Euan Lawson > Simkins LLP > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Media and entertainment specialist firm Simkins LLP fields a media finance practice which works closely with the film and TV team to advise on the financing of film and TV productions. Core areas of activity for the department include equity investments, and loan, security and inter-party financing arrangements in the media sector. Practice head Jonathan Blair excels in audiovisual matters, advising both producers and financiers on film and TV financings. Euan Lawson handles a mix of corporate and commercial matters, while corporate specialist Giao Pacey is a name to note for investors, producers, studios and talent. Ben Gisbey focuses on music-related transactions.

Encompassing theatre and live events work, the practice at Simkins LLP is routinely instructed by major music clients, international event organisations and live production venues. The team handles various  commercial agreements – from performer contracts to venue leasing – and litigation matters related to cancelled performances, tour disputes or contractual breaches. Publishing is another key pillar of the team, which advises on e-publication and digital distribution issues, as well as traditional publishing contracts and sales. Music specialist Euan Lawson focuses on live events and theatre-related issues. James Harman assists a number of literary agent clients on transactions and agreements.

The commercial advertising practice at Simkins LLP assists global brands, multinational companies and advertising agencies with media buying, agency appointments, brand management and marketing mandates. Particularly well-versed in compliance issues related to promotional campaigns, the team also advises on talent and influencer marketing agreements. Commercial expert Euan Lawson and advertising specialist Caroline Copeland, whose broad expertise covers sponsorships, licensing, brand deals and other advertising and marketing agreements, jointly manage the practice. Ed Baden-Powell handles IP as well as advertising and clearance matters, while Ed Weidman advises talent on advertising issues.

‘Unquestionably one of the leading specialist teams in this sector‘, the commercial music practice at Simkins LLP stands out for its impressive track record in catalogue sales and acquisitions work. The firm also acts for various notable artists, producers and emerging talent in recording and publishing deals, as well as touring and rights agreements. The group has recently expanded its live music offering by additionality advising on tech-driven live events. Practice head Euan Lawson acts for major labels and several acclaimed artists in contractual and commercial matters. Ed Baden-Powell focuses on commercial contracts and IP work, while copyright and contract disputes are key areas of expertise for Paddy Gardiner and Tom Iverson. Nick Eziefula advises artists, labels and publishers on commercial and IP matters. Ed Weidman is well versed in the drafting and negotiation of commercial contracts, while Ben Gisbey and Stuart Smith specialise in corporate and transactional issues.