Brodies LLP > Aberdeen, Scotland > Firm Profile
Brodies LLP Offices

Brodies House
31-33 Union Grove
ABERDEEN
AB10 6SD
Scotland
Brodies LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 1
With offices in key business hubs including Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, the corporate and commercial team at Brodies LLP offers expertise across the full range of corporate matters, advising the most prominent private and public companies and high-net-worth individuals in the market. Noted for a particular strength in cross-border M&A, the team is led by the highly experienced Neil BurgessPractice head(s):
Neil Burgess
Other key lawyers:
Shuna Stirling; William McIntosh; David Lightbody; Paul Breen; Derek Stroud; Alasdair Dunn; Eric Galbraith
Testimonials
‘Eric Galbraith is excellent in the negotiation process – his team is always very responsive and drafting spot on from discussions.’
‘Neil Burgess is a real details person. He is always composed and calm, even amidst the heat of tense corporate deal discussions. He misses nothing, and his high level of intellect is clear when dealing with complex legal or contractual points.’
‘Paul Breen is a great performer – he’s clever, organised and provides clients with confidence that he is covering all bases. He also helps steer clients around the points that might be worth conceding to help focus on the key issues of contention, which helps to get deals over the line.’
‘We worked closely with Derek Stroud and Alasdair Dunn on a complex and intense sales process. They were excellent to work with, provided clear and concise guidance and worked incredibly hard under tight deadlines to get our transaction over the line.’
‘A strong team that provides responsive and clear advice together with a quick understanding of the challenges the client has.’
‘The team are very thorough and have a great eye for detail.’
‘Brodies have a depth of resource, with expert advisors with sector-specific market, commercial and legal expertise across the partner level, ably supported by proactive associates with strong work ethics and good, polished client relationship and organisational skills.’
‘David Lightbody is the epitome of calm, cool and collected in all dealings and matters of legal advice, regardless of the intensity of external pressures or commercial consequences of any given situation.’
Key clients
Accel-KKR
Scottish Enterprise
Aggreko
Edrington
ACS Clothing Limited
Last Mile Infrastructure Group
Scottish Equity Partners
Old College Capital
Flag Communication Limited
Katjes Greenfood
Borderlink Broadband
Mirador Analytics
Orbital Marine Power
Rewards4 Group
DC Thomson
Scottish National Investment Bank
Exscientia Limited
AGS Airports Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Katjes Greenfood on its acquisition of Genius Foods, the UK market leader in gluten-free ready-to-eat bakery products.
- Advised Accel-KKR in a significant capital investment acquiring the entire share capital of Singletrack Systems Limited, the capital markets client engagement and analytics expert.
- Advised Orbital Marine Power on its public offer and issue of secured debentures. Orbital is a renewable energy company focussed on the development and global deployment of the world’s most powerful tidal turbine. The fundraise was supported by a £4m facility provided by the Scottish National Investment Bank.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland Tier 1
Offering a market-leading corporate and commercial presence in Aberdeen, Brodies LLP advises private and public companies and institutions, high-net-worth individuals and third sector entities across a broad range of sectors including energy, technology, renewables and healthcare. Neil BurgessPractice head(s):
Neil Burgess
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team have a real compelling drive to balance the risks of the contracts while bringing a strong foothold for the client, which is shown through many years of experience in dealing with these matters.’
‘Brodies is a modern law firm offering a collaborative practice with professionals from other industries.’
‘Martin Ewan offers a high level of creativity in dealing with the dynamics of the parties.’
‘Martin Ewan takes the time to understand not only the issues at hand, but what may play out, and offers sage advice as part of the solution.’
‘Brodies work is excellent and of the highest standard. They take the time to walk clients through Share Purchase Agreements (SPA), ensuring that they understand every aspect.’
‘The approachable human-face of law is really appreciated. They “get” business.’
‘Brodies offers expertise in the energy industry have made them an invaluable asset for clients.’
‘Tom Boulton-Jones is an excellent partner, with strong negotiating skills and always calm under pressure.’
Key clients
Abu-Dhabi National Oil Company
Three60 Energy Limited
Indaver
Swire Energy Services Limited
Chardon Hotel Group
Romar International
Palisade Real Assets
Balhousie Care Group
John Lawrie Tubulars
Aratellus Group
Ramco Group
ThinkAnalytics Limited
Offshore Energies UK
Maxwell Oil Tools Limited
Rockrose Energy Limited
Aquatera Group Limited
Onboard Global Solutions Limited
Clear Solutions Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in relation to the corporate structuring and governance of its subsidiary and joint venture company interests.
- Advised Three60 Energy Group on the acquisition of Fraser Energy Ventures Limited and BJRE (Holdings) Limited.
- Acted for the shareholder of Balhousie Care Group (owner and operator of 26 care facilities across Scotland) on the sale to Acalis Care.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 1
Brodies LLP is a pre-eminent firm in the Scottish corporate tax market, fielding a deep bench of tax specialists across a broad range of areas including funds, real estate transactions, and other bespoke tax arrangements such as employee share incentives. The team is led from Edinburgh by Isobel D’InvernoPractice head(s):
Isobel D’Inverno
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Expert knowledge and resources to provide answers to complex questions.’
‘Karen Davidson displays the requisite technical expertise as well as a strong sense of commercial awareness.’
‘Great team with lots of experience and a commercial outlook.’
‘Pragmatic and commercially focused advice, targeted at maximising value and managing risk.’
‘Karen Davidson draws on her broad experience from all industries to tailor her advice to a specific business context or deal.’
‘Brodies’ work is of an extremely high standard. Obviously, they advise on the legal aspects of any particular matter, but they are also extremely commercial in their approach and take time to understand a business, their challenges and think of ways to overcome them (from a legal and tax perspective).’
‘With Brodies breadth of services, they are able to provide a comprehensive service to a company covering contract, employment and company law.’
‘Karen Davidson is a key point of contact for all taxation matters, covering corporation tax and employee share plans. Karen always provides an excellent service.’
Key clients
Accel-KKR
TPG Europe LLP
BAE Pension Trustees
Northcare Group
Gresham House
Custodian REIT
Seafood Connection
RockRose Energy
Virgin Hotels
Wheatley Group
Work highlights
- Acting for the shareholders of Balhousie Holdings Limited on the tax aspects of its sale to AcalisCare.
- Advised Custodian REIT plc on the tax aspects of the hive up of the business and assets of Drum Income Plus REIT plc (DRIP REIT).
- Advising Gresham House on the UK and cross-border tax aspects of the formation of an Irish Forestry Fund.
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 1
Brodies LLP has established one of the most comprehensive EU and competition services in Scotland, regularly advising major clients across the gamut of areas including antitrust compliance and investigations, merger control, state aid and subsidy control, public procurement, and pre- and post-Brexit EU law. The team is highly active across a number of key sectors including transport and infrastructure, food and drink, technology, and energy, with practice head Charles Livingstone being renowned for his expertise advising private and public sector clients in both contentious and non-contentious situations. Christine O’Neill KC brings significant competition litigation experience, having acted on a number of transport infrastructure cases, while Roger CottonPractice head(s):
Charles Livingstone
Other key lawyers:
Christine O’Neill KC; Roger Cotton; Jamie Dunne
Testimonials
‘The responsiveness, level of expertise (on public procurement matters, including public tender disputes) and understanding of clients’ needs and priorities are incredible.’
‘The team is very responsive. Meetings are arranged at short notice and advice given very speedily.’
‘The solicitors understand the issues quickly, are very knowledgeable and provide clear advice.’
‘The individuals in the team are very approachable.’
‘Jamie Dunn consistently provides very high-quality advice while demonstrating a very thorough knowledge of subsidy rules.’
Charles Livingstone is calm and authoritative on all aspects of competition law.
‘There is a large team (for the Scottish market) so there is considerable breadth of experience depending on the issue at hand.’
Key clients
The Scotch Whisky Association
The Scottish Government
North Lanarkshire Council
AGS Airports Limited
Scottish Enterprise
Stornoway Port Authority
Clyde Gateway Developments Limited
City of Edinburgh Council
Borderlink Broadband Limited
Highlands & Islands Enterprise
Work highlights
- Advised AGS Airports Limited on the refresh and roll-out of its competition compliance policy, including delivering training sessions to all relevant staff across Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton Airports.
- Supported North Lanarkshire Council with a complete refresh of its procurement and contracting template documentation.
- Supported Clyde Gateway Developments Limited with the procurement of an innovative 5G ambient heat network in a regeneration area, the Scottish element of a research project known as D2 Grids co-funded by Interreg North West Europe.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Crime: fraud Tier 1
Brodies LLP has established a pre-eminent fraud and financial crime practice in Scotland, consistently displaying a ‘deep understanding’ of not only traditional risks arising from fraud, bribery and corruption, but also emerging threats facing clients such as cyber-attacks, IP theft, and tactical disruption to businesses. Paul Marshall is an ‘outstanding lawyer’ and leads the team from Edinburgh, regularly sought after by boardroom executives for his extensive investigation and advocacy skills. The offering was considerably bolstered by the addition of Clare BonePractice head(s):
Paul Marshall
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very pragmatic, responsive and client-oriented team.’
‘Brodies’ team have a deep understanding of their sector / areas of competence. Brodies fully appreciate the impact these issues can have on a business and individuals. They understand the end game and ensure all activity is closely aligned to contributing toward a positive result.’
‘Paul Marshall and his team ensure that justice prevails.’
‘Paul Marshall is an outstanding lawyer and human being.’
‘Ramsay Hall shows empathy, patience and most importantly, makes clients feel like they have the best team in their corner.’
‘Paul Marshall and Lisa Kinroy are happy to take the lead and ownership of a complex, high publicity matter. Their knowledge, experience and connections are formidable.’
‘Very strong on knowledge; approachability; dependability; service; and good at understanding context.’
‘Overall, they are really good to deal with.’
Work highlights
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation Tier 1
Housing a sizeable commercial litigation practice, Brodies LLP ‘delivers sound, balanced and thoughtful advice’ across a wide range of domestic and cross-border disputes in the financial services, energy, food and beverages, construction, IT and automotive sectors. Praised for his ‘strong leadership and strategic nous’, Iain Rutherford focuses on intellectual property, IT and energy litigation, and jointly leads the team with Stephen GoldiePractice head(s):
Stephen Goldie; Iain Rutherford
Other key lawyers:
Joyce Cullen; Antony Jones KC; Craig Watt; Kenneth MacDonald; Jared Oyston; Monica Connolly; Fiona Chute; Amina Jamil; Malcolm Gunnyeon; Clare Bone
Testimonials
‘Iain Rutherford has an excellent strategic mind and is unflappable under pressure. Definitely someone to have on your team. Associate Amina Jamil is energetic, tireless and a strong analyst of legal issues.’
‘Joyce Cullen is outstanding. She was ably assisted by senior associate Fiona Chute.’
‘The entire team worked well with our business and was flexible when we needed advice. At times, we were speaking to them as much as anyone in our own business.’
‘The people involved had a great knowledge and personal manner, which was helpful in periods where emotions were running high. Their proactive and professional approach as well as ability to quickly build relationships were key factors that made the experience positive.’
‘Good knowledge of international maritime law.’
‘Strong leadership and strategic nous from Iain Rutherford.’
‘Great team with intimate knowledge of the Scottish business and economic environment, able to take into consideration many different options, and to focus on ultimate goals, approaching the matters in a very structured way.’
‘They are highly competent, and the team delivers sound, balanced and thoughtful advice. Iain Rutherford is exceptional in his field.’
Key clients
Aggreko Plc
Whyte and MacKay
Trident Trust
CGI IT UK Limited
Edgen Murray Europe Limited
FIM Forest Funds General Partner Ltd
PRA Group (UK) Limited
Pulsant Limited
Royal & Sun Alliance
AJ Capital Partners LLC
Work highlights
- Advised Tomatin Distillery on a variety of IP issues, including copyright, patent and trade mark disputes.
- Acting for Park’s of Hamilton in relation to an ongoing dispute with the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) and the Scottish Football Association (SFA) arising from the announcement of a new title sponsor for the league, which involved various obligations being imposed upon member clubs.
Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 1
Fielding a sizeable debt and asset recovery team, which is 'always highly dependable and easy to deal with', Brodies LLP handles the full spectrum of debt recovery work for a client base of banks, debt purchasers, utility providers, lawyers and other debt collection agencies. The group is particularly well regarded for its work in the vehicle finance recovery space, where is advises motor retailers and motor finance companies. Iain Rutherford, Stephen GoldiePractice head(s):
Iain Rutherford; Stephen Goldie; Marianne Griffin
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘We can always rely on Brodies to provide expert guidance and excellent results. The debt recovery team is always highly dependable and easy to deal with, providing proactive support and keeping everything simple and free of confusing legal terminology.’
‘Frank Johnson has been a pleasure to deal with over the years, and Marianne Griffin is highly valued for her knowledge and approachability. Both are always happy to make themselves available to help, and are quick to respond to any query we may have.’
‘Slick and professional team always at hand to help with queries.’
‘We have found individuals highly knowledgeable and professional in all dealings.’
‘Brodies clearly recruit, develop and encourage their team to be commercial and proactive in their approach. They manage situations to obviously ensure they meet their client’s needs, rather than just service instructions. This differs from most practices.’
Key clients
Scottish Water Business Stream Limited t/a Business Stream
PRA Group (UK) Ltd
Toyota Financial Services (UK) Plc
FCA Automotive Services UK Limited
MotoNovo Finance
Work highlights
- Appointment to act for a business lender dedicated to providing UK SME’s with flexible finance in relation to its recovery and insolvency work relative to higher value business loans and personal guarantees.
- Instructed to advise on a title dispute relating to the supply by a reputable motor dealership of a prestige motor vehicle.
Employment Tier 1
Brodies LLP‘s reputation is bolstered by its prominent position in the energy sector, largely thanks to its strong presence in Aberdeen, and its expertise in the financial services, public and transportation industries. Seasoned litigator Tony HaddenPractice head(s):
Tony Hadden
Other key lawyers:
Joan Cradden; Lynne Marr; Brian Campbell; Elaine McIlroy; Fiona Herrell
Testimonials
‘Their advice is always practical, and they are also very responsive.’
‘Tony Hadden: Highly experienced, commercial, understands our business and risk appetites. Feels like part of the team, not an external adviser – a rare thing.’
‘Fiona Herrell is easy to deal with and always has a calm and professional demeanor. She also really takes time to listen and understand scenarios, and I like the way Fiona has developed our relationship and has invested time to understand our company, our culture and our challenges.’
‘The employment law team is extremely knowledgeable and really supports their clients. They provide amazing support services.’
‘I could not be more impressed with their response times, their flexibility and their support, which allowed us to reach a very satisfactory solution for all parties. Would highly recommend them.’
‘I worked with Joan Cradden, whose representation was skilled, compassionate and showed absolute commitment.’
‘Lynne Marr gets to grips with the issues very quickly and understands the complexities of our business.’
‘Brian Campbell: Knowledgeable, practical, accessible, intuitive, precise; the main reasons we continue to put all of our trust in Brodies in this area.’
Key clients
Bristow Helicopters Limited
National Westminster Bank PLC
Ponticelli UK Limited
Artemis Investment Management LLP
Capricorn Energy PLC
City of Edinburgh Council
M&G plc
Computershare Investor Services PLC
Ooni Limited
Work highlights
- Assisted Capricorn Energy PLC with the design and implementation of a voluntary redundancy programme, and with other issues arising from the shareholder dispute over their future strategic direction.
- Advised M&G plc on a grievance involving allegations of race discrimination.
- Assisted City of Edinburgh Council with an employment investigation and delivered comprehensive training to a new investigations team established in the council.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 1
With the Glasgow-based Clare Bone, who joined the firm from BTO Solicitors LLP in September 2022, at the helm, Brodies LLP is a regular fixture on police, HSE and Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) investigations and related enforcement actions, prosecutions and fatal accident inquiries. This expertise enables the group to assist clients from an equally broad spectrum of industries, including construction, oil and gas, shipping and marine, and transport, among others. The Aberdeen-based Malcolm Gunnyeon, who joined from Dentons in October 2022, complements the team's sector expertise with experience in the energy, and food and drink sectors. Other recommended individuals include corporate crime and investigations specialist Paul Marshall and senior associate Victoria Anderson, who is experienced in high-profile fatal incidents.
Practice head(s):
Clare Bone
Other key lawyers:
Malcolm Gunnyeon; Paul Marshall; Laura McMillan; Victoria Anderson; Ramsay Hall
Testimonials
‘Victoria Anderson is a formidable health and safety lawyer. She is bright, knowledgeable and always committed to getting the best results for her clients, leaving no stones unturned.’
‘Brodies is always on hand to take calls, answer queries and assist with anything that is needed, and conversely they are always strong in dialogue.’
‘I have to give special praise to Victoria Anderson for her outstanding assistance and knowledge.’
‘Clare Bone and Victoria Anderson are experienced and highly regarded practitioners in the health and safety field.’
‘The team is responsive, hands-on and provides well considered practical advice.’
‘Paul Marshall is an expert in his field and guided us through an urgent issue.’
‘Paul Marshall and Ramsay Hall both have a sound, thorough and robust knowledge in all matters concerning health and safety law.’
‘Their strength and depth of knowledge and experience is second to none.’
Key clients
Network Rail Infrastructure Ltd
Cameron House Resort (Loch Lomond) Ltd
INEOS Chemicals Grangemouth Ltd
Loch Awe Boats
Pentland Ferries
Work highlights
- Acting for QA Fish in a fatal accident prosecution, securing a plea to a reduced charge under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
- Representing a UK hotel owner in a prosecution following a fire at a 5-star luxury hotel that led to the death of two guests.
- Representing a ferry operator following the grounding of its vessel, providing response and on-site assistance with MAIB and MCA investigations.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1
Brodies LLP’s preeminence in the Scottish banking sector is reflected in the calibre of transactions it handles across key economic sectors, including food and drink, healthcare, energy and marine, with a growing dominance in renewables and green financing. Bringing over 25 years of experience is team head Bruce StephenPractice head(s):
Bruce Stephen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Strong cross-functional teams of experts to deliver on complex transactions. They are knowledgeable, balance risks and commercial requirements, responsive and adaptable to emerging issues.’
‘Good, professional service at all times.’
‘Strong depth and knowledge across the business, giving clients access to detailed advice and guidance as the business evolves.’
‘Neal Richardson is always quick to offer help and is proactive in sharing market information and changes in law to help shape strategy.’
‘Brodie’s banking and finance team are able to hit the ground running and coordinate the various multi-jurisdictional issues required to complete a transaction.’
‘Advice is extremely practical and timely. Brodies understands the big picture and the unique needs of a joint venture participant.’
‘Bruce Stephen does an outstanding job. He is often the voice of reason between competing counter-parties.’
‘Straightforward and clear guidance on banking matters. Pragmatic and collaborative approach.’
Key clients
Lloyds Banking Group/Bank of Scotland plc
NatWest Group
HSBC Bank Plc
Scottish Enterprise
Premium Brands Holdings Corporation
DNB Bank
Garroch Investments Limited
Bank of Ireland
Secure Trust Bank plc
European Investment Bank
Work highlights
- Acting for Goldman Sachs Bank USA to provide Scots law advice in connection with the financing aspects of the high-value takeover of Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc by US private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice for an enterprise value of £9.7bn.
- Involved in NordDeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale, Bank of Ireland and European Investment Bank extensive Irish PPP project programme, and the financing arrangements following market precedents established in a UK context, in particular the recent A465 Welsh Roads project in the UK.
- Supported Insight Enterprises Inc, headquartered in Arizona, on amendments to its existing facilities, advising on matters relating to UK law and co-ordinating counsel and specialist advice across Insight’s EMEA locations.
Finance > Investment funds Tier 1
The funds group at Brodies LLP operates at the apex of the Scottish market, offering extensive expertise across the gamut of relevant areas, from initial structuring and tax planning through to implementation, restructurings and the resolution of disputes. The practice is particularly well regarded for its capacity to design and implement innovative fund structures, such as asset-backed funding utilising Special limited partnership (SLP) structures. The offering is spearheaded by Andrew Akintewe, who is a trusted advisor to a broad range of major corporates, investment managers and banks. Paul McLaughlin is a key contact and specialises in Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs), general partnerships and SLPs, with particular expertise of renewables such as offshore and onshore wind and solar spaces. Fund finance expert Alan Knowles has an established and growing practice advising lenders on cross-border deals involving Scottish funds.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great team composed by very skilled and talented lawyers.’
‘Andrew Akintewe and his team are very efficient in tasks that are new and novel.’
‘Great team with a commercial outlook.’
Key clients
Gresham House Asset Management
MSCI Inc.
North East Scotland Pension Fund
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP
Promethean Investments LLP
Hermes Real Estate
Arjun Infrastructure Partners
Ropes & Gray LLP
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP
TPG Europe LLP
University of Edinburgh
Grosvenor Estates
Work highlights
- Advised Gresham House Asset Management on Gresham House Forest Growth & Sustainability LP, a £200m forest carbon fund with a strong ESG investment profile.
- Advised Promethean Investments LLP on a series of investment fund vehicles in its third private equity fund (Fund 3), including structuring UK – US cross-border elements.
- Advised North East Scotland Pension Fund, one of Scotland’s major public sector pension funds (which holds over £4bn of assets) on the terms of a series of investments into investment fund vehicles.
Insurance > Personal injury: defender Tier 1
Known for its ‘good quality work and experienced practitioners’, the workload of Brodies LLP's liability claims defence team includes catastrophic and foreign claims as well as construction and high-risk workplace matters. Co-head Carly Forrest in Glasgow is well versed in catastrophic injury work as well as fatal claims, and continues to handle highly sensitive and high-value matters, while Edinburgh-based fellow co-head Laura McMillan's broad practice includes a notable specialism in historic asbestos disease claims. Duncan MacLean heads the insurance and risk practice; he and Malcolm Mackay are both noted for their expertise in marine and offshore sector claims.Practice head(s):
Carly Forrest; Laura McMillan
Other key lawyers:
Kate Donachie; Malcolm Mackay; Duncan MacLean
Testimonials
‘The service from Brodies has been second to none. They are always on hand to take calls, answer queries and assist with anything that is needed.’
‘Their responses and actions are first class, and when they need any documents or information, their requests are clear and concise as to what is needed.’
‘The team has a strong work ethic and always provides suitable advice and recommendations.’
‘Carly Forrest and the team are great.’
‘Good-quality work and experienced practitioners. The team always analyses the issues in a case thoroughly and provides good instruction to counsel, including their own assessment of the issues. Client involvement is high with the solicitors keeping them up to date at all crucial points.’
‘Carly Forrest goes above and beyond to give her clients the correct advice. Her associates take a similar approach and are obviously well supervised.’
Key clients
Aviva
Zurich Insurance
Abellio Ltd
Axis Capital Insurance
Cape plc
Babcock International Group
MS Amlin
National Express Group
Enstar/Starstone Underwriting Limited
Sunderland Marine Insurance
Work highlights
- Representing Scapa Flow Charters and its insurer MS Amlin in the sensitive defence of a fatal claim which occurred in Scottish waters, involving complicated issues of the interplay between the Law of Scotland on prescription and limitation, and its interaction with an international maritime convention.
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
Described as ‘simply the best’, Brodies LLP‘s professional negligence offering runs the full gamut of contentious insurance matters where the team acts for an impressive client roster, including individual, corporate and insurer clients across a range of sectors. Head of practice Alan CalvertPractice head(s):
Alan Calvert
Other key lawyers:
Alisdair Matheson; Stephanie Barratt; James Jerman; Edward Grundy: Laura Fell
Testimonials
‘Alisdair Matheson is great to work with and quickly gets to grips with the issues in construction disputes and demonstrates sound judgement. Alisdair is clearly passionate at delivering the best result for his clients. Stephanie Barratt maintains a high standard.’
‘The team members we have dealt with are all approachable, communicative and commercially minded. Their work is of high quality and represents excellent value for money.’
‘Alan Calvert is always personally accessible, responsive and visibly involved in cases. Edward Grundy and James Jerman are both easy to work with, knowledgeable and proactive.’
‘My dealings have been with partner Alan Calvert and associate Edward Grundy, who have both been knowledgeable and helpful.’
‘Quite simply the best litigation team to work with. Very collaborative, nimble and pragmatic. They are (re)solution providers at every turn.’
‘Alan Calvert is a consummate professional.’
‘Brodies’ team is attentive, extremely knowledgeable and always available when needed. They have plainly worked hard on every aspect of my case, and it is clear to me that no stone has or will be left unturned.’
‘Alan Calvert’s depth of experience and obvious expertise has put me very much at ease.’
Key clients
RSA
Aviva
Nexus Claims Management Services Limited
Zurich
MS Amlin
XL Axa
Allianz
Arch
Aspen Insurance UK Ltd
Axis
Channel Underwriting
CGPA Europe SA
Omny LLP
Arch Insurance Company
Abertay University
Work highlights
- Acting for Abertay University on a high-profile claim brought by a former student.
Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 1
Praised for its ‘unrivaled knowledge‘ of the sector, Brodies LLP‘s rural business practice has a deep and experienced bench with demonstrable strength across the agricultural landscape. The team advises landed estates, rural businesses, developers and public sector entities on the full spectrum of agricultural matters, including complex and high-value transactions. Clive PhillipsPractice head(s):
Clive Phillips
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Brodies team provides an excellent service in a manner that is friendly, frank and honest.’
‘The Brodies team is led by Clive Phillips and supported by Andrew Askew Blain. Both have stood out in their particular specialisms and all have had a focus on closing deals.’
‘Kate McLeish’s legal knowledge in navigating a challenging project was outstanding. At all times, we felt we were in safe hands with good advice given and a trusted relationship built. With little legal knowledge ourselves, complex issues were explained clearly. The project grew as it became clear, that having legal protections in place were vital. We were so grateful for Kate going above and beyond, the reassurance her work has given us is invaluable.’
‘I have found Graeme Leith to be extremely approachable and knowledgeable on any topic around managing our estate. More often than not, he goes above and beyond what is expected and delivers on time. Pleasure to work with.’
‘Great depth of experience in a large team.’
‘The Brodies team has an unrivaled knowledge of the agriculture and estates discipline. They have a can-do attitude, and no issue or timescales seem to ever be a problem. In terms of value for money, they cannot be faulted. Highly recommend.’
‘Kate McLeish has a comprehensive knowledge of agricultural legislation and practice. Karren Smith is very experienced in land agency and renewables agreements, leases and property transactions. Both are very good at dealing with clients with excellent interpersonal skills.’
‘Clive Phillips is an experienced and practical adviser with a good understanding of key issues and commercial outcomes. Andrew Askew Blain is a very capable and articulate associate, who quickly gets to the core of the issues and provides concise and understandable advice.’
Key clients
Gladstone Family – Scottish Estates.
Innes Estates/Innes Trading Company Limited
Bagger-Sorensen Group
Glen Tanar Estate/Michael Bruce
Andrew Booth/Savock Farms
Cooke Aquaculture
Ben Alder Estate
Seafield & Reidhaven Estates
Dunecht Estates
2 Sisters Ltd
Co-op
Scottish Woodlands
Marine Harvest/ Cooke Aquaculture
Scottish Land & Estates
Andrew Graham and Sons
Jacobs
West Lothian Council
Perth & Kinross Council
Work highlights
- Assisted two clients with the purchase of a prestigious historic castle and original walled garden forming a residential, agricultural and forestry low-ground estate in the Angus Glens.
- Assisted an international client with the purchase of the historic Rossie Priory.
- Assisted Kenmore Hospitality Limited with the purchase of Glenlyon Estate, involving a sporting estate and a hydro scheme.
Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 1
With an impressive client list that includes some of the biggest charities operating in Scotland, Brodies LLP‘s charities and not-for-profit team combines its full-service offering with an extensive geographical spread across Scotland’s major cities. Kenneth Pinkerton, praised for his ‘exceptional‘ knowledge of the charity law sector, jointly heads the team with Brenda Scott . Christine O’Neill takes point on contentious matters, while Martin Sloan advises a wide variety of charities on commercial, contractual and data protection issues. The firm also receives regular instructions from philanthropic and family foundations as well as Scottish regulators and larger corporate entities operating in the charity sector. Lynne Marr and senior associate Rebekah Leviston are other notable members of the team.Practice head(s):
Kenneth Pinkerton; Brenda Scott
Other key lawyers:
Rebekah Leviston; Lynne Marr; Martin Sloan; Christine O’Neill
Testimonials
‘Kenneth Pinkerton is an experienced and safe pair of hands, who knows what is required and how to deliver it. They are good at keeping us up to date with developments in the law and understand the complex needs of this type of charitable trust. Rebekah Leviston does much of the day-to-day trust administration work and does it very well, indeed interacting efficiently and pleasantly with the trustees and our other advisers, the accountants and land agents for example.’
‘They have excellent understanding of our needs as a charity client and also of the complexity of working with a charity. They bring a thorough approach to the review and drafting of documentation and are very willing to talk through issues in depth.’
‘They have been a great team to work with over the past few months. They have been willing to explain in detail any issues and be pragmatic at finding solutions. They have all been a pleasure to work with on what has been a complex set of legal documents in relation to a lease and the setting up of several companies.’
‘Kenneth Pinkerton is a standout adviser, he is our go-to charity law adviser in Scotland. He is an insightful, detailed and thorough adviser, who speaks directly to clients in a clear, binary manner, conveying his advice in relevant and accessible terms.’
‘Martin Sloan: Always helpful, great listener, provides answers, advice and suggestions in a way that his clients can easily understand.’
‘Kenneth Pinkerton is very experienced in the area of charity law and has gone to considerable lengths to help us disentangle our legal position vis-à-vis a related body. He is very approachable and accommodating, while giving us confidence in his advice.’
‘Kenneth Pinkerton is our key contact and is an extremely patient, knowledgeable and pragmatic individual, who has become almost an extension of our internal team as a trusted colleague. His knowledge and understanding of charity law is exceptional and his ability to pose thoughtful questions and offer knowledgeable insights is an asset to us.’
‘Christine O’Neill is an excellent communicator; her expertise across a broad spectrum of legal matters is exceptional. We enjoy working with Christine; she is a very credible and approachable individual, who takes the time to listen and engage with clients.’
Key clients
The Scottish Charity Regulator
University of Edinburgh
Maggie’s Centres
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh
Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
The Scottish Garden City Housing Society Limited
Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust
Camphill Social Fund
St Mary’s Music School
Work highlights
- Sole legal adviser to the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR); recently advised the client on investigations into the management at charities and misconduct by trustees; advised on its powers to publish reports of investigations and the risks of challenge; and provided governance and charity trustee training to the board alongside training to OSCR personnel.
- Acting for Scotland’s biggest charity, the University of Edinburgh, on a large number of complex issues, including student discipline cases and policy matters, such as free speech and equalities; provided litigation support, data protection advice, employment law, charity law and VAT advice.
- Continues to provide full-service advice to Scotland’s welfare charity, including governance and charity law, data protection and commercial contract work as well as leading negotiations with the union surrounding a job evaluation scheme.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1
Brodies LLP combines its strength in commercial litigation with its private client capabilities to provide a broad contentious trust offering from four office locations across Scotland. Typical work includes executry disputes, winding up estates, validity of wills and various trustee issues. Mark Stewart heads the team and divides his time between the firm's Aberdeen and Inverness offices; he acts for wealthy individuals and their family trusts, and alongside contentious issues, also advises on estate, succession and tax planning matters. He shares this expertise with Alan BarrPractice head(s):
Mark Stewart
Other key lawyers:
Angela McCulloch; Christine O’Neill; Alan Barr; Hayley Robertson
Testimonials
‘Brodies is one of the premier firms in Scotland and its private client and tax team is particularly strong with talented new partners like Hayley Robertson and doyens like Alan Barr.’
‘Responsive and commercial. Hayley Robertson is particularly pleasant to deal with.’
‘Brodies LLP has an excellent reputation for providing advice of the highest calibre from lawyers with a great knowledge base, experience and above all, integrity. The client experience is first class.’
‘Angela McCulloch has excellent technical knowledge, is calm and approachable.’
‘I worked mostly with Hayley Robertson and her team. They were efficient and innovative, finding solutions to problems and solving them.’
‘Extremely professional with a deep depth of knowledge throughout the team.’
‘The team is very diverse and highly technical in experience, dealing with some of the most complex cases.’
‘Angela McCulloch is an excellent lawyer and has been pivotal in our case.’
Work highlights
Private client > Family Tier 1
With an experienced bench of family law specialists, the family law practice at Brodies LLP is well placed to handle a wide range of instructions, from complex and high-value divorces to child abduction cases and residence issues; with the arrival of Jacqueline Stroud from MacRoberts LLP in June 2022, the team also boosted its capabilities in financial provision and mediation work. Shaun George leads the group from the firm's Aberdeen office, while Lisa Girdwood, who excels in international child abduction cases, is a key contact in Glasgow. Other key individuals include the Inverness-based Sarah Lilley (child law and family law mediation) and the Aberdeen-based Susie Mountain (particular expertise in the relocation of children); both were elevated to the partnership in May 2022. At associate level, the team is supported by Victoria Varty and Garry Sturrock. Senior associate Debbie Reekie recently joined from BTO; she is known for being 'very easy to deal with' and 'adopting a constructive approach to her cases'.Practice head(s):
Shaun George
Other key lawyers:
Jacqueline Stroud; Victoria Varty; Lisa Girdwood; Susie Mountain; Sarah Lilley; Garry Sturrock; Debbie Reekie
Testimonials
‘Lisa Girdwood in Glasgow is, without doubt, one of the best family/divorce solicitors in Scotland. Her preparation for my case was nothing short of outstanding. She developed a strategy for me, which worked greatly to my benefit. All due to her vast knowledge, experience and tenacity.’
‘Sarah Lilley was able to explore all avenues in the context of a complex case involving two countries. All this while ensuring that her client, despite the language barrier and the differences in legal functioning, fully understood all the options and the course of the procedure carried out. Her rigour, her relevance and her availability make her an excellent lawyer.’
‘They have big hitters at partner level (Lisa Girdwood is the standout partner) but also real strength in depth at associate level. As a full-service firm, they can provide unrivalled support in other areas on the more complex cases.’
‘Lisa Girdwood is an excellent choice for both high-value financial cases but also the more complex children cases. She cares deeply about her clients and does whatever it takes to achieve great results. She is an academic lawyer, who is able to combine a serious intellect with first-rate client care skills. A class act!’
‘Jacqueline Stroud is a particularly skilled and empathetic mediator – she is a first point of referral for my mediation cases. Lisa Girdwood is a strong and very experienced negotiator.’
‘Jacqueline Stroud: Excellent family lawyer, always a pleasure to deal with. She does her utmost to resolve cases collaboratively.’
‘Shaun George has a wealth of experience and keeps a direct eye on cases. Lisa Girdwood combines a sympathetic approach with a good knowledge of law and practice. Susie Mountain’s positive approach to cases makes her a pleasure to work with. Both Jacqueline Stroud and Victoria Varty are excellent practitioners. I would single out senior associate Garry Sturrock for his enthusiasm and commitment. He is one to watch.’
‘Debbie Reekie is very easy to deal with; she adopts a constructive approach to her cases, with resolution by agreement at the forefront of her mind.’
Work highlights
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and executries Tier 1
Brodies LLP acts for several of Scotland’s wealthiest individuals and families, providing assistance with the full range of private client matters. Working in close conjunction with its family law team, the group is particularly adept advising on the establishment and administration of family investment companies and limited partnerships. Its deep and experienced bench is led by Mark Stewart (qualified in Scotland as well as in England and Wales), and includes tax planning expert Alan BarrPractice head(s):
Mark Stewart
Other key lawyers:
Alan Barr; Susanne Batchelor; Caitlin Wright; Stewart Gibson; Jessica Flowerdew; Norman Kennedy; Hayley Robertson; Leigh Gould; Angela McCulloch
Testimonials
‘Susanne Batchelor and Caitlin Wright are excellent, responsive to emails and always give excellent advice.’
‘Extremely professional with a deep depth of knowledge throughout the team.’
‘Susanne Batchelor is an amazing private client lawyer; she is very switched on and approachable. She leads a fabulous team with Stewart Gibson and Jessica Flowerdew. All of them are equally good – a safe pair of hands.’
‘Norman Kennedy is a hugely experienced private client lawyer. His breadth of knowledge and application of it cuts through complex legal issues to provide solutions which satisfy requirements and are commercially acceptable/beneficial. His chartered accountancy and legal qualifications set him apart as he fully understands the financial consequences of his legal advice. Norman is very engaging and personable and relaxes clients and colleagues alike.’
‘An excellent team well led. Efficient, competent and ahead of the game, timeous delivery, and lawyers very personable. All sectors well covered with good collaboration when required.’
‘Leigh Gould is one of the top private client practitioners in Aberdeen.’
‘Hayley Robertson is extremely professional, technically excellent and has a lovely way of making clients feel very relaxed and comfortable.’
‘Angela McCulloch is not only a highly technical and excellent lawyer, she is extremely personable, easy to talk to and is very generous with her time. She is a great sounding board, and if there have been any concerns or questions with a case, she is able to explain things in simple terms, is very thorough and is always able to provide good outcomes.’
Work highlights
Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy (excluding oil and gas) Tier 1
Acting for a broad range of clients including developers, operators, overseas utilities, landowners, investors and contractors, the practice at Brodies LLP offers specialist expertise across the range of renewable energies, from hydro and wind farming to solar and bioenergy. Particularly strong advising the independent power producer (IPP) sector, the team is co-headed by Keith Patterson, who leads on transactional work and the firm’s well regarded project finance capabilities. Kirsty Macpherson also leads the team and brings over 20 years of experience advising developers and landowners on renewables projects, with specialist knowledge regarding rural land crofting issues. Sarah-Jane McArthur is noted for her in-depth knowledge of renewable subsidy regimes and the wider regulatory environment, while managing associate Claire Reid has been involved in some of Scotland’s largest wind projects.Practice head(s):
Keith Patterson; Kirsty Macpherson
Other key lawyers:
Sarah-Jane McArthur; Claire Reid
Testimonials
‘The Brodies Energy team are very responsive, effective and provide a good and practical level of advice. They understand a client’s needs and require minimum direction.’
‘The team is responsive and capable.’
‘Individuals are responsive and engaged.’
‘The breadth of infrastructure/energy experience is a real strength of this team, coupled with their versatility.’
‘Sarah-Jayne McArthur has a straight-forward approach to progressing discussions, identifying issues and working with all other stakeholders to get sensible solutions in the best interests of all parties. Professional, personable and pragmatic.’
‘Excellent energy sector knowledge. The team at Brodies are unrivalled in their understanding of the UK energy market and applicable legislation. They are a go-to for interpreting new regulation or policy, which there has been a lot of that over the previous 12 months.’
‘Keith Patterson is an expert in energy market regulation, and always very up to speed with any changes or developments. He is also very strong in translating this into contract negotiations – ensuring that what his client has reflects the current position and is future proofed to the extent possible.’
‘Sarah-Jane McArthur has excellent knowledge across the broad energy industry. She is very strong in negotiation and commercial positioning, and incredibly dedicated to securing the best outcome for her clients.’
Key clients
Vattenfall Wind Power Limited
Orsted
Fred Olsen Seawind Limited
Macquarie
Gresham House
Ventient Energy
Banks Renewables
Vattenfall Heat
Energiekontor
Clydesdale Bank
Aker Solutions
Naval Energies
Statera Energy
Work highlights
- Assisted Clyde Gateway Developments Limited (urban regeneration company) in the development of an innovative 5G ambient heat network in a regeneration area.
- Assisted Octopus Renewables (one of the largest renewable energy investors in Europe) on its acquisition of a 48MW Crossdykes Wind Farm.
- Assisted Gresham House Solar Distribution LLP (specialist alternative asset manager) with the purchase and construction of Harborough Solar Park on a merchant basis.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Oil and gas Tier 1
A pre-eminent firm in the Scottish oil and gas market, Brodies LLP is considered a ‘go-to firm for any offshore oil and gas-related matters’ and in May 2023, it expanded its international offering by opening an office in Abu Dhabi. The ‘outstanding’ Clare Munro leads the team, bringing extensive experience in corporate oil and gas matters, including asset acquisitions and disposals and related diligence exercises. Greg May leads the firm’s service-sector offering and has over two decades of experience in the drilling sector, with considerable international project experience spanning Europe, North America and the Middle East. Rhona McFarlane has experience of all aspects of UKCS upstream and midstream work, including joint ventures, field developments and transportation agreements. Sonia Love left in December 2022 for an in-house role at TotalEnergies, while Bryan Wilson recently relocated to Abu Dhabi to play a key role in the firm's new Middle East operation.Practice head(s):
Clare Munro
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Highly knowledgeable and respected.’
‘A dedicated resource for oil and gas companies with practical and relevant experience, rather than being a team inflated by the inclusion of other solicitors who happen to have participated in transactions with oil and gas companies.’
‘Greg May brings complete confidence that he will be able to offer help with whatever query may cross his desk.’
‘The team is made up of very talented lawyers, most of which have either spent time working in-house before joining Brodies, or have been seconded in-house during their time with the firm. The result is a group of lawyers that provide very useful, pragmatic legal support with an appreciation of what is and is not important to in-house counsel.’
‘Greg May has unrivalled expertise when it comes to oil and gas service-sector contracts. Greg is extremely commercially aware, which is invaluable from an in-house legal perspective.’
‘Really good depth across the team with a wide range of experience in oil and gas matters ranging from projects to disputes and employment. Lots of good knowledge and different teams within Brodies work well together to make it easy for the client.’
‘Clare Munro is highly experienced and incredibly commercial.’
‘Deep knowledge and experience of the energy industry.’
Key clients
Spirit Energy
North Sea Midstream Partners
Dana Petroleum
Nobel Upstream
Public sector > Education Tier 1
Praised for its ‘deep knowledge of the sector’, Brodies LLP's education practice counts several of Scotland’s leading universities among its clients, which reflects its particular strength in the higher education sector. The team receives frequent instructions on a wide range of sector-specific work, including employment, governance and sensitive student matters. Brenda Scott and Niall McLean jointly head the team; Scott frequently handles transactional and commercial work and McLean receives regular instructions on governance and student matters. Lynne Marr specialises in employment law and acts for higher education clients and independent schools. Associate Kirstyn Burke is another key member of the team.Practice head(s):
Brenda Scott; Niall McLean
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great knowledge of the HEI sector. Responsive and reactive – always. They are almost an extension of our own in-house team. They understand our business and are able to provide legal advice in context.’
‘Niall McLean and Kirstyn Burke – both of these individuals are outstanding and a pleasure to work with. They are pragmatic, responsive and understand the HEI sector tremendously well.’
‘Deep understanding of the sector combined with a broad range of experience within the team.’
‘Niall McLean is a standout – extremely responsive and knowledgeable about the sector and gives clear and strategic advice.’
Key clients
Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)
Queen Margaret University (QMU)
University of Dundee
University of Edinburgh
University of Aberdeen
London Universities Procurement Consortium (LUPC)
Newbattle Abbey College
Stirling, Falkirk and Argyll and Bute Councils
Inverness College
Work highlights
- Retained by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), the national qualifications body in Scotland, as its sole supplier of legal services. Recent work includes advice on the impacts of Covid-19 and on proposed changes to the framework for Scottish qualifications made by the independent Muir Report that there should be a new education agency to replace SQA.
- Advising the University of Edinburgh on a wide range of employment, governance and student issues.
- Assisting the University of Dundee with student issues.
Public sector > Local government Tier 1
Brodies LLP’s local government offering runs the gamut of public sector work with the team advising on a wide range of high-profile contentious and non-contentious matters. It has significant experience in the infrastructure, energy and construction sectors and regularly advises on related contract, governance and investigations matters. Practice co-head Jackie McGuire, based in Glasgow, is recognised for her expertise advising on major infrastructure projects, while co-head Niall McLean, in Edinburgh, advises local councils on governance matters with particular strength in contentious work. Other key members of the team include Sarah-Jane McArthur, Lynne Marr and Stuart Murray.Practice head(s):
Jackie McGuire; Niall McLean
Other key lawyers:
Douglas Waddell; Lynne Marr; Fiona McLeod; Tony Convery; Stuart Murray; Sarah-Jane McArthur
Testimonials
‘Jackie McGuire, Niall McLean, Douglas Waddell and Lynne Marr continue to impress. Fiona McLeod and Tony Convery have recently provided valuable assistance in connection with Court of Session child care proceedings which required immediate attention.’
‘The team acts in a very professional way and has a high level of expertise. Their understanding and recognition of commercial challenges is largely unmatched by other firms, therefore solutions are found quickly.’
‘Stuart Murray is our lead contact within Brodies. We have worked with him for a number of years, and his good natured approach coupled with his expertise and sector knowledge means that he is our automatic “go-to” for advice. This combination of attributes is extremely rare in our experience.’
‘Very happy with the work produced for us by the LG team at Brodies. They have advised on a range of matters and have been quick to provide clear, useable advice.’
Key clients
Aberdeen City Council
Glasgow City Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Stirling Council
Perth & Kinross Council
Argyll and Bute Council
Moray Council
Orkney Islands Council
Falkirk Council
North Lanarkshire Council
Work highlights
- Advised Argyll and Bute, Falkirk, Stirling and Perth and Kinross Councils on a wide range of matters, including real estate, housing, roads, projects, employment, corporate, governance, litigation and elections.
- Supporting South Ayrshire Council with issues pertaining to a satellite manufacturing facility and operating network at the former Prestwick Airport, being taken forward as part of the Scottish Government’s Space Strategy aimed at developing a programme of Scottish satellite launches and funded in part by the Ayrshire Growth Fund.
- Acted for the City of Edinburgh Council in a judicial review in the Court of Session challenging the council’s decision to, in the context of its determination to require the licensing of sexual entertainment venues (SEVs), set the number of SEVs in its area as being zero.
Public sector > Parliamentary and public affairs Tier 1
Brodies LLP‘s wide-ranging practice covers the full spectrum of parliamentary and public affairs, with the team’s expertise spanning both contentious and non-contentious legislative and constitutional matters. The ‘outstanding‘ Christine O’Neill heads the practice and is regularly instructed by governmental authorities to act on high-profile public inquiries and constitutional law cases before Scottish and UK courts. Legislative drafting is a core specialism for the firm, with O’Neill and public law specialist Charles Livingstone being key contacts in this area. Other key members of the team include Jackie McGuire, who advises regulatory bodies and local authorities on statutory matters, and Niall McLean, who routinely handles public sector disputes.Practice head(s):
Christine O’Neill
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Brodies has assembled an exceptional team in public law, all of whom can be relied on to be completely up to date with the latest developments in the law, are extremely bright, interested and articulate in discussing it, and yet they still retain the ability to stand back from legal and factual complexity and apply common sense in order to achieve a practicable and workable outcome for their clients.’
‘Christine O’Neill is the outstanding figure here, as she has been for years. Her ability, good judgment and long experience mean that Brodies is always in demand for public law issues. She has assembled and shaped a team that delivers impressive results.’
‘Exceptional knowledge of a relatively obscure area of the law relating to regulatory affairs in the public sector.’
‘Ability to understand the key issues that I am seeking advice on and the ability to provide that advice in a readily understandable way.’
Key clients
Scottish Renewables
Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland
Scottish Government
Scotch Whisky Association
Law Society of Scotland
Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body
COSLA
Scottish Land and Estates
Scottish Refugee Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Work highlights
- Appeared as senior counsel in the UK Supreme Court as part of the Lord Advocate’s legal team on the question whether the Scottish Parliament has the power to hold a referendum on independence.
- Instructed by the Law Society of Scotland to draft policies, rules and guidance to enable the society to regulate Licensed Legal Providers, creating a complaints’ framework that was compatible with existing statutory frameworks as well as being practicable and meeting legal principles about good decision-making.
- Advised the Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland on its work under the Commissioner for Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2003 and United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Real estate > Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 1
Brodies LLP is geared to support on the full spectrum of commercial property matters, due not least to the group’s wider expertise in planning, tax, environment, construction, and property litigation. Seasoned development and investment deal expert Johane Murray heads the practice, which has enjoyed a recent uptick in the build-to-rent (BTR) and life sciences fields. Managing partner Nick ScottPractice head(s):
Johane Murray
Other key lawyers:
Nick Scott; Richard Whyte; James Roscoe; Colin Morrison; Chris McDaid; Tanya MacLeod; Allan Cairns; Elaine Petterson
Testimonials
‘They have a strong and deep team providing a range of legal advice and are closely aligned with our values and approach to business.’
‘Johanne Murray’s technical knowledge and commercial approach is excellent.’
‘Having had no previous experience of the firm we have been very impressed.’
‘Brodies consistently deliver a strong level of service, with an eye on commerciality, whilst delivering excellent value for money.’
‘Elaine Petterson operates effectively in a competitive market, displaying a commendable breadth of experience and expertise.’
‘Allan Cairns is always fully up to date on our account.’
‘The team is professional, high quality and commercially aware.’
‘James Roscoe is experienced, professional, responsive, efficient and commercially aware.’
Key clients
Ambassador Group
BBC Pension Trust
Bruntwood SciTech
Cervidae
Cordatus Property Unit Trust
Drum Property Group
Ediston Real Estate
Frasers Group
GG Cap
Knight Property Group
Moda Living
Nuveen
Orion Capital Partners
Realty Income
Soller Group
Union Investment Institutional Property
Work highlights
- Advised Bruntwood SciTech on the acquisition of the Met Tower in Glasgow for redevelopment as a centre for technology innovation.
- Acted for Janus Henderson in the £905m investment sale of the entire Janus Henderson UK Property PAIF portfolio of assets to Oval Real Estate.
- Acted for Henderson Park and Eurofund in the £140m acquisition of the Jersey trust owning the Silverburn Shopping Centre in Glasgow.
Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland Tier 1
Brodies LLP is home to a number of the market’s most accomplished commercial property lawyers outside of the Central Belt with the team often leveraging the firm’s wider planning, tax, environment, construction and litigation capabilities. In Aberdeen, Tracey Menzies specialises in commercial and residential transactions and developments, with a particular focus on the office, housebuilding and build-to-rent (BTR) sectors. Elsewhere, Inverness-based Karren Smith‘s recent work spans land acquisitions, reorganisations and portfolio management matters. Senior associate Jenna McCosh (Aberdeen) is geared to support on development, leasing, asset management and finance mandates.Practice head(s):
Johane Murray
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Depth of knowledge and skill in their sector.’
‘The team is friendly, responsive, and delivers all that we require in terms of quality of advice in a very timely manner.’
‘Tracey Menzies gives excellent support in the preparation of leases and property disposals which we regularly carry out as part of our daily business.’
‘Strength in numbers and the ability to look at a complex deal and help make it happen.’
‘Tracey Menzies is very commercial and to-the-point. She has the ability and experience to focus on the important points and not get bogged down with everything else.’
Key clients
Aberdeen City Council
Aberdeenshire Council
Bancon Group
CALA Homes
Cater Property Investment
Cooke Aquaculture
Drum Property Group
GSS Developments
Knight Property Group
Lerwick Port Authority
Mandale Group
Montrose Port Authority
Ponticelli
Tulloch Homes
University of Aberdeen
University of Edinburgh
University of West of Scotland
Warehouse 13
Workplace Commercial Estates
Work highlights
- Acting for Elmford Ltd in the sale of land to Avant Homes for two phases of residential development at Robroyston in Glasgow.
- Acting for Mandale in the purchase of a site in Edinburgh for residential development.
- Acting for Knight Property Group in the pre-let and subsequent lease of the first unit at the industrial development at Belgrave Logistics Park, Bellshill, Lanarkshire.
Real estate > Construction Tier 1
Brodies LLP is the first port of call for numerous blue chips, investors, developers and contractors in large-scale projects and associated disputes. Practice co-head Louise Shiels specialises in contentious mandates, many of which have recently encompassed the healthcare and energy sectors, and is supported by Manus Quigg, an expert in construction insurance, as well as David Arnott and Christopher Duff, whose experience spans fire protection and cladding disputes. Fellow co-head Alistair McleanPractice head(s):
Alistair McLean; Louise Shiels
Other key lawyers:
David Arnott; Manus Quigg; Christopher Duff; Jane McMonagle; Kirsteen Milne; Erica Johnston
Testimonials
‘The team are responsive and supportive when we are working to tight timescales, which is crucial to our business and marks Brodies out from other firms.’
‘Kirsteen Milne is great at getting into the detail of what we are really looking to achieve in a commercial agreement and finding a practical way of getting us what we need.’
‘Christopher Duff brings a calm and measured perspective to complex disputes and navigates a clear path through to achieving a cost-effective resolution.’
‘I value the industry-specific knowledge and expertise which Brodies provide as well as their highly focused and strategic perspective in helping to resolve commercial and contractual challenges.’
‘David Arnott has stood out for us over many years in his ability to quickly cut through the noise and get to the heart of the key issues which materially affect outcomes.’
‘Brodies have expert knowledge of both Scots and England and Wales law. I find that they are all very approachable and provide clear and concise advice and are responsive to our needs in both contentious and non-contentious matters, North and South of the border.’
‘David Arnott is our go-to lawyer on contentious matters – a very knowledgeable and experienced individual.’
‘Erica Johnston is knowledgeable, hardworking and always available when needed.’
Key clients
Drum Property Group
McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd
Aggreko
Robertson Construction Group
Multiplex Construction Europe Ltd
Amey Power Services Ltd
Balfour Beatty
John Graham Construction
Kier Construction Limited
Dragados
Bruntwood
EQT Exeter
Am Trust Europe Limited
Beck Interiors Limited
Cruden Building (Scotland) Limited
Apache Capital Partners
Ediston Real Estate
DWS
KSL Capital Partners
Last Mile Asset Management
Whyte & Mackay
Work highlights
- Advising Multiplex on the delivery and completion of the £490m construction of the new Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow; on contentious disputes arising out of the delivery and on the completion of the £150m construction of the new Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh.
- Advising Bruntwood Met Tower Limited on the construction aspects of the redevelopment of the Met Tower (Glasgow) into a digital and tech hub.
- Advising EQT Exeter on the mixed-use development of industrial floorspace and residential apartments in Bermondsey (London).
Real estate > Planning Tier 1
Brodies LLP is best known for its extensive public sector client roster though is also frequently instructed by notable developers and other private sector clients in high-profile projects, some of which involve environmentally sensitive locations, such as Loch Hourn. Aberdeen-based Elaine Farquharson-Black has a particular focus on the housebuilding sector, and handles a mixture of housing and mixed-use developments; she heads up the practice alongside the Edinburgh-based Neil Collar, whose strength lies in renewable energy projects. Karen Hamilton (Glasgow) assists local authorities promoting various infrastructure projects, with a focus on compulsory purchase orders and compensation matters.Practice head(s):
Neil Collar; Elaine Farquharson-Black
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Their attention to detail is exemplary and they are on top of everything that’s going on in the planning world. They adapt and inform immediately of any changes to planning laws or potential issues. Can’t recommend them highly enough.’
‘Neil Collar is a consummate professional and leader in his field. He has worked with us on a very challenging planning application and has achieved excellent results. He is thorough, calm and has a wonderful ability to explain very complex legal jargon in layman’s terms.’
‘High level of expertise across all planning issues.’
‘Karen Hamilton understands the needs of her client and offers considered and concise advice in tight timescales.’
‘Elaine Farquharson-Black is an exceptional solicitor in the planning and compulsory purchase field. Her connections and understanding of the area along with the ability to create and find solutions make her our go-to planning lawyer.’
‘Elaine Farquharson-Black is an exceedingly knowledgeable and driven solicitor who continually exceeds expectations in the delivery solutions.’
‘Very knowledgeable, personable, experienced and professional team who can navigate the planning system both from a legal and practical perspective in a very user friendly and timely manner.’
‘We consider Neil Collar to be the finest legal mind with regards to onshore renewables in Scotland. We find his experience, insight and strategic approach invaluable to delivering our work.’
Key clients
Scotia Homes
Stewart Milne Homes
First Endeavour
CALA Homes
KR Developments
Energiekontor
Thomson Quarries
Banks Renewables
Stonepack
Mowi Scotland Limited
Work highlights
- Advised KR Developments on an appeal to the Scottish Ministers against refusal of a built-to-rent scheme by the Glasgow City Council.
- Advising Mowi Scotland Limited on an appeal to the Scottish Ministers against refusal by the Highland Council of permission for installation of larger pens and an increase of 250 tonnes in permitted biomass at its existing fish farm at Loch Hourn.
- Assisting Energiekontor with obtaining planning permission for four wind farm sites, totalling 190MW of electricity generation capacity.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1
With the experienced litigation expert Stephen GoldiePractice head(s):
Stephen Goldie
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Farrell; Gareth Hale; Ken MacDonald; David Ford
Testimonials
‘Extremely professional and always maintaining a commercial view of the issues involved.’
‘Their technical knowledge is always up to date and delivered in a concise and helpful manner.’
‘I have had many years of dealing with Brodies and always find the team to be very experienced, exceptionally commercial and cost-effective.’
‘Stephen Goldie stands out among his competitors. His advice is very well considered with regards to the type of dispute.’
‘We have always received acutely commercial advice from seasoned litigators.’
‘The standout performer in this team is Stephen Goldie. His advice is concisely delivered, insightful, intelligent and commercial.’
‘Matthew Farrell is very approachable and is able quickly grasp the commercial aspects of a situation. He has the ability to break down complex lease provisions into plain English making our decision-making process far easier.’
‘Matthew Farrell, Stephen Goldie and David Ford are excellent and leaders in their field. Their knowledge of the law and ability to offer solutions depending upon circumstances, with clear recommendations sets them apart.’
Key clients
Eurofund and Henderson Park
Cala
Mileway
Orion Capital Partners
M&G
Peel Ports
Ediston
Moorfield Group Limited
M7
CBRE
Work highlights
- Advising Henderson Park and Eurofund on all landlord and tenant issues, from recovery of tenant arrears to pursing dilapidations claims, with respect to Silverburn Shopping Centre, Glasgow.
- Acting for GWR (part of the Wildstone group of companies) in high-value proceedings against Forrest Outdoor Media Limited concerning the construction and letting of the M8 Tower, Scotland’s largest advertising structure at Glasgow Airport.
- Acting for Ashtenne Caledonia Limited in three high-value dilapidations claims that have been raised in the Commercial Court of Session against its former tenants of large industrial units.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1
Having established an ‘enviable reputation in Scotland’ for its intellectual property expertise, Brodies LLP continues to handle a broad range of transactional and dispute resolution work, covering all aspects of IP protection, commercialisation and enforcement. The team is also noted for its regulatory capabilities, advising major clients in heavily regulated industries including pharmaceuticals, biotech, food and consumer products. Leading on the non-contentious side is Grant Campbell, who regularly handles transactions for major clients in the finance, technology, aviation and utilities sectors. Iain Rutherford heads the contentious offering and is highly adept when advising on IP-related disputes including outsourcing, domain name matters, online defamation and IT supplier issues. David Gallagher brings extensive knowledge of the life sciences and biotechnology sectors, while transactional specialist Martin Sloan is particularly strong in the PE, media and food and drink sectors. Senior associate Monica Connolly is well versed in representing global IT companies in IP disputes, while associate Jennifer Murphy is highly regarded for her trade mark expertise. Alison Bryce joined from Dentons in August 2023,Practice head(s):
Grant Campbell; Iain Rutherford
Other key lawyers:
David Gallagher; Martin Sloan; Monica Connolly; Jennifer Murphy; Alison Bryce
Testimonials
‘The team at Brodies is very broad, and they carry an enviable reputation in Scotland for legal advice, especially in IP.’
‘Working with Iain Rutherford is always a pleasure. He has a wide knowledge of legal IP matters, is a very safe pair of hands and speaks with authority on his subject.’
‘A strong team that are easy to work with.’
‘David Gallagher of the Brodie’s team has first-hand experience of working in a biotech company and knows the commercial challenges and advice required.’
‘Personality and individuality.’
‘I thought that the team provided an excellent service, responding very quickly to the issue.’
‘The solution was concise and worked! Would definitely recommend.’
‘Monica Connolly was exceptional. I was very impressed by her advice, which was practical and achieved the result I wanted. She was not daunted by the size of the opposition; instead focusing on the relevant case law and finding a way to communicate that successfully.’
Key clients
Wild & Wolf (a D.C. Thomson & Co subsidiary)
Tomatin Distillery
DC Thomson
University of Edinburgh/Edinburgh Innovations Limited
Scotcomms Technology Group Limited
Scottish Qualifications Authority
ACS Clothing
Performing Rights Society (PRS) and PPL PRS
Sonos, Inc.
Age Scotland
Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
Leucid Bio Limited
University of Swansea
University of St Andrews
Abellio Scotrail/Scotrail Trains Limited
Work highlights
- Advising a world-famous Scotch whisky brand on global, UK and European Union trade marks matters.
- Advising clients in the renewable power sector regarding the development of patentable technology.
- Providing strategic advice on product commercialisation to a number of clients in the life sciences sector, on a broad range of research and development-related matters.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1
With an impressive client roster that includes Scottish and international blue-chip tech corporations and public sector clients, the multidisciplinary IT and IP team at Brodies LLP handles the full spectrum of IT and telecoms work, including innovative and novel technologies. Assisting clients in the tech space with private equity-backed transactions constitutes a particular area of expertise. Grant Campbell and Martin Sloan jointly lead the team and handle data protection alongside non-contentious technology and outsourcing matters. Iain Rutherford is the key contact for contentious matters, routinely handling high-profile IT and outsourcing disputes.Practice head(s):
Grant Campbell; Martin Sloan
Other key lawyers:
Iain Rutherford; Alison Bryce; Ally Burr
Testimonials
‘The Brodies team is very proactive, understands our business well and ensures we’re well briefed on potential impacting regulations and changes in our industry. With a dedicated team and the ability to draw in experts from across the business, we feel well supported.’
‘Martin Sloan is our main contact; he demonstrates a very strong knowledge of our specific business, industry and challenges. He’s tackled all work with a thorough and detailed approach and keeps strong engagement to relevant stakeholders in our business.’
‘Leaders in the area of eSignature.’
‘Martin Sloan: A ‘go-to’ person from an eSignature perspective. Martin has advised us on the use of eSignature and has thus justifiably earned deservedly a reputation as a subject matter expert in the world of eSignature.’
‘Excellent sector and industry knowledge and insight. Team acts as an extension of our in-house legal team, enhancing capability and capacity.’
Key clients
CapGemini
CGI
Borderlink Broadband/Go Fibre
Accel-KKR
ResDiary
Scottish Water
Scotrail Trains Limited
DC Thomson
WNS
Shetland Telecom
Work highlights
- Advising the fibre network operator Borderlink Broadband/GoFibre on its successful Project Gigabit bids to enable thousands of hard-to-reach homes and businesses to access gigabit-capable broadband in Teeside and Northumberland.
- Advising global tech-focussed PE firm Accel-KKR on the acquisition of Singletrack Systems Limited, a capital markets client engagement and data analytics business.
- Advising leading restaurant reservations management platform ResDiary on the launch of DishCult Rewards, its new customer loyalty scheme.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment Tier 1
With firm chair and experienced KC Christine O’Neill at the helm, Brodies LLP‘s team in Edinburgh maintains an excellent defamation and reputation management offering, working with leading global broadcasters and content platforms on media disputes and injunctive proceedings. Senior associate Sarah McCormick further excels in this area, handling a mixture of defamation, privacy and contempt of court issues. Also praised in the contentious sphere is Niall McLean for his litigation and reputation management advice to individuals, corporations and public authorities. Martin Sloan anchors the firm’s equally strong commercial media practice, advising major Scottish publishers and global production studios on a range of contracts, IP and data matters.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Brodies will offer not just imaginative and enjoyable professional development opportunities, but also bespoke seminars for particular needs. It has unrivalled public law expertise and is always accessible.’
‘Christine O’Neill KC is irreplaceably smart, thoroughly decent and the finest Scots public lawyer of her generation.’
‘The team at Brodies are responsive and demonstrate a pragmatic, commercial mindset that recognises the challenges and constraints we have to work within as a business.’
‘Martin Sloan is so approachable – whether it’s to give an informal second opinion on something, or to support us with a challenging new project. He’s my go-to external advisor on data protection matters and I know we can rely on him, and his wider team, to help when we’re in need.’
‘Niall McLean provided excellent advice and displayed expertise on each matter I was facing. He also displayed exceptional ethics and moral diligence through nuanced issues.’
‘Brodies went above and beyond in precarious public matters to ensure my best interests were served at all times, and displayed a great amount of consideration to the stressful circumstances.’
Key clients
Meta
BBC
DC Thomson
Edinburgh International Festival
Edinburgh International Book Festival
Hyper Luminal Games
Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society
National Theatre of Scotland
Marine and Lawn
Rewards4 Group
Work highlights
- Retained by BBC Scotland to provide on call legal advice to Scotland journalists and current affairs staff.
- Providing ongoing litigation advice to a global social media platform with a focus on commercial litigation, defamation and IP infringement proceedings.
- Advised Mowi on matters relating to its sponsorship of Gordon Ramsay’s new ITV show, Next Level Chef.
Scotland > Transport Tier 1
Adept across all commercial, infrastructure and regulatory aspects of transport projects, Brodies LLP is a leading player in the Scottish market and has long-established strength in the rail, shipping and aviation sectors, as well as the emerging market in zero-carbon transport. Duncan MacLean heads the shipping and transport team and covers both contentious and non-contentious work, while Roger CottonPractice head(s):
Duncan MacLean
Other key lawyers:
Roger Cotton; Fehmida Hanif; Odell Milne; Karen Hamilton; Jackie McGuire
Testimonials
‘Brodies are extremely responsive to our requests for legal advice. They very quickly put us in touch with the subject-matter experts and meetings were quickly set up. The advice or response is always in a very timely manner, and they have been able to turn some pieces around within 24 hours.’
‘Duncan MacLean is extremely proficient, professional, knowledgeable and personable.’
‘They understand our business and listen to what we are seeking to achieve. Working diligently, they support in many different legal areas.’
‘The breadth of experience allows the team to provide pragmatic and practical advice which is easy to understand and follow. The team is very approachable and open to new ideas and questions.’
‘The Brodies team have an unrivalled knowledge of the transport discipline, for example in relation to statutory process in the planning of linear transport infrastructure projects. They have a can-do-attitude and no issue or timescale seems to ever be a problem. In terms of value for money, they cannot be faulted. Highly recommended.’
‘Odell Milne: outstanding in her field. The can-do-attitude brings a great degree of calm to clients. Channelling her industry-leading knowledge of the subject matters has led to all issues being overcome, even when programme dates are incredibly demanding.’
‘Jackie McGuire is superb. She is pragmatic, solutions driven and understands the needs of her client. She acknowledges instructions quickly, delegates appropriately, and is always available when her expertise is required.’
‘Karen Hamilton has provided invaluable assistance on some very complex and detailed matters.’
Key clients
Abellio East Midlands
Aberdeen City Council
Agility Logistics
Albatrans
Argyll and Bute Council (local roads authority)
Associated British Ports
AXA XL
Bank of Scotland
Beazley
BP Shipping Ltd
Borr Drilling
CalMac Ferries
City of Edinburgh Council (local roads authority)
Clarkson Port Services (Clarksons)
Clyde Marine Services
Clydesdale Bank
DB Cargo
Edinburgh City Council
Falkirk Council (local roads authority)
International Group P&I Clubs (including North of England, Gard, UK, Standard, Britannia, West of England, Steamship, Shipowners and Skuld)
Jacobs UK Ltd
Lerwick Port Authority
Leyland Trucks Limited
Lothian Buses
Maersk Drilling
Midlothian Council (local roads authority)
MS Amlin
Montrose Port Authority
Network Rail
NMU Speciality Insurance
Perth and Kinross Council
Petroineos
Royal Bank of Scotland
Royal Yacht Britannia
ScotRail
Seaway Heavy Lift
Serco Northlink Ferries
Stirling Council (local roads authority)
Stirling Council (road and rail interface)
Stornoway Port Authority
Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (West of Scotland Regional Transport Partnership)
Subsea 7 Ltd
Sunderland Marine
Svitzer Marine Ltd
Swire Oilfield Do Brasil Limitada
TT Club
XPO Logistics
Work highlights
- Acted for Perth and Kinross Council on the Cross Tay Link Road, one of the most significant roads infrastructure projects ever undertaken by a Scottish local authority, which will include a new road bridge over the Highland mainline railway and one of Scotland’s largest rivers.
- Acted for Network Rail Infrastructure Ltd providing strategic advice and claim support to Network Rail in relation to claims against The Coal Authority following subsidence which impacted the railway near Kilmarnock in July 2022.
- Continued to advise the new public sector owned ScotRail Trains Limited in relation to its operations.
Employment > Immigration Tier 2
Brodies LLP's immigration group sits within the firm’s wider employment practice leading to particular strength in business immigration. Regular employer clients include large corporates, universities and other public sector organisations. The main point of contact is the Glasgow-based Elaine McIlroy, whose expertise spans sponsor licence applications, skilled worker and spousal visas, and compliance advice. Much of her recent work stems from the financial services, technology, education, transport and energy sectors.Practice head(s):
Elaine McIlroy
Other key lawyers:
Tony Hadden; Lynne Marr; Erin McLafferty
Testimonials
‘The team worked very well together and helped with all our questions and concerns in a very timely manner and went above and beyond to help us through a difficult time.’
‘Brodies is an excellent and reputable practice with a lot of knowledge regarding immigration laws and regulations.’
‘The expertise of Erin McLafferty and Elaine McIlroy in this field is very valuable.’
‘Elaine McIlroy is extremely knowledgeable, professional and pragmatic.’
‘The immigration team is composed of sufficient lawyers, who always provide accurate answers in a timely manner.’
‘All individuals we have dealt with are professional and reactive, demonstrating a very good knowledge of immigration laws.’
‘The team is very knowledgeable about all immigration matters. I have found their advice very comprehensive and timely.’
Key clients
Queen Margaret University
University of Edinburgh
Teleperformance Ltd
TalentScotland
Scotrail Trains Ltd
Employment > Pensions Tier 2
While pension trustees form the bulk of Brodies LLP’s client roster, the team also receives instructions from employers, public sector pension funds and councils. Edinburgh-based practice head Juliet Bayne handles defined benefit and defined contribution pension schemes encompassing both the public and private sectors; her experience reflects the team’s recent workload, including corporate transactions and restructurings, transfers to master trusts and liability management exercises, among others. Jennifer Crawford, who was promoted to senior associate in November 2022, is experienced in advising both sponsoring employers and trustee boards. Former legal director Mairi Carlin left in April 2022 to work in-house.Practice head(s):
Juliet Bayne
Other key lawyers:
Jennifer Crawford; Maureen Burns
Testimonials
‘Brodies has always been able to navigate issues, and provide solid advice to trustees. They have an established and respected offering.’
‘Juliet Bayne and Jennifer Crawford are very professional and interact well with other trustee advisers to ensure integrated and quality advice for their clients.’
‘Responsive team with a wealth of knowledge.’
‘Prompt and efficient communicators.’
‘Extremely professional, always willing to explain technical legal pension matters in an understandable way, and empathetic when dealing with difficult and distressing matters.’
‘Juliet Bayne is extremely knowledgeable and very highly respected within the pensions sphere. Honesty, integrity and a strong ethic to do the right thing for a scheme’s members shine through.’
‘Jennifer Crawford has a strong desire to do the best for scheme members.’
‘Juliet Bayne and her team were immensely helpful in guiding us through the details of the applicable regulations, especially during the period when the pension laws in the UK were undergoing major amendments.’
Key clients
Trustee of the Menzies Pension Fund
Yoon & Yang LLC
Trustees of the Howden Group Pension Plan
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland
Trustee of the Berry UK Pension Scheme
Trustees of the Aviagen Pension and Life Assurance Scheme
Strathclyde Students’ Union
Trustees of the AES Ballylumford Pension Scheme
Trustees of The Morris & Spottiswood Pension Scheme
The Morris & Spottiswood Employees’ Pension Scheme
Axis Capital Holdings Limited
Work highlights
- Advised the trustee of the Menzies Pension Fund on the £763m City Takeover Code acquisition of the scheme’s sponsoring employer.
- Advised Korean law firm, Yoon & Yang LLC, on a group restructuring and sale involving the exit of a UK subsidiary of Korean giant, Doosan Enerbility Co. Limited, from a defined benefit pension scheme.
- Advised the trustee of Smith Anderson & Company Limited 1973 Staff Retirement Benefits Scheme on GMP equalisation issues.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2
Brodies LLP has established a reputable restructuring and insolvency practice, advising a broad range of notable clients spanning funders, insolvency practitioners, solicitor firms, corporate clients, and public sector and regulatory bodies. Lucy McCann leads the contentious offering and is regularly instructed on both corporate and personal insolvency matters; she is well versed in representing clients from the sheriff courts to the Supreme Court. Peter Kelly is the main figure on the non-contentious side, primarily advising funds in relation to the purchase of debt and securities, but also acting on workouts. Real estate specialist Elaine Petterson is a key figure, advising on Scots aspects of cross-border restructurings, while legal director Shirley Li-Ting has strong skills in a wide array of sectors including energy, leisure and retail. Jamie Nellany has developed a solid reputation, particularly focusing on the transactional aspects of distressed companies.Practice head(s):
Lucy McCann; Peter Kelly
Other key lawyers:
Elaine Petterson; Shirley Li-Ting; Jamie Nellany
Testimonials
‘Brodies has an incredibly strong Scottish practice, and the restructuring team can call upon the specialisms throughout the wider practice as required. You always know that Brodies will help you find a solution and provide good advice.’
‘Lucy McCann is the head of restructuring. She is always available to discuss ongoing assignments, a very pleasant and capable operator. Strong in restructuring litigation work and quickly gets to the heart of the issue.’
‘Jamie Nellany has a wide remit that includes corporate transactions as well as restructuring work. He brings strong inter-personal skills and is very reliable.’
‘On high-profile transactions run to a tight timetable, you would go to Jamie Nellany and trust him to get things done.’
‘Shirley Li-Ting is very experienced and is never phased by whatever challenge is provided.’
‘In-depth knowledge and experience of dealing with insolvency and restructuring scenarios across the whole team, great ability to react quickly to large, complex and contentious situations.’
‘Shirley Li-Ting is very proactive and commercial in a great number of restructuring scenarios.’
‘The partners and staff are knowledgeable in their fields and are available to discuss matters as they arise. As a full-service law firm, there is always someone on hand to assist with queries.’
Work highlights
Insurance > Medical negligence: defender Tier 2
Brodies LLP‘s full-service medical negligence practice advises clients on claims across various specialist areas, including ophthalmology, dentistry, product liability and social care. The firm has a growing cosmetics and aesthetics claims practice and is particularly skilled at representing governmental and private sector clients in national medical inquiries. Laura McMillan and Lynn Livesey now lead the team following the departure of former practice head Duncan Mawby to BTO Solicitors LLP in 2022. McMillan, an experienced clinical negligence solicitor advocate, acts for private healthcare clients on contentious and non-contentious matters, while associate Livesey advises insurers and private healthcare clients on fatal accident inquiries and cosmetic surgery cases. Associate Kate Donachie is another key individual.Practice head(s):
Laura McMillan; Lynn Livesey
Other key lawyers:
Kate Donachie; Lara Graham; Ellen Andrew
Testimonials
‘Practical and commercial advice, delivering great client outcomes from a team with a sound knowledge of the sector.’
‘A team of very able and focussed individuals. The service they provide to clients is outstanding, since they are skilled at identifying key issues, diligent in pursuing those (for example by identifying leading experts and instructing expert evidence) and giving measured and robust advice to clients about their options.’
‘Their use of technology is appropriate while never losing sight of the human dimension, which most clients value.’
‘Laura MacMillan and Kate Donachie are both exceptional in the amount of effort they put into case preparation, in their grasp of detail, both factual and legal, attention to clients’ needs, and in having a common-sense approach to resolving problems.’
‘The members of the team have great communication and knowledge of defending medical negligence claims.’
‘Brodies provides a great service to their clients, they respond to you quickly. I would like to give a special mention to the following: Lara Graham, Lynn Livesey and Ellen Andrew.’
Key clients
Association of Optometrists
Scottish Government
RSA
RPC
Scottish Care
Work highlights
- Instructed by the Scottish Government to act in relation to the Infected Blood Inquiry. The inquiry is a UK-wide public inquiry investigating how men, women and children treated by the NHS were given infected blood and infected blood products.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Projects Tier 2
‘One of the largest practices, if not the largest in Scotland’, Brodies LLP acts on the full lifespan of PPP and Private Finance Initiative (PFI) projects across the UK and Ireland, servicing a diverse range of major public and private clients. The practice is well known for its market-leading public law, finance and procurement expertise, and head of infrastructure Drysdale GrahamPractice head(s):
Drysdale Graham; Michael Stoneham
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team’s considerable experience in this field allows it to draw on that experience to shape and direct focussed advice with realistic, workable solutions.’
‘There does not seem to be much that they have not encountered or seen before, allowing a pragmatic approach to difficult issues and value for money advice.’
‘Brodies experience representing various parties within the construction contract (DBDA) ensures the ability to give sound advice tailored to the client’s needs.’
‘Stuart Murray’s knowledge of the form of contract is second to none, providing outstanding support to his clients.’
‘Brodies LLP are an excellent practice to work with, they give a very professional no fuss service and do not waste time discussing non issues.’
‘Stuart Murray has an outstanding approach to client relationships and delivers solutions to complex investment projects and is a great person to work with.’
‘The team act in a very professional way and have a high level of expertise. Their understanding and recognition of commercial challenges is largely unmatched by other firms, therefore solutions are found quickly.’
‘Stuart Murray’s good-natured approach coupled with his expertise and sector knowledge means that he is an automatic go-to for advice.’
Key clients
Scottish Water
Equitix
Hub South East Scotland Limited
Falkirk Council
Robertson Facilities Management Limited
Nord LB
European Investment Bank
Perth & Kinross Council
Dumfries and Galloway Council
Aberdeenshire Council
Galliford Try Investments Limited
Robertson Construction
WCHS DBFM Co Limited
Nord Landesbank Gironzentrale
North Lanarkshire Council
Work highlights
- Advising Falkirk Council on its bundled PFI schools contract (the first to be executed in Scotland) as it nears the end of the concession period.
- Appointed as sole legal advisor to Hub South East Scotland Limited on its £853m social infrastructure programme as well as advising a number of local government, investor and contractor clients on operational projects across all five of Scotland’s Hub Territories.
- Acting for Nord LB, Bank of Ireland and European Investment Bank in its delivery of the €250m Irish Community Nursing Units PPP Project.
Public sector > Health Tier 2
Brodies LLP's healthcare practice demonstrates considerable expertise across the full spectrum of healthcare-related matters with particular strength in handling complex regulatory work and major national inquiries. This leads to regular high-profile instructions, covering contentious and non-contentious issues, from a wide range of clients, including governmental bodies and local authorities. The ‘exceptional’ practice is led by public law specialist Jackie McGuire, who advises clients on various healthcare issues; former co-head David Gallagher (sector-specific regulatory and commercial work) left the firm in April 2023 to work independently. Other key individuals include experienced litigator Christine O’Neill and Stuart Murray, who routinely handles healthcare-related infrastructure work.Practice head(s):
Jackie McGuire
Other key lawyers:
Stuart Murray; Christine O’Neill; Jamie Dunn; Laura Macmillan; Kate Donachie
Testimonials
‘Having dealt with Brodies LLP on a number of matters, what makes us return to them for health procurement is the exceptional understanding of the specialist segment they are working within and as such, advice relating to our queries or concerns is first class. Not being legal nor procurement law experts means we have to turn to those that are, and they make the complicated legal language easy for everyone to understand, enabling us to digest the information and take the appropriate course of action through an informed process.’
‘Jamie Dunn is outstanding to deal with. Always very clear and articulate in his advice, sees our point of view and helps us navigate the procurement regulations. It may seem small but attention to detail and hitting timelines are key for us, he always delivers and we never have to chase him for follow-up meetings or agreed actions.’
‘A team of very able and focused individuals. The service is outstanding; they are skilled at identifying key issues, diligent in pursuing those (for example by identifying leading experts and instructing expert evidence) and give measured and robust advice to clients about their options.’
‘Laura Macmillan and Kate Donachie are both exceptional in the amount of effort they put into case preparation, in their grasp of detail, both factual and legal, attention to clients’ needs, and in having a common-sense approach to resolving problems.’
‘Strong cross-functional teams of experts to deliver on complex transactions – knowledgeable, balancing risks and commercial requirements – responsive and adaptable to emerging issues.’
‘All individuals have been professional, responsive and experts in their field.’
‘The team acts in a very professional way and has a high level of expertise. Their understanding and recognition of commercial challenges is largely unmatched by other firms therefore solutions are found quickly.’
‘Stuart Murray is our lead contact within Brodies. We have worked with him for a number of years and his good-natured approach coupled with his expertise and sector knowledge means that he is our automatic “go-to” for advice.’
Key clients
Scottish Government – Infected Blood Inquiry
Nord LB, Bank of Ireland, European Investment Bank
University of St Andrews
Professional Standards Authority (PSA)
TC BioPharm Limited
Scottish Qualifications Authority, Scottish Care and others (Covid-19 public inquiries)
Leucid Bio Limited
Robertson Facilities Management Limited
University of Swansea
EquiSisk Consortium
Work highlights
- Advised Nord LB, Bank of Ireland and European Investment Bank on a €250m community nursing unit PPP project.
- Instructed by the Scottish Government to act on its behalf in relation to the Infected Blood Inquiry. The inquiry is important to the Scottish Government because it is a core participant, and the inquiry will examine the role of government in setting standards for and overseeing the work of the NHS.
- Acting for Leucid Bio in drafting and negotiating commercial terms relating to the manufacture and supply of a clinical stage cell engineered cell therapy product for its clinical trials.
Real estate > Environment Tier 2
With Philip Hunter heading up Brodies LLP‘ environment practice, work at the transactional intersection constitutes a significant area of strength; his expertise is a reflection of the team’s workload, which includes issues pertaining to the management of waste, water pollution and contaminated land, as well as environmental impact assessments, decommissioning projects and low emission zones. Niall McLean is an essential contact for contentious instructions, although is also well-placed to handle environmental due diligence exercises in the non-contentious space.Practice head(s):
Philip Hunter
Other key lawyers:
Neil Collar; Niall McLean; Sarah-Jane McArthur; George Sismey-Durrant
Testimonials
‘The practice has an exemplary ESG service and are always willing to get involved.’
‘They are always open to exploring potential synergies to make client interactions more effective.’
‘Philip Hunter is committed to environmental and climate law and is an expert voice in this area.’
‘Brodies have proved responsive, client-focused and extremely knowledgeable. They show a real strength in depth with respect to Scots law matters, and we have had an excellent experience working with their strong lawyers.’
‘Philip Hunter shows great calmness and composure in managing rapidly changing transactions, and is someone who you would always trust in challenging moments.’
‘George Sismey-Durrant has excelled in challenging situations a number of times. Someone with a bright future.’
Key clients
Clyde Gateway Developments Limited
Scottish Environment Protection Agency
City of Edinburgh Council
Shockingly Fresh
Highlands and Islands Enterprise
Falkirk Council
Indaver NV/ Indaver Ness Services Limited
Orbital Marine Power
Ikigai Energy
Mowi
Cooke Aquaculture
Orkney Island Council
Work highlights
- Advising Clyde Gateway on a geothermal project for low carbon heating.
- Advising Edinburgh City Council on the implementation of low emission zones.
- Advised Indaver UK on the acquisition of BIP Chemical Holdings Limited and BIP Environmental Limited.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 3
With real estate finance expert Chris DunPractice head(s):
Chris Dun
Other key lawyers:
Jackie McGuire; Alasdair Fleming; Fiona McLeod; Jenna Monteith
Testimonials
‘Depth of knowledge and experience.’
‘Excellent team that is quick to respond to any issue.’
‘Jenna Monteith is highly able and really understands how the sector works.’
‘The team at Brodies have a wide range of skills and a reputation for reliable advice across the wide spectrum of social housing issues. They are innovative in their thinking and offer prompt, personable and exceptionally professional tailored advice in a timely fashion.’
‘Fiona McLeod has an excellent reputation in the social housing sector. She has delivered clear and concise advice around our compliance and tenancy management.’
‘Fiona McLeod is personable and professional at all times.’
‘Straight-forward communication with pragmatic advice provided, working collaboratively to ensure all parties are in agreement.’
‘Chris Dun is the most experienced and capable lawyer on social housing banking matters in Scotland.’
Key clients
The Wheatley Housing Group
Hillcrest Homes
River Clyde Homes
Kingdom Housing Association Limited
Link Group Limited
LAR Housing Trust
Shettleston Housing Association
Scottish Housing Regulator
Stirling Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Work highlights
- Advising the Scottish Housing Regulator as well as a number of registered social landlords on the implications of the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) Act 2022, which allows ministers to freeze rent increases and impose a moratorium on evictions in certain circumstances.
- Advised Cairngorms Business Partnership Limited on the development of an innovative guarantee model designed to support the delivery of new affordable housing targeting employees in the Cairngorm area.
- Acted for The Royal Bank of Scotland plc in connection with the provision of increased loan facilities of £117m to River Clyde Homes, including long term loan and revolving credit facilities.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 3
Clubs, individuals and corporate organisations turn to Brodies LLP cross-disciplinary team for its wide-ranging expertise in sports law matters, ranging from transactions and commercial contracts to planning, data management and litigation. Edinburgh-based practice head Andy Nolan is often involved in commercial and IP matters for individuals and businesses; his recent work has encompassed the boxing, golf and football sectors. Seasoned litigator Ross Campbell (Glasgow), promoted to senior associate in November 2022, serves as a regular port of call in court hearings and arbitrations for various clubs and corporate entities.Practice head(s):
Andy Nolan
Other key lawyers:
Grant Campbell; Ross Campbell; Rachel Lawson
Testimonials
‘Brodies’ work is of an extremely high standard. They are also extremely commercial in their approach and take the time to understand our business.’
‘Brodies are able to service all of our needs in one place.’
‘For commercial contracts and data issues related to our sports loyalty business, we use Grant Campbell. His advice is pragmatic, commercial and very user-friendly.’
‘Rachel Lawson has advised us on a number of commercial contracts as well as data protection and consumer protection matters. She is thorough, efficient and very easy to deal with.’
Key clients
Cabot Developments
Engel & Volkers Hotel Fund
Marine and Lawn
Work highlights
- Advised Marine and Lawn – a US-based investor in luxury hotels and resorts – on hospitality agreements with The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews to host the 150th Open at St Andrews in 2022.
- Advised Canadian Golf Resort developers Cabot Developments on the acquisition of the Castle Stuart Golf Hotel and Resort on the Moray Firth.
- Advised the sponsor of a leading Glasgow-based football club in the Scottish Premier League regarding the naming rights to the club’s stadium.
Brodies LLP > Firm Profile
Top 50 UK law firm Brodies LLP is the largest law firm headquartered in Scotland measured by income, directory rankings, and lawyer numbers.
Our approach to business today is influenced by our history, which dates back nearly 300 years to the time of the Scottish Enlightenment. That approach recognises the individual knowledge and expertise of our colleagues and the Enlightened Thinking that they deliver. That thought has a reach extending to all corners of the Scottish economy, and globally.
With more than 100 partners and nearly 800 colleagues working across offices in Aberdeen, Brussels, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London, we work with our clients in the following core business areas: arbitration; banking and financial services; employment; energy (renewables and oil & gas); litigation; M&A, private equity and IP; real estate; pensions and benefits; personal and family and tax.
Brodies opened its first international arm in the UAE in 2023, with the launch of Abu Dhabi-based Brodies Middle East LLP.
Main areas of practice
Corporate & Commercial:
The team advises corporates, public bodies and business owners and has exceptional credentials across a broad range of specialisms – private equity; general M&A; cross-border transactions; regulation and government work; investment funds; public/private partnerships, projects and construction; IP, IT and outsourcing; corporate tax; employment and immigration; employee benefits and pensions. Additionally, there are specialists within the team who focus on the energy sector.
Banking & Finance:
Advising organisations across Scotland, the UK and internationally, the team has significant in-house experience with large financial institutions, and deals with complex and high value transactions, new product development, legal risk management and regulatory compliance. The team has particular expertise in renewables and other energy financing, including oil & gas; shipping finance; securitisation and capital markets; funds financing; re-banking; insolvency and restructuring; corporate borrowing; green finance; asset finance; portfolio sales and purchases; and social housing and care home transactions. Clients include UK and international financial institutions, alternative lenders, funds and corporates operating in all sectors from renewable energy and healthcare to food & drink and real estate.
Real Estate:
Brodies has the largest and most diversified real estate legal team in Scotland, with specialists who operate in every sector of the property market. Expertise includes investment, development and finance; commercial, residential and mixed-use development; out-of-town and high-street retail; leisure; hotels; licensing; land and rural business; land diversification; urban regeneration and construction; outsourcing projects; planning and property litigation.
Litigation & Dispute Resolution:
The firm has one of Scotland’s largest litigation practices. This includes ten solicitor advocates, who appear regularly in the court of session and sheriff courts throughout Scotland. Specialisms include commercial and contractual disputes; health and safety; compliance; insurance; professional negligence; clinical negligence; professional discipline and regulation; risk management; intellectual property and IT disputes; property litigation and alternative dispute resolution, including adjudication, mediation, international arbitration and expert witness. In addition, Brodies has a wealth of expertise in public law and regulation (with extensive experience of parliamentary, local authority, freedom of information and human rights issues), enhanced by expertise in competition law.
Private Client/Personal & Family:
The firm’s private client and family team is known for its core work in estate planning; wills; trusts; tax; divorce; child law; asset protection; charities and executries, in multi-jurisdictional areas, as well as for developing a variety of trust solutions. Additionally, three of our private client lawyers are dual-qualified in Scots law and the law of England of Wales which allow them to advise clients with cross-border interests in matters of wills and estate planning, powers of attorney, probate and estate administration, trusts and succession planning.The firm’s family practice includes 26 accreditations across the team, including 9 family law mediators, 12 family law specialists, 5 child law specialists, 2 solicitor advocates, and a family law arbitrator.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
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Chair | Christine O'Neill KC | christine.oneill@brodies.com | |
Managing partner | Nick Scott | nick.scott@brodies.com | |
Rural business | Clive Phillips | clive.phillips@brodies.com | |
Banking and finance | Bruce Stephen | bruce.stephen@brodies.com | |
Banking and finance | Peter Kelly | peter.kelly@brodies.com | |
Charities | Kenneth Pinkerton | kenneth.pinkerton@brodies.com | |
Commercial litigation | Joyce Cullen | joyce.cullen@brodies.com | |
Commercial litigation | Iain Rutherford | iain.rutherford@brodies.com | |
Commercial litigation | Stephen Goldie | stephen.goldie@brodies.com | |
EU and competition | Charles Livingstone | charles.livingstone@brodies.com | |
Construction | Louise Shiels | louise.shiels@brodies.com | |
Construction | Alistair McLean | alistair.mclean@brodies.com | |
Corporate | Neil Burgess | neil.burgess@brodies.com | |
Corporate restructuring and insolvency | Peter Kelly | peter.kelly@brodies.com | |
Corporate restructuring and insolvency | Lucy McCann | lucy.mccann@brodies.com | |
Commercial services | Grant Campbell | grant.campbell@brodies.com | |
Crime: Fraud | Paul Marshall | paul.marshall@brodies.com | |
Debt recovery | Iain Rutherford | iain.rutherford@brodies.com | |
Dispute resolution and litigation | Stephen Goldie | stephen.goldie@brodies.com | |
Dispute resolution and litigation | Joyce Cullen | joyce.cullen@brodies.com | |
Dispute resolution and litigation | Iain Rutherford | iain.rutherford@brodies.com | |
Education | Niall McLean | niall.mclean@brodies.com | |
Education | Brenda Scott | brenda.scott@brodies.com | |
Employment | Tony Hadden | tony.hadden@brodies.com | |
Employment | Joan Cradden | joan.cradden@brodies.com | |
Immigration | Elaine McIlroy | elaine.mcilroy@brodies.com | |
Pensions | Juliet Bayne | juliet.bayne@brodies.com | |
Renewables | Keith Patterson | keith.patterson@brodies.com | |
Renewables | Kirsty Macpherson | kirsty.macpherson@brodies.com | |
Family | Shaun George | shaun.george@brodies.com | |
Health | Jackie McGuire | jackie.mcguire@brodies.com | |
Health and safety | Clare Bone | clare.bone@brodies.com | |
Health and safety | Laura McMillan | laura.mcmillan@brodies.com | |
Health and safety | Duncan MacLean | duncan.maclean@brodies.com | |
Health and safety | Victoria Anderson | victoria.anderson@brodies.com | |
Insurance | Duncan MacLean | duncan.maclean@brodies.com | |
Insurance | Alan Calvert | alan.calvert@brodies.com | |
Insurance | Carly Forrest | carly.forrest@brodies.com | |
International arbitration | Ken MacDonald | ken.macdonald@brodies.com | |
International arbitration | Iain Rutherford | iain.rutherford@brodies.com | |
International arbitration | Jared Oyston | jared.oyston@brodies.com | |
IP | Grant Campbell | grant.campbell@brodies.com | |
IP | Martin Sloan | martin.sloan@brodies.com | |
IP | Iain Rutherford | iain.rutherford@brodies.com | |
Life sciences | Grant Strachan | grant.strachan@brodies.com | |
Medical negligence (defender) | Laura McMillan | laura.mcmillan@brodies.com | |
Media and entertainment | Martin Sloan | martin.sloan@brodies.com | |
Oil and gas | Clare Munro | clare.munro@brodies.com | |
Oil and gas | Greg May | greg.may@brodies.com | |
Personal injury (defender) | Carly Forrest | carly.forrest@brodies.com | |
Personal injury (defender) | Laura McMillan | laura.mcmillan@brodies.com | |
Planning and environment | Neil Collar | neil.collar@brodies.com | |
Planning and environment | Phil Hunter | phil.hunter@brodies.com | |
Planning and environment | Elaine Farquharson-Black | efb@brodies.com | |
Private client | Alan Barr | alan.barr@brodies.com | |
Private client | Susanne Batchelor | susanne.batchelor@brodies.com | |
Private client | Mark Stewart | mark.stewart@brodies.com | |
Projects | Stuart Murray | stuart.murray@brodies.com | |
Property litigation | Matt Farrell | matthew.farrell@brodies.com | |
Property litigation | Stephen Goldie | stephen.goldie@brodies.com | |
Parliamentary and public affairs | Christine O'Neill KC | christine.oneill@brodies.com | |
Government and business | Niall McLean | niall.mclean@brodies.com | |
Government and business | Jackie McGuire | jackie.mcguire@brodies.com | |
Procurement | Christine O'Neill KC | christine.oneill@brodies.com | |
Real estate | Johane Murray | johane.murray@brodies.com | |
Real estate | Richard Whyte | richard.whyte@brodies.com | |
Real estate | Tracey Menzies | tracey.menzies@brodies.com | |
Shipping | Duncan MacLean | duncan.maclean@brodies.com | |
Shipping | Malcolm Mackay | malcolm.mackay@brodies.com | |
Sport | Andy Nolan | andy.nolan@brodies.com | |
Tax | Alan Barr | alan.barr@brodies.com | |
Tax | Isobel d'Inverno | isobel.dinverno@brodies.com | |
Tax | Karen Davidson | karen.davidson@brodies.com | |
Technology and outsourcing | Grant Campbell | grant.campbell@brodies.com | |
Technology and outsourcing | Martin Sloan | martin.sloan@brodies.com | |
Transport | Karen Hamilton | karen.hamilton@brodies.com | |
Transport | Duncan MacLean | duncan.maclean@brodies.com |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Andrew Askew Blain | Andrew acts for rural landowners and tenants in a range of rural… | View Profile |
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Mr Tom Boulton-Jones | Tom provides advice on a wide range of corporate law matters, including… | View Profile |
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Douglas Crawford | Doug has over 25 years’ experience in leading and negotiating Scottish, UK… | View Profile |
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Martin Ewan | Martin is an experienced corporate lawyer, having practised for over 21 years,… | View Profile |
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Elaine Farquharson-Black | View Profile | |
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Mr Shaun George | Shaun has practised family law for more than 30 years. He heads… | View Profile |
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Leigh Gould | Leigh advises Personal clients on succession planning; the passing on and protection… | View Profile |
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Malcolm Gunnyeon | Malcolm is a litigator with over 20 years’ experience in the Scottish… | View Profile |
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Fiona Herrell | Fiona provides commercial, strategic and pragmatic advice on all aspects of employment… | View Profile |
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Sonia Love | Sonia has over 20 years’ experience in the oil and gas sector,… | View Profile |
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Kenneth MacDonald | Ken is one of Aberdeen’s most respected business dispute lawyers with over… | View Profile |
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Malcolm Mackay | Malcolm has advised clients and represented clients in court for over 20… | View Profile |
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Greg May | Greg has 26 years’ experience in the Oil & Gas sector and… | View Profile |
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Jenna McCosh | Jenna deals with a range of commercial property transactions throughout Scotland including… | View Profile |
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Rhona McFarlane | Rhona has worked in the oil & gas sector for over 10… | View Profile |
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Dr Tracey Menzies | Tracey has over 20 years’ experience across the full range of real… | View Profile |
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Ms Susie Mountain | Susie is based in Aberdeen, and is well placed to advise on… | View Profile |
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Clare Munro | Clare has worked in the Oil & Gas sector for over 20… | View Profile |
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Clive Philips | Clive heads the Rural Business team at Brodies and acts for a… | View Profile |
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Clive Phillips | Clive heads the Rural Business team at Brodies and acts for a… | View Profile |
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Neal Richardson | Neal is a Partner in the Banking & Finance team at Brodies.… | View Profile |
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Mark Stewart | Mark heads up the firm’s Personal and Family Practice area. His principal… | View Profile |
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Bryan Wilson | Bryan is a partner in Brodies oil & gas team and has… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of partners : 115 :Legal Briefings
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Robust action proposed to improve protection for whistleblowers
Efforts to provide more protection and encouragement to whistleblowers in the UK have taken a significant step forward this year – a stark reminder that now is the time for businesses to review their own procedures and policies. -
The future of mediation in Scottish civil justice
Over the past year, the appetite to make changes to the Scottish civil justice system has increased, particularly in the case of mediation. Although at an early stage, there are various legislative reforms being proposed that give mediation a more prominent position in all civil litigation matters. But what exactly are these proposed changes, and … -
Use of electronic signatures
With COVID-19 leading to many people working remotely, organisations need to think about how documents and contracts can be signed and concluded. While some projects will slow or stall, many routine contracts will be up for renewal in the next few months, and other transactions will be due to complete. The logistics of signing in … -
Class actions in the UK: preparing for a changing landscape
If you were asked to name a well-known example of a class action, the first one to spring to mind might be Hollywood’s Erin Brockovich, based on the true story of a Californian community that claimed for damages against an energy corporation for suspected groundwater contamination, and secured a multi-million-dollar settlement. Although the likes of … -
Cybercrime: tackling the many faces of a growing threat
2020 tested the resilience of organisations in ways that were unprecedented and, with further restrictions on movement imposed at the start of the new year, continued disruption seems inevitable for the foreseeable future. For many, continued homeworking – and the challenges that brings – is likely to be an everyday feature of life for some … -
Litigation funding for claims – a growing investment market
Would you invest your own money in the outcome of someone else’s court battle? It intuitively sounds risky, but the market for litigation funding across the globe is booming. In the UK alone, the top 15 funders reportedly have almost £2bn of assets under their control, and with the growth of potentially lucrative class action … -
Developments in defamation: Scotland and England
The law of defamation in Scotland is due to be reformed. Although there are similarities in defamation law in Scotland and England, in-house lawyers should be aware of upcoming developments, particularly where there are cross-border considerations. -
Flexible working: preparing for the future
In September 2021, the UK government’s consultation document ‘Making Flexible Working the Default’ stated that: -
Demystifying international arbitration
This year features as an important one for arbitration in the UK with Scotland hosting the largest international arbitration gathering in the world between 18 to 21 September. The International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), accredited as an NGO by the United Nations, is holding its bi-annual conference in Edinburgh, a little over ten years … -
New competition rules for distribution arrangements
On 1 June 2022 new rules came into force in both the EU and UK concerning exemptions from competition law rules for so-called ‘vertical’ agreements. -
US data privacy framework approval moves a step closer
President Biden has signed an executive order introducing new safeguards that seek to address the concerns raised by the European Court of Justice in the Schrems II decision on transfers of personal data to the US. The UK and European Commission will now commence the next stages of their adequacy assessment processes. In this update … -
The growing popularity of climate litigation – trends, impact and what’s coming down the track
Climate litigation has become an increasingly popular tool for a diverse range of groups promoting their interests in relation to climate change issues. According to a recent report from the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, the cumulative number of climate change-related cases worldwide has more than doubled since 2015 to over … -
Balancing duties in litigation
Litigators’ duties It is well-known that lawyers have duties to their clients: a lawyer must seek to follow their client’s instructions and act in their best interests. In a dispute, that means presenting the client’s case in a compelling way and pursuing the strategy most likely to result in a positive outcome. But the duty … -
Scottish banking transactions – national security issues and light at the end of the tunnel
All things being equal, Scottish banking transactions pose no greater a risk to national security than their English counterparts. And yet, how Scots law share security is taken has placed Scottish banking transactions centre of the net cast by the National Security and Investment Act 2021 (NSIA) in a way not experienced by banking transactions …
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Corporate and commercial > EU and competition
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Crime: fraud
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation
- Dispute resolution > Debt recovery
- Employment
- Employment > Health and safety
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Finance > Investment funds
- Insurance > Personal injury: defender
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Private client > Agriculture and estates
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Family
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and executries
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy (excluding oil and gas)
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Oil and gas
- Public sector > Education
- Public sector > Local government
- Public sector > Parliamentary and public affairs
- Real estate > Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Planning
- Real estate > Property litigation
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment
- Transport