Stephen Goldie > Brodies LLP > Edinburgh, Scotland > Lawyer Profile

In May 2021, Brodies LLP increased its bench strength by adding Gareth Hale (previously at Dentons), who has recently been particularly active for landlords and housebuilders. This complements the team’s broad client base, which also includes public sector bodies and commercial tenants. Like team head Stephen Goldie, his commercial litigation expertise goes beyond real estate, making Matthew Farrell the main contact for core property litigation; Farrell is best known for his expertise in dilapidations, business rates and service charge disputes. The team also provides assistance with arbitration and mediation proceedings and has been able to grow its telecoms sector expertise as evidenced by new instructions in this field.

Based out of Edinburgh, Brodies LLP‘s litigation practice has strength in depth, fielding a large team which has been bolstered by several internal promotions and lateral hires including Gareth Hale from Dentons and Craig Watt who was elevated to the partnership. The team stands out for its expertise in the energy, construction and IT sectors with practice head Iain Rutherford being the contact for IP/IT mandates. Co-head Stephen Goldie acts on high-value contractual disputes and is supported by a strong bench of partners including experienced litigator Jared Oyston who has appeared before the High Court and Supreme Court; he is recommended for energy- and insolvency-related disputes. Highlighted for its ‘measured and sound advice’, the group also has expertise in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) work, handling both domestic and international mediation. In Aberdeen, Kenneth MacDonald leads the firm-wide international arbitration practice and has a strong track record in handling complex disputes for corporates. Senior associate Monica Connolly specialises in IP and tech disputes. Elsewhere, Tony Jones KC and Joyce Cullen continue to be preeminent practitioners.

The debt recovery practice at Brodies LLP exhibits ‘exceptional legal knowledge’ and has a track record acting in advising on high-value banking litigation and handling motor finance matters, complemented by its volume debt recovery group. Jointly managed by seasoned litigators Iain Rutherford, Stephen Goldie and managing associate Marianne Griffin, the team has experience of acting for banks, financial services sector clients, utility companies and motor finance companies across the full gamut of matters. Frank Johnstone specialises in consumer credit matters. At the associate level, Craig Donnelly is active in contentious matters, particularly contract disputes.