James Towler > McCormicks > Harrogate, England > Lawyer Profile

McCormicks is well regarded for its expertise in the sports sector, with the team acting for clients such as the Premier League, Leeds United FC and Norwich City FC. Beyond that, it is also active in the hospitality and leisure sectors, as well as acting for owner-managed companies. The team is co-headed by Peter McCormick and James Towler from Harrogate.

Standing out for the profile of Harrogate-based founding partner Peter McCormick, the sports practice at McCormicks continues to provide top-tier advice to its footballing clients, while also assisting a growing number of shooting groups, rugby clubs and cycling associations. McCormick, who has previously served as chairman of the Premier League and the Football Association, continues to actively advise on the regulatory and contracting aspects of major sports club buyouts and takeovers. He co-leads the practice alongside James Towler, a key contact for corporate and commercial matters, and sports litigation expert David Birks, who joined from Newtons Solicitors Limited in November 2022. Philip Edmondson departed the group in 2022 to Ward Hadaway LLP.

Harrogate-based McCormicks leverages the experience and standing of Peter McCormick, chairman of the legal advisory group of the Premier League, to advise the elite league on a range of matters, including owners’ and directors’ tests during club takeovers and acquisitions, third party ownership disputes, and the stewardship and policing of stadiums. Sports team head James Towler is also a key contact for the Premier League, taking on a number of corporate and commercial instructions, including sponsorship, media rights and data protection agreements. David Birks, head of the commercial disputes and sports litigation team, is a further name to note.