one of the UK’s major record labels on the shock termination of his employment, his potential claims against the record label and increasing the exit package offered.
Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2
The busy team at Harbottle & Lewis LLP advises corporate foundations, media-related fundraising charities and not-for-profit organisations on issues such as mergers and reorganisations, as well as innovative funding and investment models. Under the direction of David Scott and Colin Howes, the excellent team frequently works with the firm's reputation management group to help clients that face public scrutiny. In addition, it has been working with its private client colleagues to advise on the establishment of philanthropic foundations. At associate level, May Delaney has a varied practice; she has recently advised trustees on their investments in NFTs, and assisted with placing a high-profile charity into dormancy.Practice head(s):
David Scott; Colin Howes
Other key lawyers:
May Delaney; Katerina Capras; Emily Miles
Testimonials
‘The team is extremely knowledgeable and is also able to connect us to other specialisms in the company to ensure we’re the best we can be. All the people we have worked with are great communicators – able to speak without jargon‘.
‘Harbottle & Lewis have been a great firm to work with. The breadth of the sectors they cover is incredibly helpful as we work across charity, private client, and corporate. Therefore, Harbottle go the extra mile to engage internal expertise to provide their high-level service. They are responsive, clear and easy to work with’.
‘Colin Howes and Emily Miles are both highly skilled, approachable lawyers, who respond quickly and helpfully to queries. They have both supported on complex topics, ensuring that the charity remains comfortably within its charitable remit’.
‘Katerina Capras is an approachable, thoughtful and highly knowledgeable individual. She is extremely good at communicating complexity with simplicity and clarity, enabling trustees to make informed decisions. We always value her calm and clear analysis and proportionate approach’.
‘We work with May Delaney – she has made a proactive effort to get to know our organisation. It’s clear she builds significant trust with her clients and provides a holistic service, referring to others where necessary. May is lovely to work with – when you are speaking with May, there is no jargon! I appreciate her patience, warmth and clarity’.
‘Highly experienced in a wide range of situations, capable, very good at the extra bits around the edge which straddle into other areas, empathetic. David Scott – highly experienced. good all rounder, good on costs. May Delaney – highly experienced, very responsive, a rising star’.
‘The team at Harbottle are highly knowledgeable on charity law, responsive to queries and pragmatic. They are able to take a complex topic and clearly outline the legal requirements.’
Key clients
The Wigmore Hall
Screen Academy Foundation
The Talent Fund
Virgin Unite
Film London
Make My Money Matter
Dance Umbrella
Theatr Clwyd Trust Ltd
Modern Masterpieces
Semble Network
Merky Foundation
We Imagine If
Association of Applied Biologists
Centre For Entrepreneurs
Creatures United
The Earthshot Prize
The Platinum Jubilee Pageant
Work highlights
- Advised The Talent Fund on Ed Sheeran’s “For One Night Only” intimate one-off concert in London to raise funds for mental health support charity, Shout.
- Advised the Platinum Jubilee Pageant on the charitable arrangements relating to Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant in June 2022.
- Advised The Earthshot Prize in connection with the transmission of the 2022 awards ceremony held in Boston, US and broadcast globally.
Private client > Family Tier 2
Harbottle & Lewis LLP receives many plaudits for its ‘superb team’, which is led by Catherine Bedford, ‘the Boadicea of the family law world’ who ‘runs chariots through opponents’ defences’. The agile team covers both financial and children work, most often representing ultra-high-net-worth clients. It has substantial expertise in complex children cases involving issues of domestic abuse and coercive control, as well as parental alienation. Nicholas Westley has particular expertise in nuptial and cohabitation agreements, while Mark Irving garners praise for his ‘combination of brains and humanity’. In team news, Lidia Cantele and Alex Ward were promoted to the partnership in June 2022.Practice head(s):
Catherine Bedford
Other key lawyers:
Nicholas Westley; Mark Irving; Lidia Cantele; Naomi Myatt; Alex Ward; Eleanor Haidon; Xander Drury; Daisy Minns Shearer; Emma Williams; Polly Broad
Testimonials
‘I trust Mark Irving completely and felt that he was on my side, and Naomi was very thorough and sensible and didn’t beat around the bush. She gave good advice and listened to my concerns. Both Naomi and Mark worked above and beyond to get me a result.’
‘Catherine Bedford inspires real loyalty, attracts the best talent, and retains it. She is a great rainmaker and creates strong personal relationships with the wealthiest and (sometimes) most demanding of client. Her trademark is ‘tell it like it is, and they will appreciate it.’ Mark Irving is so clever and so dedicated.’
‘A stellar team who are very highly regarded and deal with the most complex cases. They can walk a client through stormy waters with ease and are a very united group who all offer something unique, whether it be client skills, preparation of documents or unravelling a legal problem. They are all over everything.’
‘Catherine Bedford and Mark Irving are both exceptional family lawyers with prodigious work rates, offering exceptional client care and first-rate legal advice.’
‘Lidia Cantele is pragmatic, efficient and a real pleasure to deal with. Daisy Minns Shearer is conscientious, hard working and highly motivated. Both Lidia and Daisy have a very human approach and are very well-regarded.’
‘The team I work with are first rate, incredibly efficient, responsive, and always very accommodating. Particular mention goes out to Catherine Bedford, Mark Irving, Eleanor Haidon, Lidia Cantele, Polly Broad and Xander Drury.’
‘Super committed bunch who go well above and beyond the normal expectations of what lawyers will do for their clients.’
‘Nicholas Westley runs a superb team.’
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing Tier 2
Sacha Wilson and Michael Lister jointly co-head the 'excellent' practice at Harbottle & Lewis LLP, which is known for its 'very strong eye for detail'. The team is 'incredibly knowledgeable' when it comes to advertisement production issues and ASA investigations, and regularly dispenses advice on adtech issues and sponsorship deals. Wilson is 'second to none', and often gives 'perfectly-pitched' advice to global brands and agency groups on ASA investigations and data privacy issues relating to adtech and digital media; and Lister assists a number of brand ambassadors and influencers with the negotiation of agreements. Andrew Terry utilises his longstanding expertise in IP to handle advertising and branding disputes, and often advises clients on ASA and Clearcast related issues. Rupam Davé joined the team from Deloitte Legal in April 2023, contributing his knowledge of technology contracting.Practice head(s):
Sacha Wilson; Michael Lister
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Terry; Kostyantyn Lobov; Rupam Davé; Amabel Torrance; Shireen Peermohamed
Testimonials
‘Sacha Wilson and his team are truly ahead of the curve – whether it is their dedication to understanding and supporting businesses, their responsiveness and timely delivery, or the knowledge and insight they can provide across all aspects of advertising and marketing work. Thank you for all your work and support!’
‘Excellent team, incredibly knowledgeable. They listen carefully to the brief and always provide excellent advice. Very strong eye for detail.’
‘Sacha Wilson stands out. His knowledge and experience of the wider digital market really is second to none. What makes him particularly good is his ability to communicate to and tailor to different audiences and provide a bridge between them, and his ability to get into the weeds with legal peers.’
‘Harbottle & Lewis has offered invaluable support to our organisation over the past two years. Their personal and timely approach, niche practice areas, and the prior industry experience of a number for their lawyers are standout strengths.’
‘Sacha Wilson is an incredible support to our business. We value his in-depth technology, data and industry experience; and his timely, pragmatic and perfectly-pitched advice. We can’t recommend him highly enough. (We wish we could clone him in every jurisdiction!)’
Key clients
P&O Cruises
Havas
Interpublic
Headspace
MOB Kitchen
Diageo
Expedia
Nissan
De Beers
Shein
David Beckham
Hamza Yassin
Hunter Boots
The Ozone Project
Incorporated Society of British Advertisers (ISBA)
Fnatic
Take-Two Interactive
Pokémon
Work highlights
- Advised Havas London on the ASDA Christmas 2022 advertising campaign featuring Will Ferrell.
- Advised P&O Cruises on its brand ambassador deal with the American singer and celebrity Nicole Scherzinger.
- Advised Ozone Project on its deal to onboard the BuzzFeed UK and HuffPost UK sites onto the Ozone Project advertising platform.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Music Tier 2
Harbottle & Lewis LLP's is a regular port of call for some of the UK's leading artist, producer and songwriter talent, independent record and publishing companies, managers, promoters, executives and digital platforms. Reflective of practice head and commercial expert Kieran Jay 's expertise, the team advises talent on all aspects of their careers, including management agreements, record, distribution and publishing deals, endorsement deals, merchandise deals and joint ventures.Practice head(s):
Kieran Jay
Key clients
Queen
Stormzy
Central Cee
Little Simz
Jess Glynne
Katherine Jenkins
Paolo Nutini
Mahalia
Daniel Avery
SBTRKT
Work highlights
- Advising Jess Glynne on her new exclusive worldwide recording agreement with EMI Records.
- Advised Stormzy on his new significant endorsement partnership with Adidas.
Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 3
While it does handle some funds work, Harbottle & Lewis LLP remains best-known for its company side credentials, and the ability to guide investees in the media and entertainment and technology sectors from an early stage through subsequent funding sounds associated with scaling-up their operations. In this context, the team provides ‘very competitive pricing for early stage startups’, and is also noted for its ‘very forward thinking’, a consequence of which is cost savings for the client further down the line. Team head Tony Littner ‘knows the VC landscape inside and out’, and provides a ‘fantastic customer service’, particularly to entrepreneurial businesses in the technology sector. Senior associate Tom Macleod is also a key member of the team and as well as regularly providing vital support to Littner on his deals, is also developing his own practice, with a focus on servicing high growth tech companies throughout the funding continuum.Practice head(s):
Tony Littner
Other key lawyers:
Charles Leveque; Tom Macleod; Katerina Capras; Alex Gays
Testimonials
‘The team has fantastic knowledge and are always there to help. They are a diverse team and they offer very competitive pricing for early stage startups.’
‘They are very forward thinking, with an ability to think ahead in a commercial fashion and save the client money down the line.’
‘Anthony Littner knows the VC landscape inside out. He is sharp, responsive, laser focused, shrewd and provides a fantastic customer service.’
Key clients
Antler
Kindred Concepts Limited
Kids Know Best Limited
Maekersuite Ltd
Sapling Spirits
Unsigned Group Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised global early stage specialist venture capital firm Antler on a series of follow on investments in relation to a number of their portfolio companies including Evyon and Vamstar Ltd.
- Advised Kindred Concepts Limited (Kindred Concepts) on a further series seed investment round from new and existing investors.
- Advised Maekersuite, a SaaS platform that enables professionals to create and manage video content, on its series seed investment round from Pink Salt Ventures, a female founded, London based pre-seed venture capital fund focussed on investing in female led/founded technology companies.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 3
'An excellent mid-market option', Harbottle & Lewis LLP's commercial litigation team routinely represents the firm's core media, technology and entertainment sector clients in major disputes. It also acts for retail and financial sector clients, as well as HNW individuals from the firm’s renowned private capital department. Commercial litigation leader Sandi Simons 'gets on top of cases' details'; Louis Castellani's caseload covers a range of contentious work; Matthew Leverton is 'a standout litigator'; and Sofie Hoffman acts in contentious trust and probate claims involving dishonesty allegations. In June 2023, Georgina Long and Lizzie Williams were elevated to managing associate level.Practice head(s):
Sandi Simons
Other key lawyers:
Louis Castellani; Matthew Leverton; Sofie Hoffman; Georgina Long; Lizzie Williams; Dennis Brunner
Testimonials
‘Peerless in the media sector, but with all-round commercial nous.’
‘Sandi Simons is a great partner, who is very easy to work with and gets on top of cases’ details.’
‘This team is an excellent mid-market option – lean, adaptable and skilful, and well led by Sandi Simons.’
‘Louis Castellani and Sandi Simons are both very shrewd and experienced operators.’
‘Matthew Leverton is a standout litigator with an impressive caseload.’
‘Sofie Hoffman does an excellent job for clients – more than capable of managing both the mediation and negotiation side of proceedings.‘
‘Always willing to think about different ways to engage with clients, and how to keep costs down and provide deep support.’
‘Lizzie Williams and Georgina Long have very strong litigation instincts and will go far.’
Key clients
Various subsidiaries of NBC Universal
LiveNation & Ticketmaster
Virgin Atlantic Airways
Oxford University Press
IS Prime
ISFE 21
The Al-Sanea Family
BCT
Spanish Steps Holdings
Work highlights
- Assisting IS Prime and ISFE21 with Commercial Court proceedings (as well as playing a global coordination role in respect of related proceedings in the US), in relation to the breach of an exclusivity obligation by Think group.
- Successfully appealed a $16m Commercial Court judgment against Mishal Al-Sanea in the Court of Appeal.
- Acts for BCT, the corporate trustee of the A Eugene Brockman Charitable Trust (the Trust), and its subsidiary Spanish Steps Holding, in claims against the former sole director of the former corporate trustee of the Trust, Evatt Tamine.
Employment > Immigration Tier 3
Harbottle & Lewis LLP is led by Sarah Gogan, who has significant expertise in handling complex and politically sensitive asylum cases concerning high-profile individuals, with a specific interest in the interplay between extradition and asylum. The wider practice reflects this, with capabilities in handling cross-border mandates and handling matters that have issues of human rights and international protection. The team operates within the wider private client and tax practice, with the firm’s numerous HNW clients being able to benefit from the firm’s strong offerings in these areas.Practice head(s):
Sarah Gogan
Testimonials
‘Excellent and resourceful.’
‘Sarah Gogan is a brilliantly innovative and thorough solicitor.’
‘The immigration team at Harbottle & Lewis is excellent. They were bolstered significantly when Sarah Gogan joined from Fladgates two years ago.’
‘Sarah Gogan is exceptional in her field. My firm does not have an immigration offering, so I send all of my immigration work to her. She is incredibly efficient and client friendly. She always makes time to listen to the problem and strategise from the ‘get go’, making it a smooth referral, and no matter how complex the case, she always finds a solution with the client.‘
‘Sarah Gogan is great.’
Work highlights
Industry focus > TMT Tier 3
A 'brilliant team' comprised of 'total experts', Harbottle & Lewis LLP is well regarded by clients for the breadth of its TMT capabilities, spanning digital, data, and AI matters, to name a few areas of focus. Key names to note include practice head Emma Wright, and Agatha Claridge - 'expert, thoughtful and totally calm no matter what comes up.'Practice head(s):
Emma Wright
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Brilliant team – total experts, consistently thoughtful about the commerical/risk issues our business faces. It’s not just legal niceties and abstract risks. Always willing to think about different ways to engage us, how to keep costs down and provide deep support.’
‘Agatha stands out; she gives clients great confidence, she’s expert, thoughtful and totally calm no matter what comes up, including endless changes and moves from EE and our customers. She’s responsive and helpful at all time and works hard!’
‘The team are collaborative, approachable and extremely supportive of our needs. We have a number of different telecoms deals running at any one time. Harbottle consistently give us fast, informative responses when we need them.’
‘We work with Emma Wright and Agatha Claridge. Both are really easy to engage with and focussed on what’s right for our business. We find both Emma and Agi work extremely well as a team and as individuals. They both understand our business and are direct, clear and good value to help shake out what we need to do from a contracting point of view. Quite often this clarity helps the business make decisions quicker, clearly demonstrating how they are adding value to our deals and why we like working with them.’
Work highlights
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 3
Harbottle & Lewis LLP has ‘technically excellent and highly collaborative’ lawyers who work ‘hand in hand with trustees to solve problems’. Clients include wealthy families, private individuals and their family offices as well as multinational companies, start-up businesses, established industry leaders and household names. In addition to advising on the preservation and structuring of private wealth, it works closely with its reputation protection team. Jonathan Burt and Chris Moorcroft co-head the department. Alasdair Wilson is another notable member of the team.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Burt; Chris Moorcroft
Other key lawyers:
Siena Gold; Alasdair Wilson; Morag Ofili; Zoe Camp; Alexa Collis; Marianne Kafena; Gary Ashford; Caroline Rao
Testimonials
‘Having the right person to support trustees in managing highly complex trusts matters to conclusion is a art and Jonathan has an exceptional talent. He is able to assess relevant matters, find solutions and support in effective communication to stakeholders. Jonathan adds value’.
‘They have particular strengths in US/UK cross border work and in work for Middle Eastern clients. They also have a particular niche in handling difficult, knotty issues (which they tackle head on) which are at a pre-dispute stage and in dispute solutions’.
‘Jonathan Burt is exceptionally bright and thorough. In keeping with her name, Siena Gold is sparklingly bright, quick, knowledgeable, commercial, practical, strategic and delightful with it. She has impeccable judgement’.
‘Chris Moorcroft is understated, quietly sharp and incisive. Morag Ofili is a fiesty and robust litigator. Others of particular note include Zoë Camp, Alexa Collis, Marianne Kafena and Gary Ashford,’
‘Siena Gold and Morag Ofili are superb.’
‘The team is very thorough and knowledgeable, on a par with the best. Chris Moorcroft is very collaborative and helpful, and in a proactive way. I have found him very good on ESG principles for trustees.’
‘Solid team with strong leadership (Jonathan Burt) and several up-and-coming leaders in the field (Alasdair Wilson and others).’
‘Generally, an easy to work with firm. High quality without an over the top approach. Both Jonathan Burt and Alasdair Wilson are very strong as is Caroline Rao and others on the team.’
Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 3
Harbottle & Lewis LLP regularly works with corporate occupiers in the hospitality, office and retail sectors. Praised as ‘extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic’, Melanie Benson leads the team and is adept in landlord and tenant mandates, while Leo Marino’s key strengths lie in ancillary leases, as well as business leases and renewals.Practice head(s):
Melanie Benson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The collaboration was excellent. They had very good relationships with other suppliers we worked with and made the experience seamless.’
‘Melanie Benson was our primary contact and is extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic, excellent at communicating.’
Key clients
Gordon Ramsay Restaurants
Arch Light Cinemas Limited
IMO Car Wash Group
Second Place Limited
Rockstar Games UK Limited
Cleanland Limited
Kobalt Music Group Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Gordon Ramsay Restaurants on the acquisition of a large number of premises throughout 2022.
- Acted for IMO Car Wash Group in connection with the management of its extensive portfolio of operating sites across England and Wales.
- Advised Arch Light Cinemas Limited in connection with the acquisition of a premises for a new luxury, state-of-the art cinema in the Battersea Power Station development.
Real estate > Residential property Tier 3
The property group at Harbottle & Lewis LLP acts for wealthy and high profile individuals on sales, purchases (including related mortgage work), as well as leasehold management and enfranchisement matters. Under the leadership of Melanie Benson, the group works closely too with its private capital and tax teams on a range of tax and trust planning matters. Caroline Roberjot is another key figure who specialises in prime and super prime residential property and country estates.Practice head(s):
Melanie Benson
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Cubacub; Caroline Roberjot
Testimonials
‘Timely, helpful, efficient. Have worked with Sarah Cubacub for over a decade. She is a highly professional, reliable, diligent and always a pleasure to deal with’.
‘A remarkable group of people who always strive for commercial solutions, and you have the sense that there are no such things as problems when these talented lawyers put their minds to work.’
‘Sarah Cubacub – Senior Associate. A partner in waiting! A special talent to communicate complicated advice clearly, enabling me to make informed decisions knowledgeably. You feel in safe hands with Sarah’.
‘A dynamic firm with a real focus on high profile clients – reputation team is outstanding’.
‘Mel Benson is lovely and great to work with‘.
Work highlights
- Advised on the purchase of a Grade II listed house in the North of England, which included providing advice on overage issues.
- Advised on the purchase of a property which had been amalgamated from two separate properties into one single freehold title, advising also on trust documentation for the ownership structure.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 3
The ‘experienced and responsive’ team at Harbottle & Lewis LLP is active in the media, entertainment and technology industries, alongside advising clients in the private sector sphere. Its capabilities encompass advising on the protection of TV formats and characters, software and video games, as well as emerging technologies such as AI. The team also manages a variety of trade mark portfolios for its clients. ‘Exceptional’ Shireen Peermohamed helms the practice, with vast experience in handling disputes. Andrew Terry advises on IP and media litigation, including advertising and brand disputes, while Kostyantyn Lobov is prominent in the interactive entertainment sector, acting for clients on a variety of soft IP issues.Practice head(s):
Shireen Peermohamed
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Terry; Kostyantyn Lobov; Sharon Daboul; Daniel Prim
Testimonials
‘An experienced and responsive team focused on practical outcomes.’
‘Sharon Daboul epitomises the firm’s client centric and solutions focused service.’
‘They are organised and add significant value by helping review our IP strategy on an annual basis, and tailoring budgets accordingly.’
‘Kostyantyn Lobov has an outstanding understanding of our environment and business challenges.’
‘Harbottle offers practical advice, bearing in mind our business objectives.’
‘The team has deep knowledge of different industrial areas and understands very well what we want and can always help us fulfil our aim. We are very satisfied with their helpful and excellent services as well as their fast response. They are very flexible to meet our budget needs.’
‘Shireen Peermohamed is an exceptional lawyer and strategist, who always provides her advice through a commercial and practical lens. We appreciate her efforts and help very much.’
‘Kostyantyn Lobov’s advice is thorough, practical, and always directly on point. His friendly and approachable manner helps us work together to find creative solutions.’
Key clients
Atomico
Queen Productions Limited
Nothing Technology Limited
Princess Yachts
Work highlights
- Advise Queen Productions Limited on all aspects of its copyright work including exploitation, management, enforcement and transaction matters.
- Provide Princess Yachts with a full brand protection offering covering trade mark prosecution, domain name monitoring and management, and enforcement.
- Advise Atomico, a renowned venture capital investment fund, particularly in relation to brand protection, both via trade mark oppositions and cancellation actions, and via pre-action litigation advice and correspondence.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 3
Harbottle & Lewis LLP is at the forefront of the media and technology arena, with a niche understanding of sectors such as the video games industry. The practice assists clients with regulatory issues, in addition to transactional matters. Practice head Emma Wright is well-versed in the drafting and negotiation of IT and outsourcing contracts, while Rupam Davé advises on matters concerning AI, the cloud and open source software.Practice head(s):
Emma Wright
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Expertise and consistently thinking about the industry and our relation to it. Always willing to think about different ways to engage us, how to keep costs down and provide deep support.’
‘Emma Wright is the most amazing partner and leader, she is my confidante and adviser any time of the day or week. She’s exceptionally knowledgable and constantly focused on our business and how to keep it safe.’
‘The team are collaborative, approachable and extremely supportive of our needs. Harbottles consistently give us fast, informative responses when we need them.’
‘We work with Emma Wright and Agatha Claridge. Both are really easy to engage with and focussed on what’s right for our business.’
Key clients
TRADINGHUB GROUP LIMITED
GLOBAL PATHOGEN ANALYSIS SERVICE
TAKE-TWO INTERACTIVE
SEGA
KFC (UK)
TPX IMPACT HOLDINGS
EQUAL EXPERTS
PRINCESS YACHTS
PURE IP
MODE SOLUTIONS
Work highlights
- Advising SEGA on technology and connected matters related to its video games business, with advice centred around product development, cloud arrangements and outsourcing.
- Supported KFC on the negotiation of a strategic partnership with the launch of its delivery services via KFC’s website in time for the World Cup.
- Advising Princess Yachts on the contractual and strategic elements of the outsourcing of various parts of their supply chain and manufacturing process.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 3
Harbottle & Lewis LLP's workload regularly covers sports marketing and sponsorship. regulatory disputes, disciplinary proceedings, and reputation management issues - namely advising sports bodies on how to protect their privacy and information rights. Team head Bob Mitchell, regularly working in conjunction with Mike Jones, focuses on the intersection between sports, technology and entertainment. Mitchell is also a key contact for cricketers playing at the national level, who are seeking advice in relation to commercial, employment and disciplinary matters. Alongside Mitchell, Sam Purkiss advises both sponsors and sports entities, while Michael Lister focuses on athlete contract, sponsorship and endorsement arrangements. Dalton Odendaal is a key name to note for work concerning the hosting and staging of major sporting events, including merchandising, ticketing, and ceremonies.Practice head(s):
Bob Mitchell
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘All of our interactions with the Harbottle Lewis team have shown them to be a highly professional and personable team – a pleasure to work with.’
‘They are extremely well credentialed in our space, which always gives us full confidence.’
‘Michael Lister and Sam Purkiss have been excellent to work with, providing considered advice and counsel to us.’
‘Bob Mitchell and Sam Purkiss are superstars.’
‘Harbottle’s team has a deep understanding of the law and its intricacies. They are well-versed in legal precedents and regulations, and can provide expert advice on a wide range of legal matters. Strong analytical skills, showcase a wide range of excellent communicators, work collaboratively, and pool their expertise and knowledge to achieve the best outcomes for their clients. Harbottle’s team are skilled problem solvers, using their legal expertise, analytical skills, and creativity to develop innovative solutions to complex legal issues.’
‘Very quick and professional with their responses. They always take a very collaborative approach and as such we have enjoyed a long-term relationship with them.’
‘Michael Lister is outstanding. He is an expert in the sports field and has helped us with a huge variety of work covering all aspects of sponsorship and management.’
Key clients
Nissan Formula E
Kai Havertz
England Cricket Team
Romelu Lukaku
England Hockey
Stoffel Vandoorne
The Rugby Football Union
Electronic Arts
Emirates
Diageo
Cricket West Indies
Isa Guha
Gumball 3000 Entertainment
Match Fit
Kindred Concepts Limited
Verbal Solutions
Secutix
Sporting Events
Work highlights
- Advised Nissan Formula E on the acquisition by Nissan of the e.dams Formula E racing team and acted as its commercial and corporate counsel throughout the year.
- Advised Kindred Concepts on all key aspects of its launch and operation of their F1 Arcade, a new immersive social entertainment venue concept incorporating Formula 1 racing simulators.
- Advised the England cricketers on employment, disciplinary and commercial arrangements, including in respect of the 2022 T20 World Cup.
Industry focus > Hospitality and leisure Tier 4
Harbottle & Lewis LLP's 'capable and confident' team works with a range of high-profile corporate clients, including airlines, restaurant chains, and major events promoters. Tim Parker and Sandi Simons jointly chair the cross-disciplinary practice.Practice head(s):
Tim Parker; Sandi Simons
Other key lawyers:
Yvonne Gallagher; Emma Wright
Testimonials
‘Able to pull in other partners with other disciplines.’
‘Capable and confident.’
Key clients
Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Ltd
Kindred Concepts Ltd
Eventim Live International GmbH
Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Ltd
Arch Light Cinemas Limited
KFC UK
Virgin Atlantic Airways Limited
Puttshack Ltd
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 4
Harbottle & Lewis LLP’s retail and fashion practice has a multi-disciplinary offering stretching across both contentious and non-contentious matters. Melanie Benson and Sandi Simons jointly lead the team; the former advises luxury brands and designers on the full range of bricks and mortar property requirements, while the latter helms the contentious side, acting on a broad range of commercial disputes for clients in the sector, with particular expertise in disputes concerning commercial agent regulations.Practice head(s):
Sandi Simons; Melanie Benson
Testimonials
‘Responsiveness, sharpness of analysis and great understanding of industry dynamics and commercial implications.’
‘Great collaboration, support and guidance in navigating complex situations.’
Key clients
Harrods Limited
Pets at Home
Victoria Beckham Limited
MOB
De Beers
LLAYRS Ltd
Astrid & Miyu
Humble Foods t/a Bold Bean Co
Wolford
Missoma
Hunter Boots
Diageo
Robinson Webster (Holdings) Limited (t/a Jigsaw)
Virgin Atlantic Airways
Work highlights
- Assisted De Beers with the launch of its Tracr platform, a distributed diamond blockchain which starts at the source and provides tamper-proof source assurance at scale.
- Defending Harrods against two Employment Tribunal claims, which include allegations of race discrimination, disability discrimination and unfair dismissal.
- Advised Mob, a food media platform, on a number of its partnership deals with food and beverage brands, including the Hellmann’s Fridge Night Meals campaign.
Employment > Employers Tier 6
Harbottle & Lewis LLP has a notable niche for employment work in the music, media and performing arts sectors. Acting on disputes and HR issues arising in West End productions is a standout example. The firm is also recommended more broadly for both defence of tribunal claims and non-contentious matters including recruitment and contract preparation. Howard Hymanson and Yvonne Gallagher jointly lead the team. Managing associate Sarah Verrecchia is also key.Practice head(s):
Yvonne Gallagher; Howard Hymanson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘My main relationship is with Howard Hymanson – efficient, approachable and knowledgeable.’
‘Howard Hymanson understands our business and culture. He is an excellent listener and works to help us achieve our goals but also challenges where appropriate and gives robust advice, based on legal knowledge and experience as well as understanding of our business.’
‘Everyone from the Employment Team are extremely knowledgeable, pragmatic and collaborative ensuring that no unnecessary time is billed for. Team members are happy to discuss possible solutions and ideas.’
‘Sarah Verrecchia is an exceptional and efficient lawyer – again she knows her clients extremely well and knows the right questions to ask to get to the heart of a situation quickly.’
‘The practice brings a unique blend of vast experience in the arts and creative industries as well as an extraordinary level of expertise in law. I was unable to find a comparable practice.’
‘High quality of work to address the complex problems we were facing.’
Key clients
Sonia Friedman Productions
Gordon Ramsay Restaurants
TPX Impact Limited
Amazon Studios
ISAM
Zeno Agency Limited
Citywire
LAMDA
Nimax Theatres Ltd
Stardanced hospitality ltd
Work highlights
- Advised Harrods Limited on claims brought against them including allegations of race discrimination, disability discrimination and unfair dismissal.
- Advised the Platinum Jubilee Pageant Limited (PJPL) on the recruitment of all individuals hired to provide services to PJPL (in relation to the Queen’s platinum Jubilee celebrations), including employees and contractors, and prepared the various relevant employment documentation.
- Advised Sonia Friedman Productions on issues arising in relation to a number of West End productions. These include grievances about behaviour of members of cast crew and others involved in productions.
Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 6
With significant industry focus on the marketing, adtech, and digital media sectors, Harbottle & Lewis LLP is regularly instructed on mandates relating to the data aspects of advertising campaigns, data breaches, and compliance issues. The team is jointly led by Anita Bapat, who takes point on data protection and privacy matters, and Emma Wright, who leads on the cybersecurity front. Also in the core team is Sacha Wilson, who is recommended for adtech vendor arrangements and digital marketing projects.Practice head(s):
Anita Bapat; Emma Wright
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A talented, diverse, down to earth, solution focused and knowledgeable team.’
‘Anita Bapat is a pleasure to work with.’
‘Expertise and current knowledge are hugely beneficial. Consistently thoughtful about the risks to our business and how to balance good practice with the realities of our business model. Always has an option and solution no matter what we throw at them. Calm, thoughtful and totally positive to deal with.’
‘Anita Bapat is brilliant; practical, knowledgable and wonderful.’
‘You expect knowledge and expertise what adds value is practical insights and pleasant working manner.’
‘Sacha Wilson and Anita Babat both combine a depth of knowledge of the field with practical application and a realisation of what will work within companies. Yet they do not shy away from explaining the regulatory or legislative reality. They’re also fun to work with.’
Key clients
The Ozone Project
Havas Media Group
Equal Experts
Knight Frank
Shein
De Beers Group
Princess Yachts Limited
SEGA
MyBuilder (part of the HomeAdvisor group)
Work highlights
- Advising the Ozone Project, a cutting-edge digital advertising platform owned by major news publishers, including the Guardian, News UK and the Telegraph, on a number of data privacy matters including advising on policies and vendor contracts from a data privacy perspective.
- Advising SEGA on data protection for the first time on strategically important data protection and technology and projects.
- Assisted De Beers with the launch of their Tracr platform (which is the world’s only distributed diamond blockchain that starts at the source and provides tamper-proof source assurance at scale) as they launch to various participants on the supply chain; assisted with data protection advice in relation to making the Tracr Platform available to consumers.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
Harbottle & Lewis LLP > Firm Profile
Harbottle & Lewis is a leading UK-based law firm focused on the technology, media and entertainment (TME) and private client sectors. Clients range from start-ups to multinational companies, from household names to private individuals and their family offices.
Whilst known for our stand-out expertise in the technology, media and entertainment sectors, our capabilities spread far wider than this advising for some of the most creative, talented and successful people, businesses and corporates, across all of their legal needs. Whether we are talking about wealth, relationships or information, the firm’s private capital expertise enables its lawyers to support clients, as well as to help them successfully develop, grow and protect their assets.
Harbottle & Lewis’ clients benefit from strong legal expertise delivered with industry insight and a commercial approach. Their deep client relationships are built on mutual trust and understanding.
Principal areas of work: Harbottle & Lewis provides a full service across corporate, commercial, employment, family, finance, intellectual property, litigation, private wealth, immigration, property and tax law.
The firm also advises on regulatory matters and the legal issues faced by organisations and individuals in the media spotlight, such as defamation, information protection, privacy and image rights.
Recent work highlights include:
- Advising Universal Pictures on Jurassic World, the first UK production to restart after Covid pandemic restrictions.
- Advising Stormzy on his recent exclusive recording agreement, via his #Merky imprint, with Universal Music – one of the most lucrative artist deals signed in the music industry in 2020.
- Advised the Ozone Project, which is a cutting edge digital advertising platform owned by the major news publishers, including the Guardian, News UK and the Telegraph.
- Advising members of the Royal Household in relation to reputational and privacy issues.
Other recent highlights include:
- Advising Diageo on its new global agency media buying services agreement with the Omnicom Group.
- Advising leading games publisher Take-Two Interactive on its US$1bn bid for Codemasters.
- Acting as trusted advisors to Amazon Studios across its scripted and unscripted slate of projects.
- Advising several sporting organisations including Team England Player Partnership (England Cricketers), Queens Club a number of top footballers and major sponsors on a range of matters.
The firm continues to act for high-net-worth individuals and public figures on all aspects of their personal and financial affairs. The firm has advised a number of clients on sensitive employment matters; on the sale and purchase of multi-million pound residential properties; on effective tax structuring of new and existing businesses for entrepreneurs; and on the administration of significant UK trusts and estates.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing Partner | Charles Leveque | charles.leveque@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Advertising and Marketing | Michael Lister | michael.lister@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Advertising and Marketing | Sacha Wilson | sacha.wilson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Broadcasting | Sacha Wilson | sacha.wilson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Charities and Philanthropy | Colin Howes | colin.howes@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Charities and Philanthropy | David Scott | david.scott@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Commercial Property | Leo Marino | leo.marino@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Corporate and Commercial | Colin Howes | colin.howes@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Corporate Finance | Tim Parker | tim.parker@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Corporate Recovery and Insolvency | Rhys Llewellyn | rhys.llewellyn@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Data Protection | Sacha Wilson | sacha.wilson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Dispute Resolution | Louis Castellani | louis.castellani@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Dispute Resolution | Matthew Leverton | matthew.leverton@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Dispute Resolution | Sandi Simons | sandi.simons@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
E-commerce and New Media | Sacha Wilson | sacha.wilson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Employment | Marian Derham | marian.derham@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Employment | Yvonne Gallagher | yvonne.gallagher@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Employment | Howard Hymanson | howard.hymanson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Family | Catherine Bedford | catherine.bedford@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Family | Mark Irving | mark.irving@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Family | Nicholas Westley | nicholas.westley@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Fashion | Melanie Benson | melanie.benson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Fashion | Sandi Simons | sandi.simons@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Film & Television | Sarah Lazarides | sarah.lazarides@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Immigration | Sarah Gogan | sarah.gogan@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Intellectual Property | Kostyantyn Lobov | kostyantyn.lobov@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Intellectual Property | Shireen Peermohamed | shireen.peermohamed@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Intellectual Property | Andrew Terry | andrew.terry@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Interactive Entertainment | Kostyantyn Lobov | kostyantyn.lobov@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Interactive Entertainment | Mark Phillips | mark.phillips@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Media Finance | Abigail Payne | abigail.payne@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Music | Kieran Jay | kieran.jay@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Personal Injury | Daniel Marks | daniel.marks@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Private Capital | David Scott | david.scott@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Private Wealth | Jonathan Burt | jonathan.burt@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Private Wealth | Zoë Camp | zoe.camp@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Private Wealth | Siena Gold | siena.gold@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Private Wealth | Sofie Hoffman | sofie.hoffman@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Private Wealth | Chris Moorcroft | chris.moorcroft@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Publishing | Shireen Peermohamed | shireen.peermohamed@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Reputation Management | John Kelly | john.kelly@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Reputation Management | Gerrard Tyrrell | gerrard.tyrrell@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Residential Property | Melanie Benson | melanie.benson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Restructuring & Insolvency | Matthew Leverton | matthew.leverton@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Retail | Melanie Benson | melanie.benson@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Sport & Sponsorship | Michael Lister | michael.lister@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Sport & Sponsorship | Bob Mitchell | bob.mitchell@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Tax | Gary Ashford | gary.ashford@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Theater and Performing arts | Neil Adleman | neil.adleman@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Venture Capital | Tony Littner | tony.littner@harbottle.com | +44 (0)20 7667 5000 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Neil Adleman | Neil is Head of the firm’s Theater Group. He advises clients in… | View Profile | |
Peter Armstrong | Peter is a Partner in the firm’s Film & Television Group, specialising… | View Profile | |
Gary Ashford | Gary is a highly experienced International Tax Partner and is an expert… | View Profile | |
Catherine Bedford | Catherine is well-known in the field of family law, leading the Family… | View Profile | |
Melanie Benson | Melanie leads the Property Group and deals with all aspects of real… | View Profile | |
Jonathan Berger | Jonathan is Head of the firm’s Film and TV Group. He acts… | View Profile | |
Jonathan Burt | Jonathan has spent 25 years advising international entrepreneurs and wealth owners. His… | View Profile | |
Zoë Camp | Zoë is a private client lawyer with more than 20 years’ experience.… | View Profile | |
Louis Castellani | Louis is a litigation partner and undertakes a broad range of commercial… | View Profile | |
Marian Derham | Marian is a Partner in the firm’s Employment group acting for employers,… | View Profile | |
Yvonne Gallagher | Yvonne specialises in employment law, acting for employers and senior executives. She… | View Profile | |
Sarah Gogan | Sarah is a private client lawyer with over 20 years’ experience in… | View Profile | |
Siena Gold | Partner advising individuals, family offices, trustees and the financial institutions representing them… | View Profile | |
Lee Greaves | Lee is a Partner in the firm’s Property Group, specialising in all… | View Profile | |
Sofie Hoffman | Sofie Hoffman acts on a number of international contentious trust and probate… | View Profile | |
Colin Howes | Colin is a partner who works in both the Corporate and Commercial… | View Profile | |
Howard Hymanson | Howard acts for both employers and senior executives in relation to contentious… | View Profile | |
Mark Irving | Mark is a Partner within the firm’s Family department. He handles all… | View Profile | |
Kieran Jay | Kieran represents leading artists, song-writers, producers and mixers as well as independent… | View Profile | |
Marianne Kafena | Marianne is a leading tier one private client lawyer with more than… | View Profile | |
John Kelly | John Kelly is recognised as a leading litigator who specialises in the… | View Profile | |
Sarah Lazarides | Sarah is a Partner in the firm’s Film & Television Group, specialising… | View Profile | |
Charles Leveque | Charles is Head of the Corporate Group at Harbottle & Lewis. He… | View Profile | |
Matthew Leverton | Matthew is a Partner with wide-ranging litigation and dispute resolution experience. He… | View Profile | |
Michael Lister | Michael is a Partner in the firm’s Sports Group and head of… | View Profile | |
Tony Littner | Tony is a Corporate Partner and Head of the firm’s Venture Capital… | View Profile | |
Rhys Llewellyn | Rhys is a Corporate partner specialising in private company and business sales… | View Profile | |
Kostyantyn Lobov | Kostyantyn advises on all matters involving intellectual property, dispute resolution, regulatory and… | View Profile | |
Leo Marino | Leo is a Partner in the firm’s Commercial Property group, advising on… | View Profile | |
Daniel Marks | Daniel is a Litigation partner who advises on all aspects of personal… | View Profile | |
Bob Mitchell | Bob has been a dedicated sports lawyer and head of the firm’s… | View Profile | |
Chris Moorcroft | Chris Moorcroft advises individuals and families on the structuring of wealth and… | View Profile | |
Dalton Odendaal | Dalton advises on all aspects of the commercial exploitation of rights in… | View Profile | |
Tim Parker | Tim is a Partner in Corporate Finance, advising both private and public… | View Profile | |
Abigail Payne | Abigail is a Partner in the Film and TV Group providing advice… | View Profile | |
Shireen Peermohamed | Shireen is a Partner advising on intellectual property and publishing. She specialises… | View Profile | |
Mark Phillips | Mark is Partner in the firm’s Corporate & Commercial group, Publishing group,… | View Profile | |
David Scott | David provides personal and corporate tax advice to the full range of… | View Profile | |
Sandi Simons | Sandi has been a dispute resolution specialist for over 25 years. She… | View Profile | |
Andrew Terry | Andrew is an Intellectual Property partner with more than 20 years’ experience… | View Profile | |
Gerrard Tyrrell | Gerrard is Senior partner and head of media and information group; specialising… | View Profile | |
Nicholas Westley | Nicholas is an experienced family barrister. He previously practised at Queen Elizabeth… | View Profile | |
Sacha Wilson | Sacha is a partner working across the firm’s Media & Entertainment and… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 42 Number of UK associates : 34 Number of UK senior associates : 23 Other Lawyers : 6Diversity
We believe a diverse firm is a stronger firm. Diversity allows us to better understand our clients’ needs, provide innovative solutions and conceive alternative approaches to issues. We are committed to ensuring that our workforce is as diverse as our client base, and that our staff feel included and respected.
Grass Roots Impact
During the year, the firm has continued to focus on diversity and inclusivity at graduate level. As well as providing better financial assistance to prospective trainees, we partner with Aspiring Solicitors (AS), an organisation that champions graduates from underrepresented groups (e.g. low income families, first generation undergraduates, BAME, LGBTQ+ and those with special needs and disabilities). Through mentoring, employability assistance and involvement in AS events we are proud to say that this year we have offered more training contracts to AS members than to non-AS members.
We partner with Prime, an organisation committed to improving access to the legal profession through work experience.
Last year we also signed up to The Brokerage’s Generation 2020 Academy, a digital programme that allows us to support disadvantaged students (aged 17 or 18) through mentoring and masterclasses. Ten individuals from across the firm took part and partners Marianne Kafena and Sacha Wilson gave sessions about their careers and how to become a lawyer.
A supportive and inclusive environment
We have a dedicated Diversity and Inclusivity events program, including fundraising activities, circulars and sessions with key speakers. This programme of events complements our skills-based diversity, unconscious bias and interview skills training for those taking part in the recruitment process.
Following a review of the firm’s parental policies, these were recently enhanced. Maternity leave increased from 16 weeks to 22 weeks of full pay; shared parental leave increased from statutory pay to 22 full weeks of full pay; the length of service requirement for paternity pay was removed; and further time could be taken as single days following return to work to adjust to the pressures of parenthood. In addition, the firm introduced a parental mentoring programme for new parents.
We support those who wish to return to work on a part-time basis following maternity leave. A 100% of those requests have been granted to date. The firm also accommodated childcare-related flexible working requests from those who have not recently returned from maternity or paternity leave and requests unrelated to childcare.
Our gender balance at the senior level has improved year on year and this year we increased the number of female partners from 22% to 28% and increased the number of female partners on the Management Executive Committee from just over a third to over a half.
Supporting the Change Makers
We work to use our expertise to support those within our industries who are working to effect change.
Pro Bono Work and Initiatives
In the past year our lawyers have undertaken a number of pro bono initiatives including providing advice on furlough to social care organisations in North Central London during the COVID-19 pandemic and advising the organisation Equal Representation for Actresses 50:50.
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Film & TV
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Media finance
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Video games
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: Smaller Deals, £10m-£100m
- Employment > Senior executives
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Private client > Family
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Music
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Venture capital
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market
- Employment > Immigration
- Industry focus > TMT
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers
- Real estate > Residential property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport