Gowling WLG > Birmingham, England > Firm Profile

Gowling WLG > The Legal 500 Rankings

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 1

Dispensing ‘industry advice that is second to none’, Gowling WLG works with a litany of corporates and PE firms on multi-jurisdictional corporate and commercial matters - particularly in the automotive manufacturing, transport, and consumer goods sectors. The sizeable team is jointly chaired by corporate head Chris Towle and commercial lead David Lowe, who divides his time between London and Birmingham. With more than three decades of experience in the market, corporate partner David Vaughan is a key contact for a diverse range of public and private sector entities, while on the commercial side, Sarah Riding is a highly active practitioner who handles all manner of arrangements for clients in automotive, sport, and retail. Stuart Young and Anurag (Ragi) Singh are similarly noted for their automotive sector expertise; Young chairs the firm’s wider automotive group, while Singh is recommended for his expertise in manufacturing and electric vehicles. Other key figures include Jeremy Millington, a key port of call for the firm’s entrepreneurial clients, and Micky Yang, a real estate-focused corporate partner who joined the team from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in April 2022.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 1

Gowling WLG's commercial litigation capabilities extend across the firm’s offices in Birmingham and London, with the two working closely together to service clients in commercial disputes. Sector expertise of the team lies in automotive, aerospace, government, life sciences, retail, energy, tech, and litigation finance, with the core group working closely with other sector teams to deliver a cohesive approach. Andrew Litchfield is the head of the group, with Andrew Smith, Patrick Arben, and Helen Davenport all key figures in the team.

Employment Tier 1

Headed by Jane Fielding, the team at Gowling WLG advises a vast array of UK and international private and public sector clients on the full gamut of employment, labour and equality matters. It specialises in key sectors such as manufacturing, life sciences, technology and central government. Its contentious expertise covers High Court business protection litigation through to complex discrimination and whistleblowing tribunal claims. Martin Chitty acts for some of the UK’s largest housing associations and retailers - he advises on all areas of employment law while overseeing the team’s work on corporate transactions. Jonathan Chamberlain  has particular expertise in advising on business protection issues.

Employment > Health and safety Tier 1

Gowling WLG has a thriving and ‘active’ practice that is ably led by Andrew Litchfield. Litchfield has long-standing experience of advising on regulatory criminal offences, statutory public inquiries and inquests. He frequently advises on investigations that are conducted by the police, Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency, local authority as well as by the Coroner. The team is immersed in key sectors such as construction, building, quarrying, aerospace and defence and is repeatedly instructed on highly complex matters. Another key member of the talented team is principal associate Michael Hafen - Hafen specialises in the defence of civil/criminal litigation arising from various regulatory breaches.

Employment > Pensions Tier 1

The 'brilliant' Elizabeth Gane  is at the helm at Gowling WLG  and is well-regarded for her work on complex funding issues, mergers and restructurings and benefit change. It has a stellar reputation for its work on diverse issues from advising on major and very large schemes to risk transfers and pensions disputes. Richard Black advises the trustees of some of the largest schemes in the UK. Paul Carberry  is a known name for his work with a broad mix of trustees and employers. Christopher Stiles  is skilled at advising both employers and trustees. Joanne Tibbott  is highly regarded for her work with both trustee and employer clients. Richard Lee  is another leading member of the practice.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1

Gowling WLG’s fields of expertise include corporate banking, funds and debt capital markets work, among other areas and the team has considerable experience in various sectors, such as healthcare, social housing and manufacturing. The team is led by Chris Brierley, who has notable expertise in regard to lending in the low carbon and social housing spaces, while Navin Prabhakar is the firm’s key contact for clearing bank work, as well as offering considerable experience with banking-related M&A, and corporate finance deals. Legal director Angela Rawlins is particularly capable in the social housing finance space.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI Tier 1

A team that is ‘supportive of client needs’, Gowling WLG routinely handles the financing, refinancing, development and expansion of projects situated in the infrastructure and energy markets. Recent areas of work for the team include battery storage, pumped storage, solar and hydrogen-related matters. The ‘unflappable’ practice co-head Stephen Kenny has notable expertise regarding UK government projects, often handling infrastructure and asset matters; Andrew Newberry jointly leads the team and is particularly experienced in energy and utility projects. Gus Wood bolsters the practice with his specialism in UK energy advice, while Elizabeth Williams focuses on defence and security work. Dominic Richardson leads on large-scale Public-Private Partnership (PPP) transactions in the infrastructure sector, whilst James Stanier is well-versed in energy sector legislation, industry codes and incentive scheme matters. Imran Mufti joined from Hogan Lovells International LLP in July 2022.

Public sector > Health Tier 1

Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 1

Consisting of the ‘highest calibre professionals’, Gowling WLG’s real estate practice has key expertise in the development and logistics, energy, investment and residential development sectors. Practice head Christopher Hunt is considerably experienced in advising corporate occupiers across retail, leisure, office, manufacturing and distribution premises. Richard Bate strengthens the practice with his expertise in residential development, while Richard Beckingsale leads the firm’s regeneration team. Helen Emmerson specialises in the energy and utility sector, handling an array of renewables and alternative energy projects, while Matthew Walker heads the firm’s student accommodation team. John Burns has a wealth of experience in large-scale transactions; and legal director Arminder Dhillon is another name of note, joining the team from Pinsent Masons LLP in September 2022.

Real estate > Construction Tier 1

Fielding a sizeable construction team, Gowling WLG is well regarded in the market for its experience across both the public and private sectors and is singled out for its PFI handback expertise and city regeneration procurement. The firm’s contentious and non-contentious teams are led by Michael O’Shea and Richard Green respectively, both advising an impressive roster of developers and contractors. Veteran contentious practitioner Ashley Pigott is noted for his experience across a number of high-value construction disputes. Sarah Dyer regularly advises on major construction and infrastructure disputes, with a focus on the transport and energy sectors, and has been engaged in early Building Safety Act litigation. On the non-contentious side, Ruth Griffin focuses her practice on the public sector, corporate occupiers, supply chain and new asset classes such as data centres and senior living, and is supported by Gemma Whittaker, who made partner in May 2023.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1

‘Leading IP practice’ Gowling WLG’s broad offering covers both transactional and contentious issues, with a predominant emphasis on patents and brands/designs, as well as litigation matters. Its client roster includes businesses in the life sciences, retail and high-tech sectors, to name a few. The practice is spearheaded by the ‘top-notch’ and ‘highly competent’ Kate Swaine, whose expertise involves international brand strategy and the enforcement and management of global IP portfolios. Patrick Duxbury is well regarded for his expertise in the life sciences sector, while Luke Kempton is experienced in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, engaging in various kinds of deals. Both are recommended for being ‘experienced, skilled and committed’. Legal director Michael Carter bolsters the team with strengths in the automotive sector, especially in regard to licensing.

West Midlands > Transport Tier 1

Possessing broad expertise in the transport sector, Gowling WLG‘s practice is particularly strong in the rail space, as well as on interface agreements, logistics and roads matters, to name a few. Joint practice head Giles Clifford specialises in infrastructure, while co-lead Dominic Richardson has notable expertise of rail and rail-related development schemes. Richard Green has particular experience of new station developments, alongside advising on construction and engineering contracts; Toni Weston’s strengths lie in compulsory purchase law issues, alongside more niche expertise regarding road, tunnel, bridge and flyover structures; Sarah Riding advises on supply chain and logistics arrangements, as well as more general commercial issues.

Investment fund formation and management > Listed funds Tier 1

Gowling WLG‘s funds practice covers the full spectrum of closed-ended funds matters, assisting investment managers with structurings, initial public offerings (IPOs) fundraisings, restructurings and fund liquidations. The team also advises on the gamut of regulatory regimes, including the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCAs) new consumer duty, the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD), Markets in Financial Instruments Directive 2014 (MiFID II) and Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) among others. Leading the team is of counsel Nick Heather, who advises both funds and investment banks on IPOs on the London Stock Exchange’s main market and Alternative Investment Market (AIM). John Reed acts for fund managers, banks and sponsors across the lifecycle of funds, from structuring and launch to fundraisings and mergers. Oliver Riley and Kristian Rogers advise banks and investment funds respectively on fundraisings, secondary matters, restructurings and IPOs, while principal associate Kate Seabourne focuses on secondary transactions and IPOs. Senior associate Emily Airton handles both IPOs and fund-related M&A matters.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 2

Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2

Working for clients in a broad range of sectors, Gowling WLG handles insolvency issues for pension trustees, suppliers and UK-wide regulatory bodies. Jasvir Jootla helms the practice, working for numerous stakeholders in distressed situations. Ian Weatherall adds depth to the team with his experience as an insolvency litigator, whilst senior associate Emily Rust‘s strengths lie in corporate recovery, advisory and debt restructuring work.

Real estate > Planning Tier 2

With its planning team located within the broader real estate group, Gowling WLG has ‘good integration of its planning specialism with wider real estate capabilities’, offering a full spectrum of planning law advice. The firm is regarded for its strength in commercial developments and counts major housebuilders among its clients in relation to residential projects. Infrastructure is also a key area for the practice, specifically regarding highways and the rail freight interchange market. The practice is led by Birmingham-based partner Toni Weston, who is described as a ‘great lawyer’ offering ‘clear and reliable planning advice’, and who has experience across regeneration projects, highway schemes and both residential and commercial developments. Associates Cairo Nickolls and Richard Thurling are also key supporting members in the team.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2

Praised by clients for its 'top work and stellar reputation', Gowling WLG's property litigation team routinely works with a range of public and private sector clients - from national housebuilders to local authorities - on cases taken before the various courts, including the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. The Birmingham team is headed up by Paul Barker, a retail, investment, and leisure property specialist 'with deep experience, real tactical insight and a brilliant client manner.' London-based Clive Chalkley is noted for his track record in high-stakes litigation, while Rob Bridgman - 'a really good lawyer and a safe pair of hands’ - is key to the team's housebuilder-focused offering. David Wigy and Caroline Wort are also recommended.  

Real estate > Social housing Tier 2

Advising a range of not-for-profit registered providers, as well as pension funds, REITs and local authorities, Gowling WLG offers broad cross-sector experience in social housing, with a particular focus on major investments. Jacqueline Knox is head of the affordable housing team and specialises in social housing development and non-contentious housing management matters. Sally Farrall spearheads the firm’s affordable housing investment practice. Principal associate Gemma Courtenay has been a key contact on the firm’s social development projects for clients including Sanctuary Housing and Legal & General Affordable Homes. The Birmingham practice often operates on a cross-office basis, working closely with the firm’s London office, in which Richard Beckingsale leads on regeneration, and Dominic Morris advises on senior living.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2

Gowling WLG‘s practice encompasses a range of issues, including cloud computing, e-commerce, outsourcing and systems implementation. In addition, its client base is diverse, from small start-ups to public sector organisations and blue-chip clients, advising in sectors such as retail and financial services. Jocelyn Paulley helms the practice, leading the non-contentious IT team with notable experience in the retail and technology fields. Patrick Arben specialises in the technology sector, leading the firm’s IT and outsourcing dispute resolution practice, while Helen Davenport’s expertise covers technology-related commercial disputes, including those that arise from contracts, software licensing matters and data loss, to name a few.

Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts Tier 2

Known for its commercial awareness and deep understanding of business-risk, Gowling WLG is trusted by clients for the full range of business-critical contractual work, including a litany of outsourcing agreements, distribution and logistic arrangements, and joint ventures. Veterans in the retail, food and drink and automotive sectors, the team has an expanding breadth of work with big-ticket mandates regarding the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, where the team is still engaged with a number of legacy issues, and a number of transport, construction and real estate work. Leading the department is David Lowe, whose diverse commercial focus ensures he is sought-out for legal advice, particularly regarding supply chain concerns and the procurement of goods. Birmingham-based Sarah Riding has acted for Toyota in its procurement of innovative technological services, as well as in a wide range of commercial work for Weetabix as part of its purchase of Lacka Food. Jocelyn Paulley has supported a number of the department’s key mandates.

Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap Tier 2

Gowling WLG’s ECM offering combines a strong funds practice with a separate team that advises on both Main Market and AIM transactions, with the latter having key experience of acting on landmark IPOs and major transactions in the space. Other core specialisms include technology mandates, cross-border matters and work on behalf of mining companies listing on AIM. Practice head Charles Bond has over 30 years of ECM experience across a wide variety of sectors. Jeffrey Elway - a 'very knowledgeable partner with a wealth of experience' - is also recommended.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 2

Gowling WLG‘s ‘highly capable, committed and resourceful team‘ has notable sector expertise in a number of key sectors, including automotive, government, food and beverage, energy, and financial services. Senior litigation partner James Sidwell ‘has excellent judgement‘; Catherine Naylor is a specialist in multi-jurisdictional matters; and the varied caseload of Andrew Smith, who is ‘probably the best all-round litigator around‘, covers contract terminations, economic torts, legal professional privilege, misfeasance, and guarantees/indemnities. At non-partner level, Verity Barker is ‘unfailingly thoughtful and completely unflappable‘, while principal associate Tom Cox represents corporate and private clients in commercial disputes. Andrew Litchfield heads up the department from the firm’s Birmingham office.

Employment > Pensions: dispute resolution Tier 2

Gowling WLG‘s ‘very strong specialist pensions litigation team' is led by the ‘intelligent and astute‘ Ian Gordon, who is especially experienced in handling complex issues involving occupational pension schemes. The 'truly impressive' wider practice's workload includes assisting clients in High Court-level disputes; advising on professional negligence cases, work for which legal director Charlotte Scholes is a key contact; and assisting clients in the resolution of Pensions Ombudsman cases namely regarding claims and disputes with members. Associate Aaron Dunning-Foreman is experienced advising on issues relating to complex data breaches in a pensions context.

Employment > Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 2

Gowling WLG‘s non-contentious pensions practice is headed by Birmingham-based Elizabeth Gane, with support from defined contribution expert Joanne Tibbott, the ‘approachable and knowledgeable' Jason Coates, and pensions risk transfer specialist Paul Feathers. The practice’s client base includes trustees of large schemes and employers, who the team frequently advises on longevity swaps and other general pensions issues. Recent examples of the team's work includes advising on issues relating to GMP equalisation, managing the liabilities of schemes, and advising on defined benefit and defined contribution scheme matters. Associates Sarah Tate and Sara Chambers are also recommended.

Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare Tier 2

Patrick Duxbury and Robert Breedon lead the practice at Gowling WLG, which is noted for its ‘deep experience‘ in licensing matters and pharmaceutical manufacturing issues. The team regularly assists large pharmaceutical companies such as BioNTech and AstraZeneca, and is known for representing care home and senior facility operators and funders. With his academic background in microbiology and genetics, Duxbury handles an array of transactional issues, including commercialisation deals and collaborations, while Breedon advises both public and private sector clients in the healthcare space on outsourcing contracts and commercial projects.

Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 2

Based across Birmingham and London, the retail team at Gowling WLG fields a sizeable team with expertise across the full range of retail, consumer, and trading mandates. Jocelyn Paulley is instructed by start-ups, established brands, and suppliers, and focuses on IT, digital infrastructure, and data protection matters. Intellectual property strategy and litigation mandates are handled by John Coldham. Paulley and Coldham jointly head the practice. Also in the core team are Kate Swaine, who advises on brand and design strategy, and handles trade mark enforcement, and commercial contracts specialist Sarah Riding.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Water Tier 2

Gowling WLG advises on water infrastructure projects in the UK and abroad, acting for water companies, local governments and water regulators, handling financing, development and transactional matters. The practice also provides litigation support, representing clients engaged in international litigation. Leading the water practice is Andrew Newbery, who specialises in transactional matters in the water sector, including project financing, while John Cooper heads the firm’s public law team, advising on regulatory issues affecting water projects. Gareth Baker assists investors seeking to acquire infrastructure assets and Jonathan Brufal, who splits time between the firm’s Dubai and London offices, heads the firm’s international projects practice, with particular experience advising on developments in Africa and the Middle East.

Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 2

With notable strength in industrial, mixed-use, regeneration and retail development schemes, the full-service real estate team at Gowling WLG excels in the energy sector.  The practice is also entrusted by occupiers, property REITS and regeneration authorities with the buying and selling, management and letting of assets. Chris Hunt oversees the real estate department and is proficient in office headquarter acquisitions and disposals, the real estate aspects of corporate M&A and retail expansion programmes. Head of the corporate occupier group Helen Emmerson caters to life science labs, retail, and supermarket leasing mandates, and Felicity Lindsay is well-versed in direct and indirect office investment transactions, as well as office developments and lettings. Kay Desai advises corporate occupiers in the retail and leisure sectors, while Nick Mumby is a key contact for debt-funds, family run developers and international private equity firms. Kate Cunningham advises private and public sector clients on mixed-use and transport-oriented regeneration projects and Dan Gwilliam is seasoned in advising institutional investors.

Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 2

With notable strength in industrial, mixed-use, regeneration and retail development schemes, the full-service real estate team at Gowling WLG excels in the energy sector.  The practice is also entrusted by occupiers, property REITS and regeneration authorities with the buying and selling, management and letting of assets. Chris Hunt oversees the real estate department and is proficient in office headquarter acquisitions and disposals, the real estate aspects of corporate M&A and retail expansion programmes. Head of the corporate occupier group Helen Emmerson caters to life science labs, retail, and supermarket leasing mandates, and Felicity Lindsay is well-versed in direct and indirect office investment transactions, as well as office developments and lettings. Kay Desai advises corporate occupiers in the retail and leisure sectors, while Nick Mumby is a key contact for debt-funds, family run developers and international private equity firms. Kate Cunningham advises private and public sector clients on mixed-use and transport-oriented regeneration projects and Dan Gwilliam is seasoned in advising institutional investors.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious) Tier 2

Recommended for its ‘great commercial acumen’, the Gowling WLG IP practice, which is headed by Kate Swaine, has key strengths that include tech patent litigation, SEP/FRAND litigation and work in the life sciences field, to name a few. Alexandra Brodie is noted for her expertise in the technology sector, leading significant cases in the SEP/FRAND sphere, while Paul Inman has considerable experience in pharma patent infringement and revocation actions. Further strengthening the practice is Patrick Duxbury, who is well-versed in handling transactional matters, and Huw Evans, who routinely handles life sciences and technology related matters. Luke Kempton is particularly active in the biotech and pharma sectors, and Jamie Rowlands routinely represents a multitude of clients in global patent disputes, being especially active in the telecoms space. Matt Hervey and Nick Cunningham are also recommended. Jonathan Ball departed to Norton Rose Fulbright in June 2022.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 2

Acting for clients in the telecoms, advertising and food and drink sectors, among others, Gowling WLG’s ‘fabulous’ full-service IP offering is helmed by Kate Swaine, who is well-versed in international brand strategy and enforcement and routinely acts for household names in the management and enforcement of their portfolios. John Coldham leads the brands and designs team, with his litany of experience encompassing building brands, portfolio management and litigation; Coldham is praised by clients for his strength in litigation. Gordon Harris is experienced in managing designs and brands related cases in high profile disputes. Zoe Pearman, Jasmine Lalli and Charlie Bond are also key contacts in the group.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing Tier 2

Gowling WLG houses a broad practice which assists clients with a diverse range of issues, including digital marketing relating to online choice architecture, fake reviews, and marketing to children. Advertising expert Dan Smith leads the team, regularly advising on a broad range of matters relating to greenwashing, affiliate marketing, and social media. Associate Kate Hawkins advises a number of global corporates in the automotive, retail, and food and drink sectors on influencer marketing, and is particularly adept at defending against complaints made to the ASA; while senior associate Zoe Pearman maintains an IP focused practice, and primarily handles copy clearance and promotional marketing issues.

Real estate > Environment

Real estate > Environment

Insurance > Insurance: corporate and regulatory

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Kent, Surrey, Sussex

Corporate and commercial > EU and competition: trade, WTO anti-dumping and customs Tier 3

The trade and competition team at Gowling WLG has a strong track record across the full range of contentious and non-contentious matters, spanning UK and EU sanctions law, export controls, customs compliance, FTA utilisation, and anti-dumping. Practice head Bernadine Adkins is a respected authority on the impact of Brexit on UK trade law and policy, as well as EU-third country trade deals. David Lowe is highly regarded for national and international supply chain matters, with a recent uptick in the number of cross-border outsourcing mandates, while James Stunt provides expertise in customs compliance and FTA utilisation.

Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 3

With offices across the globe, Gowling WLG specialises in asset recovery and anti-corruption affairs. Its portfolio includes a wide range of domestic and cross boarder cases, and, since opening its Brazil office, the team hassecured work with the high-profile public figure Paulo Maluf (former Mayor of Sao Paulo). Catherine Naylor is distinctly knowledgeable in settling commercial disputes, often with a fraud or trusts aspect. In addition, Andrew Witts is noted for his prowess in international asset tracing and has over 25 years experience in multi-jurisdictional cases, while Jason Freedman is well versed in insolvency litigation and asset recovery investigations.

Employment > Health and safety Tier 3

Andrew Litchfield, described as ‘incredibly knowledgeable and great on strategy’ works from the firm’s Birmingham and London offices and leads the London regulatory crime team at Gowling WLG. The group's client list notably includes Bloor Homes Ltd and Eurotunnel. The team freqently advises defends its clients at Inquests involving on-site deaths or serious injuries, and also advised on the remit of health and safety regulations during the Covid-19 pandemic. Further, the group has experience handling sensitive matters involving vulnerable individuals.

Industry focus > Emerging markets Tier 3

Gowling WLG has a thriving projects and infrastructure practice in London that is 'technically sound, pragmatic and risk aware not risk averse, professional and culturally sensitive'. Head of international projects Jonathan Brufal is 'not only willing, but keen, to get into the detail on projects'. He worked with project finance specialists Andrew Newbery and Imran Mufti to support Saudi construction company Alfanar Company in the development of five Construction Villages procured by the NEOM Company, each with accommodation for up to 10,000 individuals who will ultimately oversee and deliver a new urban area in Tabuk Province. Corporate energy partner Gareth Baker  'provides pragmatic and sound legal advice, taking time to understand the commercials', and impact finance partner Alasdair McKenzie 'has a clear interest and passion for emerging markets work and his advice is sound and pragmatic'. Together they advised InfraCo Africa on a $15m loan to to UK-registered next generation utility company Bboxx for its Africa-focused off-grid solar business. Head of natural resources Charles Bond and standout partner for international arbitration Gordon Bell are also active in emerging markets.

Investment fund formation and management > Real estate funds Tier 3

Sitting within the firm’s wider corporate offering, the real estate funds team at Gowling WLG has recently undergone some structural changes, with the stepping down of former practice head Nick Heather into an advisory role. The practice is now led by Birmingham-based Sharon Ayres, and Micky Yang, who joined the London office from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in April 2022. The national practice advises on both listed and private real estate funds, and offers strong ancillary support in more general real estate matters. Ayres has over 30 years of experience in a wide range of investment funds matters, while Yang brings expertise in investment and development joint ventures. Oliver Riley, another key practitioner, is a key contact for the formation, structuring and reorganising of onshore and offshore closed-ended funds. James Breffit joined the Birmingham office as a legal director, arriving from Greenberg Traurig, LLP in May 2022. All named lawyers are based in London unless noted otherwise.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: M&A and acquisition financing Tier 3

The team at Gowling WLG are able to demonstrate roles on big-ticket deals within the infrastructure space as well as advising on mandates including private equity investments in hydrogen companies and developments. Gareth Baker leverages his experience as one of the founding members of Gowling’s hydrogen group to advise on this work, as well as showing expertise across the board of renewables and sustainable infrastructure work. Dominic Richardson is also recommended for his transactional expertise.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: Project finance and development Tier 3

Gowling WLG is a leading player on infrastructure mandates, advising across the entire lifecycle of  projects, from financing, to project development, procurement, as well as guiding clients through ESG and net zero goals. The team regularly advises on politically sensitive projects and works on matters at the cutting edge of the UK defence and security space. Stephen Kenny and Andrew Newbery co-head the practice, with the former recognised for his work on PPP/PFI matters and serving as a key contact for the Ministry of Defence. Newbery's financing expertise sees him regularly advise on large utility and energy projects. Dominic Richardson's experience includes transport and rail developments, while Elizabeth Williams regularly works alongside Kenny on Ministry of Defence projects. Alexandra Poynter is noted for her supporting role on a wide spectrum of practice mandates. Imran Mufti  joined the group from Hogan Lovells International LLP in July 2022, bringing expertise in capital market transactions, project finance, and knowledge of the Middle Eastern market.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Mining and minerals Tier 3

Praised for its ‘excellent international understanding’, the team at Gowling WLG has a robust track record for complex cross-border work including mining project management, alongside handling start-up transactions, joint-ventures and farm-ins, as well as equity and debt financing work. Mining sector private and public M&A transactions also form a core component of the group’s practice in the space. Practice leader Charles Bond is well-versed advising clients in emerging and established markets on corporate matters. Consultant Andrew Wright  is another key contact.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Power (including electricity, nuclear and renewables) Tier 3

Gowling WLG‘s offering is co-led by a multitude of energy specialists, being ‘results-driven’, corporate-focused Gareth Baker, regulatory experts John Cooper and Birmingham-based Gus Wood, real estate specialist Helen Emmerson, also in Birmingham, Nath Curtis, who has a particular focus on project finance and Jonathan Brufal, who works predominantly on international project development matters from the London and Dubai offices. The team ably handles transactional energy work in these areas, in key M&A and financing matters of high-value, in particular, frequently acting in collaboration with the Dubai team on international work. ‘Leader in the field’ James Stanier is another name to note.

Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 3

With notable strength in industrial, mixed-use, regeneration and retail development schemes, the full-service real estate team at Gowling WLG excels in the energy sector.  The practice is also entrusted by occupiers, property REITS and regeneration authorities with the buying and selling, management and letting of assets. Chris Hunt oversees the real estate department and is proficient in office headquarter acquisitions and disposals, the real estate aspects of corporate M&A and retail expansion programmes. Head of the corporate occupier group Helen Emmerson caters to life science labs, retail, and supermarket leasing mandates, and Felicity Lindsay is well-versed in direct and indirect office investment transactions, as well as office developments and lettings. Kay Desai advises corporate occupiers in the retail and leisure sectors, while Nick Mumby is a key contact for debt-funds, family run developers and international private equity firms. Kate Cunningham advises private and public sector clients on mixed-use and transport-oriented regeneration projects and Dan Gwilliam is seasoned in advising institutional investors.

Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 3

Gowling WLG acts for developers, contractors and institutional clients across various sectors, with particular expertise in PFI hand back, building safety, and international energy projects. The contentious practice is co-led by Gordon Bell, Sue Ryan, and Mike Stewart. Bell, a specialist in international arbitration, concentrates on the construction and energy sectors, advising owners, contractors, and engineers. Ryan lends her expertise in complex, technical construction, and engineering disputes, with experience in building and fire safety disputes. Meanwhile, Stewart offers insight into complex, high-value disputes from major construction and infrastructure projects, particularly in the Middle East. Legal director Mary Lindsay joined the team in late 2023 from Wikborg Rein.

Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 3

Gowling WLG provides comprehensive legal services for developers, contractors, and institutional clients across diverse sectors, specialising in PFI hand back, building safety, and international energy projects. Philip Baker heads the non-contentious side of the practice, using his extensive experience in advising on procurement strategy and project delivery for a wide array of real estate, construction, and engineering clients, including institutions, funders, and end-users. Principal associate Tarfa Ahmad guides developer and institutional investor clients on various construction projects and the construction aspects of investment acquisitions, while principal associate Hannah Daeche complements the team with her expertise in providing transactional advice to a diverse clientele in the real estate, construction, and engineering sectors.

Real estate > Planning Tier 3

Practice head Vicky Fowler, an expert in CPO matters, sits at the helm of Gowling WLG's planning team and advises both public and private clients on the making and implementation of CPOs, particularly for regeneration schemes. The department handles a range of contentious work, including planning appeals, High Court planning litigation, and judicial review work; several members of the team are sought after due to their advocacy in the Planning Court. Ben Stansfield has continued to develop his reputation as an environmental lawyer, spearheading projects involving sustainable infrastructure, biodiversity net gain, and mineral neutrality.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3

Transport > Rail Tier 3

Giles Clifford heads the practice at Gowling WLG, which has a strong specialism in rail station development and station upgrades. Other areas of focus include advising on overstation and over track development. The excellent team also has considerable experience of acting for developers and operators of logistics facilities. In addition, it advises a number of rail clients on general and rail-specific aspects of employment, TUPE and pensions issues. Richard Green and Dominic Richardson are also recommended.

Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m Tier 4

Noted for its significant international footprint, the corporate practice at Gowling WLG fields a cross-disciplinary team of ‘responsive’ lawyers that sit across the life sciences, real estate, healthcare, energy, and advanced engineering sectors. The team is led by and co-head of the firm’s India group, Sunil Kakkad, and the head of the London M&A and private equity team Gareth Baker, a specialist in corporate energy and infrastructure transactions who is described as ‘results driven, pragmatic and a shrewd negotiator.’ The ‘excellent’ Neil Hendron is praised for his ‘practical and pragmatic’ advice in high-value private company M&A transactions – particularly in the healthcare and life sciences industries. European PE head Ian Piggin regularly advises biotech companies, life sciences investors and mid-market private equity firms. Other key lawyers include Hugh Maule and Jeffrey Elway.

Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £250m) Tier 4

Working across its various national offices, Gowling WLG works with a mix of sponsors, investors, and growth capital funds on a number of lower mid-market transactions. Practice chair Ian Piggin‘s recent engagements include sponsor-side acquisitions and cross-border deals for VC funds. Piggin heads up the healthcare and life sciences team alongside Neil Hendron, whose capabilities also extend to the financial services sector. Global energy co-chair Gareth Baker handles a host of domestic and international matters, acting for renewable dedicated investment funds, among other clients. Listed funds specialist Kris Rogers is also recommended.

Industry focus > TMT Tier 4

Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 4

Catherine Naylor heads the offering at Gowling WLG in London. The team also draws on the firm’s other private wealth practitioners in Singapore and Canada, primarily. It focuses on all aspects of trust litigation which often necessitates managing and coordinating complex cross-border disputes. The practice remains busy advising on claims by and against professional trustees and fiduciaries. James Sidwell and Jason Freedman are other names to note.

Real estate > Property finance Tier 4

Gowling WLG‘s client roster consists of UK clearing banks, debt funds, alternative lenders, and REITs. The practice is consistently active on development projects in the private rented sector, build to rent, student accommodation, data centres and hotels. Team lead Nick Turner is recommended for his expertise in restructuring distressed real estate finance deals and distressed assets, inter-creditor arrangements. Turner also frequently represents German banks on their investments.

Real estate > Social housing: finance Tier 4

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech Tier 4

Cryptoasset regulatory advice, payment services issues, and corporate transactional work stand out as recent areas of activity for Gowling WLG, while commercial contracts, tax and IP are additional areas of strength for the practice. Technology specialist David Brennan helms the firm’s fintech offering; his corporate expertise extends to advice on public takeovers and private acquisitions. Kristian Rogers is noted for his capabilities in capital raisings and fund restructurings. Commercial litigators Helen Davenport and Sean Adams extend the unit’s contentious expertise, while Sushil Kuner is praised for her ‘wealth of knowledge concerning fintech and FCA regulatory work’. Ian Mason left the firm in January 2023.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 4

The IT practice at Gowling WLG is adept at handling a range of projects, from cloud computing, e-commerce and data protection to privacy, freedom of information and outsourcing matters. The team is also experienced in dispute resolution, acting for start-ups, public sector organisations, blue chip and FTSE 100 clients. Practice head Jocelyn Paulley assists customers and suppliers, while Patrick Arben handles commercial litigation cases. David Brennan, who acts for tech start-ups through to established quoted companies, is another key contact in the group.

Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 5

James Sidwell brings an ‘incomparable work ethic‘ to his role as practice head at Gowling WLG. The firm runs the gamut of contentious regulatory matters, and is noted for its expertise in more niche areas, including FCA and PRA authorisation, supervision and enforcement, and mandates with a nexus to fintech, including cryptocurrency and blockchain developments.

Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 5

Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 5

Gowling WLG’s banking litigation expertise extends to regulatory, structure finance, restructuring, and fraud, acting on many high-profile regulatory matters linked to Libor and FX. The team notably acts for JP Morgan on many of its banking disputes. James Sidwell is the head of the practice. He has experience across all aspects of corporate and financial services litigation, including fraud and asset tracing.  Further noted practitioners include Catherine Naylor and Sean Adams.

Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 6

Under the leadership of Bernardine Adkins, a seasoned practitioner with over 25 years of EU, trade and competition law experience, Gowling WLG‘s team is adept at assisting clients with all facets of UK and EU competition law, with a particular strength in state aid work. Leveraging the firm’s accomplished IP team, the practice combines its knowledge to provide clients with comprehensive guidance on the interplay between IP and competition law. Samuel Beighton  is noted for his expertise advising on a broad range of competition law instructions, including merger control, dawn raids and investigations.

Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 6

Praised for its ‘helpful, targeted advice and pragmatic approach’, key contacts in Gowling WLG’s financial services regulatory practice include principal associates Kam Dhillon and Sushil Kuner, following the departure of Ian Mason to Walkers in December 2022. Dhillon handles UK and EU financial services regulatory matters, while Kuner has demonstrable experience in the fintech arena.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 6

‘Able to handle large and complex cross-border disputes‘, Gowling WLG‘s international arbitration team has significant expertise in technology, life sciences, and construction and engineering arbitrations. Gordon Bell's 'years of experience shine through'; Mike Stewart is an expert in construction and infrastructure project-related claims; and Birmingham-based Tom Price is ‘a joy to work with‘. Principal associate Patrick Fox focuses on complex commercial disputes in the energy and construction sectors, while senior associate Dominic Sinnott is 'an up-and-coming lawyer'.

Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport