Education Tier 1

Fielding 'experts in the field', the team at Browne Jacobson LLP is 'able to advise from a position of experience' and is a key name for further education providers and education trusts for complex corporate governance and strategic board issues, employment work and contentious matters. Nick MacKenzie leads the practice, which also includes Richard Freeth, who has 'first-class knowledge of a wide range of education issues'. Associates Lydia Michaelson-Yeates, Hayley O’Sullivan and Philip Wood are also highly recommended.

Intellectual property Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP impresses with its 'excellent advisers and real depth to the team' and its strong client roster of household names and brands across multiple industries. The team is led by Mark Daniels, who specialises in contentious patent, trade mark, database right and copyright cases. Cerryg Jones is a well-respected litigator, handling complex and high-value claims involving trade marks and designs. Director Bonita Trimmer stands out for her extensive expertise in brands and design disputes, while senior associate Nick Smee is ' personable and professional' and recommended for non-contentious work including advising on technology agreements and patent licences.

Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has one of the largest national defendant practices in the UK supporting clients in the public and private sectors. The excellent team specialises in complex and high-value cases where there are serious brain injuries and spinal injuries as well as group litigation and wrongful birth cases. Complex employer's liability claims, novel vicarious liability claims and disease claims are all at the cornerstone of its practice. Sports is another rapidly growing claims area for the practice and Kevin Lawson is a known name for his work in this area. The practice has an enviable reputation for its work in the health and social care sector and also in the adult social care sector. Bridget Tatham has been working with a growing number of care home providers. In addition the practice has been on the panel of Resolution since its inception and represents other bodies such as independent healthcare providers and medical malpractice insurers. In addition the nimble team has specialists who deal with inquests. Sarah White is another notable practitioner who is highly recommended for her work in the defence of clinical negligence claims. Newly promoted partner Matthew Harpin and rising star Emma Rees are also well-regarded.

Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP is strong in M&A, private equity and growth capital investments, and capital markets transactions. In addition, general commercial work is a bedrock of the practice. Clients of the firm include sponsors, global corporates and institutional funders. The team includes Mike Jackson and senior associate Kirk Glenn, who acted for Command Line Software Limited (trading as Impala) on an $11m investment round. Roger Birchall and Michael Stace are other ley corporate partners. On the commercial law side, Richard Nicholas and Ryan Harrison advise clients on matters such as outsourcing, contracts for the sale and purchase of goods and licensing.

Corporate tax Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP has a diverse tax practice, which is active in UK and cross-border M&A, real estate transactions, employee and management share incentives, and EIS and SEIS. Its team also represents clients in tax disputes arising from corporate transactions. In 2019, practice head Andrew Noble (who is dual-qualified as a solicitor and chartered tax adviser) worked with the corporate team to advise the selling shareholders of TCL Holdings (Parent) Limited on the disposal of the business to Idverde, and also the re-investment of certain managers in the buying entity.

Employment Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP’s employment team does work for both public and private sector clients. It has a collection of specialisms across the commercial, education and insurance sectors. It also boasts considerable expertise in the healthcare sector through three employment partners locally who are well placed to advise not only provider hospital trusts but also CCGs, ICSs and the independent healthcare market. James Tait heads the employment team in Birmingham while Jacqui Atkinson heads the national employment healthcare team. Helen Badger mostly acts for public sector clients including the NHS and clients in the education sector. Bridget Prosser joined the team at the end of September 2019 from Capsticks LLP - she has considerable experience of advising key NHS and third sector clients and various crime agencies on complex employment matters.

Health Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP is singled out for its work advising NHS bodies on strategic and corporate mergers and reconfigurations; the group also has a strong client roster of private healthcare providers. The practice also undertakes NHS governance work, clinical negligence claims, social care issues, inquests and employment mandates. Employment partner Jacqui Atkinson leads the practice alongside Neil Ward, who chairs the national inquest practice. In the commercial health space, Clare Auty and Jonathan Hayden support CCG and NHS providers on healthcare contracting projects and social care transactions. Sarah White specialises in defending substantial clinical negligence actions.

Health and safety Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP acts for many private sector organisations in relation to health and safety accidents. As a general regulatory practice it also advises on health and safety matters as they arise from food safety, environmental breaches, the care sector and road traffic work. The department has been active in advising corporate clients directly on their policies and documentation, fatal accident protocols and on the management of bespoke risks such as legionella, asbestos and chemicals. It also advises a significant number of public sector clients and clients in the education sector. Rather unusually the group also prosecutes health and safety cases for local authorities and fire authorities. Nottingham-based Andrew Hopkin heads the team that includes Rachel Lyne.

IT and telecoms Tier 2

Midlands powerhouse Browne Jacobson LLP has a notable IT practice, which is led by Richard Nicholas, who is a specialist in technology and outsourcing deals, cloud computing issues, digital law and data protection mandates. The practice has a high-profile client base comprised of leading household names in the financial services, retail, energy, technology and public sectors.

Banking and finance Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP excels in a wide variety of banking matters, but its main strengths are in leveraged finance, real estate finance, asset-based lending and health sector finance transactions. One notable practitioner is Paul Ray, who acts for UK and international corporate borrowers, banks and other lenders. Also recommended are Emma Hinton and Paul Hill.

Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP covers the full range of matters. Recently it has increasingly been focusing on governance issues and on the establishment of family and corporate foundations. The team operates nationally with Catherine Rustomji at the helm. Rustomji advises charities, not-for-profit organisations, social enterprises, charity trustees and individuals wishing to establish charities. She operates across the health, education, arts, public and private sectors. Rustomji advises organisations, community groups, schools, colleges, churches, welfare and professional associations. Clare Auty has specialist knowledge of trading charities in the health and social care sector.

Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 3

At Browne Jacobson LLP, practice head Dominic Swift is a commercial property specialist, with an emphasis on procurement issues in the context of land transactions; he also handles complex regeneration projects. Zo Hoida continues to be active in high-profile regeneration projects for local and central government clients,while Brian Hession is an investment-focused partner handling corporate real estate project management matters.

Property litigation Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP has particular depth of experience acting for retailers in lease renewals and high-value dilapidation claims. The group also represents a number of developers, local authorities, public sector clients and insurers. Real estate litigation head James Coles joined from George Green LLP in summer 2020; he works with Pamela Shepherd, who focuses on commercial landlord and tenant work, and associate Bradley Roberts, who is recommended for lease renewal portfolio work and property management issues.

Construction Tier 4

The Birmingham-based construction practice at Browne Jacobson LLP is led by 'excellent strategist' Martin Cannon, whose practice includes handling PFI disputes in the health, education, and local government sectors, and acting in claims for major contractors. The team regularly advises funders and developers on construction documents and security provided for large housing developments.

Banking and finance Tier 1

Leveraging its national reach, Browne Jacobson LLP's team predominantly advises large national banks and investors on private equity transactions, property finance, and asset-based lending. Shaun McCabe has notable expertise acting for lenders, investors and borrowers on project financing, refinancing and asset-based lending. Mark Lewis leads the firm's property finance team, which focuses on secured lending. The Nottingham team is part of a larger group in the Midlands, which includes Birmingham-based partner Paul Ray. In a standout matter, the firm advised HSBC on its funding package to facilitate the management buy-out of Tetenal Limited.

Charities and not-for-profit Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's 'personal and dedicated' team has 'exceptional knowledge of the charity sector'. The firm has an impressive nationwide client base and offers clients advice on governance, family and corporate foundations and strategic advice. Catherine Rustomji, who heads up the practice, is currently advising Nottingham Castle Trust on a substantial capital project involving charity and governance issues. Rustomji is a regular speaker at seminars and presentations concerning charities and charity governance.

Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's Nottingham team acts for claimants and defendants in cross-border and domestic disputes encompassing breaches of contract, product liability, professional negligence and breach of restrictive covenant cases. Jonathan Tardif continues to represent clients in high value disputes. In an ongoing matter, he is defending Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust against a class action by staff members relating to working conditions and pay banding. Chloe Poskitt's caseload is broad, however she has particular expertise in cases that involve breaches of restrictive covenants by senior executives. Associate George Petrou advises clients on disputes relating to insolvency proceedings, supplier and consumer arrangements and shareholder agreements, among other areas.

Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's large team in Nottingham leverages the firm's nationwide reach to advise private and public sector clients on all aspects of major real estate projects, including those spanning multiple jurisdictions. 'Fantastic lawyer' Sarah Parkinson has a particularly strong track record of assisting clients with large-scale retail and property developments. Barry Sully specialises in land acquisitions and disposals, joint ventures, urban regeneration projects and mixed-use schemes. In an ongoing highlight, Sully is advising Leicestershire County Council on an urban extension to the town of Lutterworth, comprising 2,750 new homes, two new schools and various other public facilities. Suki Tonks, Robert Wofinden and Gabor Taller are also recommended.

Construction Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's 'highly knowledgeable and efficient' team in Nottingham acts for contractors, consultants and developers in major national and international construction projects. In addition to providing full-service advice on non-contentious matters, it also represents clients in disputes. Michael Sadler, who leads on many of the firm's key mandates, advised an international contractor on its preparation of various construction documents facilitating the procurement of high-quality fit-out works across a range of locations in Europe and Africa. Senior associate Mark Stubbs predominantly advises national contractors and developers on contractual agreements and contentious matters.

Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1

Leveraging its large corporate finance team and network of offices throughout the UK, Browne Jacobson LLP 's 'experienced and commercial' team frequently advises international and domestic companies on acquisitions and disposals, and also acts for private equity firms on their investments and buy-outs. The team is also well-equipped to assist companies with restructurings, governance arrangements, GDPR compliance, IP contracts and a whole range of other commercial matters. In a recent highlight, Gavin Cummings, who specialises in buy-outs and international M&A, advised Bridge Farm Group on its sale to Sundial, a publicly listed Canadian company. Richard Cox focuses predominantly on corporate transactions with a cross-border element. Nigel Blackwell and Mark Hughes have a wealth of experience of private equity investments, including buy-outs, acquisitions and disposals. Paula Dumbill handles commercial agreements for large domestic and international clients, in addition to assisting public and private sector clients with major outsourcing projects. Commercial lawyer Selina Hinchcliffe specialises in IP licensing.

Education Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP works with a client base of multi-academy trusts, faith schools, FE colleges, special schools, universities and local authority-maintained school. Key areas of work include GDPR and data protection advice, joint use arrangements, and providing advice on governance structure, funding and commercial arrangements. Employment law - including executive terminations, restructuring, trade union consultation and disputes, and regulatory issues - is another specialism. Dai Durbridge, who has extensive experience in safeguarding, frontline education matters such as school admissions and exclusions, and in data protection advice, heads the team.

Education: schools Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has a 'palpable depth of understanding across the practice' in relation to education sector matters. Reflective of its market-leading reputation, the firm acts for more than 1300 schools and academies. The team, which is led by Mark Blois, acts on complex merger and restructuring matters for academies and multi-academy-trusts, and also advises schools on safeguarding issues. Adrian Shardlow is particularly noted for his expertise in academy conversions, while Richard Freeth is the key contact for advice on pastoral issues. The group is also skilled in handling sensitive mandates and frequently advises schools on counter-terrorism and abuse matters. The core team is comprised of Nick MacKenzie, Julia Green, and Dai Durbridge. Ian Deakin and London-based Heather Mitchell provide employment law advice.

Public sector

Education: individuals

Health Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP’s health and social care practice is particularly well known for its work on  integrated care systems, service reconfigurations and NHS mergers. Other key areas of work include guidance on serious incidents and inquiries, capital models for the development of  infrastructure and workforce issues. Amanda Callaghan heads the department. Christian Dingwall has extensive experience of NHS transactions and projects; Rebecca Fitzpatrick leads the mental health and social care advisory team; Gerard Hanratty heads the health sector team; Victoria Thourgood is head of the independent health and social care real estate team. Senior associate Heather Caddy is also noted.

Healthcare Tier 1

The large team at Browne Jacobson LLP has a broad geographic reach, covering London, Nottingham, and Manchester, and advises a range of clients across both the public and independent sectors, particularly on the creation of integrated care systems, NHS mergers, and service reconfigurations. It has frequently been involved in high-profile development projects in digital technology, and the team also has provided advice on high-value complex claims for the MPS and major private healthcare providers. Practice head Gerard Hanratty advises the NHS on key CCG mergers. Christian Dingwall joined from Hempsons in January 2019 and specialises in regulation and compliance for the NHS and the health sector in general. Senior associate Charlotte Harpin specialises in NHS commissioning functions.

Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's 'efficient and knowledgeable' Nottingham team handles contentious and non-contentious insolvency and recovery cases for creditors and debtors. On the contentious side, the firm represents creditors, joint administrators and liquidators in high value claims in various industries. Legal director Emma Taylor has a wealth of experience assisting creditors and distressed companies with restructuring procedures and business-critical transactions. In a recent highlight, she acted for Sunrise Records Entertainment on its purchase of assets from the joint administrators of HMV Retail Limited for £885,000, resulting in the preservation of almost 1500 jobs. John Adams leads the firm's London team, which often works with the Nottingham office, and has notable expertise in fraud and asset recovery.

Intellectual property Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has a full-service IP offering, covering everything from IP audits and transactional work to litigation connected with various IP rights. The firm has particular expertise in the retail sector, including luxury retailers and fashion brands. The firm boasts an impressive client base with leading international clients such as LVMH Group and OSI Systems Inc, on top of many British household names including Boots and Fortnum & Mason. Declan Cushley in London leads the firm's national IP practice. In Nottingham, Selina Hinchliffe is 'highly experienced' in complex transactional matters. Paula Dumbill is also recommended.

IT and telecoms Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP provides 'pragmatic and trusted advice' across the full spectrum of IT and telecoms law. The firm distinguishes itself from other competitors with its strong focus on digital transformation, demonstrating knowledge in data protection, database rights, e-commerce and cloud technology. The firm acts for a range of clients in both the private and public sectors, with key clients including Crown Prosecution Service, Branston and Tech Data. 'Calm and considerate' partner Paula Dumbill heads the practice.

Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has a sizeable defendant clinical negligence and personal injury practice with a national reach. Led by UK clinical negligence practice head Lorna Hardman, the team specialises in complex and high-value cases, with a notable strength in mandates involving complex brain injuries, wrongful birth, group litigation and serious spinal injuries. The firm's personal injury practice is spread across commercial insurance, health, social care and education. Key growth areas for the firm include abuse in a sport and faith context. Sarah Erwin-Jones is noted for her 'exceptional experience' of defending high-profile sex abuse claims. Susan Mabbott and Laura Hughes are also recommended.

Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has an impressive offering and is able to service clients across the full spectrum of personal tax, trusts and probates mandates. The team demonstrates an 'understanding of family dynamics' and has 'in-depth knowledge'. Providing succession advice to business owners is a cornerstone of the team's practice and its clients include farms and estates. The group also advises on trust structuring, wills and estate planning, and contentious trust work. Practice head Lucy Worwood 'provides practical solutions'. Wenna Thompson and William Colacicchi are also noted.

Planning and environment Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's team in Nottingham occupies a unique position in the market due to its depth of expertise in all areas of planning and environmental law. The firm acts for large corporates, public sector clients and charities, among others. The scope of its work includes various contentious matters, regulatory approvals and developments. Richard Barlow has a strong track record in planning and environment work, including judicial reviews, risk management issues, planning due diligence and joint venture agreements. Laura Hughes has notable expertise in nature conservation projects. Andrew Hopkin is best known for representing claimants and defendants in environmental disputes. Stephen Coult brings invaluable expertise to the planning team as a Chartered Town Planner and Chartered Surveyor. Senior associate Ben Standing is another notable individual.

Private finance initiative (PFI) Tier 1

Working seamlessly with teams in key locations such as London and Manchester, Browne Jacobson LLP's Nottingham practice has the manpower to advise clients on all aspects of large-scale projects, including regeneration and energy initiatives. Craig Elder, who is based in Nottingham, has over 15 years of experience advising public and private sector clients on PFI and PPP developments, with a particular emphasis on social infrastructure, waste, energy and leisure projects. In a recent highlight, Elder advised Elmbridge District Council on the £20m procurement of an operator to run a major leisure facility in Elmbridge. Anja Beriro specialises in advising clients on government projects, with particular strengths in procurement and outsourcing. Associate Alex Kynoch is also recommended.

Professional negligence Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP advises clients at every single stage of the insurance cycle. Key clients include long-term client Hiscox, among other leading names in the industry. The firm has extensive experience and expertise in dealing with policy coverage matters. Practice head Jonathan Newbold has an 'unrivalled knowledge' of the sector and adopts a 'real commercial approach'. Clients praise the team for its 'sound judgement' and 'personable' manner.

Property litigation Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP's Nottingham group is part of a larger national property disputes practice, which is led by 'true professional' Pamela Shepherd. The team acts for public and private sector clients operating in various industries, including retail, healthcare and insurance. Its work includes disputes arising from developments, as well as landlord and tenant matters. Mark Aldrich has over 28 years of experience in land and leasehold disputes. Associates Louise Read and Helen Taller are also recommended.

Public sector Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has a full-service practice that encompasses all areas of public sector law. Simon Tait (who heads up the health team) has particular expertise in NHS mergers, and acts for NHS Resolution and private healthcare providers, such as Bupa and Spire. The education team, which is led by Mark Blois, has a 'wealth of expertise' in academy conversions, multi-academy trusts and PFI schools. Also notable is that it launched an innovative digitalised GDPR toolkit for clients. Richard Barlow and others act on high-profile social care matters and major regeneration projects, including ‘One Cathedral Green’ in Derby.

Social housing Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has the bench strength to advise developers and housing associations on all aspects of large-scale affordable housing developments, including strategic partnerships, funding transactions, planning permissions and plot sales. Its team includes Gabor Taller, who has particular expertise in social housing development work and funding arrangements. Barry Sully specialises in regeneration projects, mixed-use schemes, joint ventures and social housing projects. In a recent highlight, Taller and Sully advised EMH Housing and Regeneration Limited on the acquisition of a site for the £12m development of 65 extra-care apartments and other facilities in Leicester. Associates Ben Standing and Holly Chadwick are also key members of the group.

Sport Tier 1

Browne Jacobson LLP has strong expertise in sport, with a particular strength in motor sports. The team represents sporting organisations and has experience of both professional and amateur sports. Notable highlights for the firm included successfully defending Wolverhampton Wanderers against a copyright infringement claim. The main contact in Nottingham is Peter Jones, who has a strong background in sport-related employment matters.

Agriculture and estates Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP leverages its multidisciplinary strengths to advise clients in both the public and private sectors. The firm is recognised for its involvement in high-profile proprietary estoppel cases involving agricultural law. The practice is jointly led by Robert Wofinden and Lucy Worwood. Senior associate Georgina Euden is a key member of the team and recently became a Fellow of the Agricultural Law Association. The firm's recent work included acting for the Bridge Farm Group on the sale of the group to Canadian cannabis grower Sundial.

Education Tier 2

The ‘highly responsive, clear and authoritative’ Browne Jacobson LLP provides corporate social responsibility support to schools through experience working as school governors. The firm is 'knowledgeable and gives well-founded advice'. ‘Exceptional’ practice head Julia Green specialises in education, particularly academy conversions, and ‘responds to questions with great efficiency’, as well as ‘sustaining a positive personal relationship with key staff’. Notable in her team is senior associate Victoria Hatton, whose expertise includes school governance, the corporate aspects of academy conversions and advising on contentious matters.

Employment Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP has an experienced employment law practice that acts for both public and private sector clients in the commercial, education, public, health and insurance industries. The team works closely with HR departments and frequently holds training seminars and presentations to prevent future disputes. The team, which is led by Peter Jones, focuses on a broad range of matters, including TUPE, termination of contracts, disputes and strike actions involving trade unions.

Health and safety Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP demonstrates strong capabilities in dealing with regulatory crime, including health and safety breaches. The key names in Exeter are Dale Collins and Nigel Lyons, who act for clients in both the private and public sectors. The team is sought to advise on prosecutions or investigations following health and safety accidents. It also provides advice on areas such as food safety, environment, the care sector and road traffic investigations. Andrew Hopkin in Nottingham is the overall head of the practice.

Local government Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP provides broad expertise in local government matters, with particular experience compulsory purchase, regeneration, procurement and state aid. The firm acts for a range of public sector bodies, including local and central government, and police, fire and rescue services. The practice is also active in planning, environmental and governance matters. Joanne Pruden specialises in defendant litigation and focuses on technical claims and social care. She co-leads the team with Peter Ware, who is head of the national government and infrastructure group.

Local government Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP , which is praised for its 'very professional and knowledgeable' team, is particularly known for advising local authorities on housing and regeneration across London and the South East. It is frequently instructed to act for central government departments such as the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Justice and has extensive experience in environmental projects and waste management. Stephen Matthew 'has incredible knowledge and expertise' advising on major procurements, joint ventures between developer partners and local authorities, and regeneration projects. Government sector team head Peter Ware specialises in local government commercial issues, while Richard Barlow focuses on judicial review cases and governance.

Local government Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP's public law practice works with local authorities across the country, and focuses on large scale procurement, regeneration, waste and other contractual matters. The practice has advised on contracts and outsourcing arrangements for services including ICT, social care, children's services, software and software licences, adult and community learning and bus services. It has also provided guidance on alternative delivery models such as community benefit societies. Michael Mousdale has extensive experience acting on local authority PFI schemes and strategic partnerships.

Professional discipline Tier 2

Browne Jacobson LLP acts for a number of the leading public and third sector regulatory bodies in the UK. The practice assists the Teaching Regulation Agency on a high-volume basis, and regularly assists NHS England with regulatory matters concerning the Performers Lists. It also has specialist expertise in High Court disciplinary matters, including appeals arising from fitness to practise decisions of the health and social care regulators. In addition, the firm handles judicial review challenges to the exercise of disciplinary functions. Nottingham-based Fiona Butler has a broad professional disciplinary practice spanning the education, healthcare, construction and surveying industries. Ros Foster in London was recently instructed by local authorities to conduct disciplinary and similar investigations against senior officers and members. Also key to the national group are Ben Bentley, and senior associates Samantha Paxman and Louisa Atkin.

Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP's team is headed by Nottingham-based Catherine Rustomji, who is an experienced charity lawyer specialising in constitutional, governance and regulatory issues. The firm primarily acts for clients in disputes and advises on contract and competition law. A key lawyer who assists with matters from the Manchester office is Dominic Buckley.

Education: institutions Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP's higher education practice is led by experienced practitioner Bettina Rigg, who joined from VWV in April 2020. The strengths of the multidisciplinary team are evident in areas such as real estate, employment law and intellectual property. Birmingham-based partner Dominic Swift is recommended for advice on governance and contractual issues. IP specialist Selina Hinchliffe is active in transactional and standalone advisory work. On the projects side, Alex Kynoch leads on contentious and non-contentious public procurement matters. Employment partner Kerren Daly is described as 'exceptional' by clients. Mark Blois is another notable individual.

Employment Tier 3

The team at Browne Jacobson LLP is led by the 'very experienced and effective' Kerren Daly, who specialises in executive terminations and boardroom disputes, as well as employment issues relating to restructurings and M&A. The team also has a track record of supporting both public and private clients on HR matters. Employment tribunal specialist Ian Deakin is another name to note.

Employment: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP delivers specialist advice to clients in the education sector; clients in this space notably include a number of multi-academy trusts. In a major development, healthcare sector expert Bridget Prosser joined from Capsticks LLP in September 2019 to head up the Exeter-based employment team. The group demonstrates strong capabilities in complex transactions and advisory work, as well as employment tribunal cases.

Health Tier 3

Full-service firm Browne Jacobson LLP specialises in clinical commissioning group (CCG) mergers, integrated care systems and fit-for-purpose-facilities matters. The practice also provides expertise in digital technology and judicial review work, particularly in relation to disputes between local authorities and the NHS. Simon Tait co-leads the team with Mark Barnett, who focuses on health and social care, as well as being an experienced litigator.

Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 3

Browne Jacobson LLP handles trade mark and brand portfolio work for an international roster of FMCG, cosmetics, media and entertainment, luxury goods, advertising and sports clients. Practice leader Declan Cushley, Alex Watt and associate Faye McConnell advise on work ranging from transactional support and copyright licensing, to global trade mark and design enforcement and protection. An impressive litigation bench includes Giles Parsons  and Birmingham-based Mark Daniels, whose recent highlights have involved breach-of-confidence, passing off, and infringement disputes before the EUIPO and IPEC, and injunction proceedings before the High Court.

IT and telecoms Tier 3

The ‘focused, problem-solving and diligent’ team at Browne Jacobson LLP provides expertise in digital transformations, and innovative technology and national infrastructure projects. The full-service firm brings experience in employment, tax, health and public sector work to its technology and telecoms practice. Declan Cushley specialises in commercial and intellectual property matters and co-leads the team with IT specialist Anthony Nagle, whose experience includes handling transactions and restructurings in the private and public sectors.

Art and cultural property Tier 4

Under the leadership of Declan Cushley, Browne Jacobson LLP acts for major cultural institutions and public bodies, and has built up considerable niche expertise in acting for street and urban artists, advising on brand partnerships and infringement actions. The group also assists the owners of landed estates and local authorities with listed building and conservation area issues. Intellectual property partner Alex Watt has extensive experience of advising artists on the protection of their IP, as well as galleries on their relationships with artists.

Banking and finance Tier 4

The 'accessible, efficient and confident' Jonathan Edwards leads Browne Jacobson LLP's banking and finance practice; he is recognised for his experience acting on property finance, asset-based lending and acquisition finance mandates, with two decades of experience in the North West market. Supporting Edwards is associate Melanie Chisnall, who is highly active in a range of banking transactions, including in the automotive and chemicals sectors.

Clinical negligence: defendant Tier 4

With a particular focus on independent healthcare and health technology, the 'very strong specialist' clinical negligence team at Browne Jacobson LLP acts for major medical and laboratory services providers, both in the UK and internationally. Lorna Hardman heads up the national practice, while 'formidable opponent' Matthew Trinder takes the lead in London. The firm regularly takes on claims relating to neurosurgical matters, genetics, pathology, and obstetrics.

Commercial property: Manchester Tier 4

Browne Jacobson LLP possesses a 'very committed and diligent team of individuals who act well on their own initiative.' The practice's strengths lie in education, public sector and development work. Dominic Buckley co-leads the team, and is known in the market for his work with major developers on residential development. Fellow co-head Victoria Thourgood helped to establish the firm's independent health and social care real estate team; her work involves both the independent sector and the public sector.

Construction: contentious Tier 4

Browne Jacobson LLP acts for a range of clients in both the private and public sectors, including contractors, insurers and local government bodies. Tim Claremont, who heads up the practice, has strong experience of both UK and international construction issues, handling litigation and arbitration, including contentious energy matters. The team has been strengthened by the addition of legal director Jo Phillips, who joined from Hogan Lovells International LLP in late 2019.

Infrastructure Tier 4

Browne Jacobson LLP has a well-established presence in the local authority housing and regeneration market. The firm frequently acts on high-value transactions and significant regeneration projects including Watford Riverwell and the regeneration of Chichester Southern Gateway. Other key areas include advising on environmental projects and procurements on behalf of local authorities. Stephen Matthew, Craig Elder and Peter Ware head the practice. The team has 'excellent technical lawyers' and provide 'high quality legal advice'.

Insurance and reinsurance litigation Tier 4

Traditionally singled out for its professional indemnity and financial services expertise, Browne Jacobson LLP has recently expanded its practice to cover brokers’ E&O matters, coverholder issues, property claims and reinsurance work. The practice is led by Colin Peck, while Jonathan Newbold heads up the firm’s financial and professional risks group, and splits his time between Nottingham and London. Francis Mackie handles both insurance and reinsurance disputes.

Media and entertainment (including media finance) Tier 4

Browne Jacobson LLP has a strong digital advertising and marketing practice, which is particularly active in influencer marketing and social media issues, where it acts for large brands and influencer agencies including Billion Dollar Boy and Whalar. The team counts affiliate marketing issues as a growth area, where it leverages the firm's IT and data protection expertise, including that of Birmingham-based Richard Nicholas. It has also recently been instructed by traditional advertising agencies, which are becoming increasingly active in digital and social media advertising. Declan Cushley leads the commercial and IP team, while Alex Watt heads up the advertising team.

Personal injury: defendant Tier 4

Complex employers' and public liability claims epitomise the work profile of the 'resourceful' personal injury team at Browne Jacobson LLP. The firm focuses particularly on the education sector, and regularly acts on behalf of the Department for Education in respect of their Risk Protection Arrangement for schools scheme.  Practice head David Maggs deals principally with novel and high-profile claims on behalf of local government.

Professional negligence Tier 4

Browne Jacobson LLP handles defendant work for solicitors, brokers, accountants, architects, patent agent, barristers, engineers and construction professionals. Ed Anderson  leads the London group and ‘has a vast wealth of knowledge‘ in claims involving tax and pensions issues. Jonathan Newbold is head of the national financial and professional risks group. Former senior partner Derek Bambury has expertise in cross-border work, having had matters heard in the Cayman Grand Court and Gibraltar Court of Appeal.

Retail and consumer Tier 4

The ‘modern, forward-looking and flexible’ retail, leisure and distribution practice at Browne Jacobson LLP is a key name for real estate-related mandates and is jointly led by real estate specialists Caroline Green and Sarah Parkinson in London and Nottingham respectively. The group’s client roster encompasses luxury brands, retailers, leisure operators, distributors and franchisees; with key examples including LVMH, Boots and PureGym. Beyond real estate, practitioners in the firm’s technology, commercial, corporate, dispute resolution, employment and competition teams also contribute to the firm’s retail work; and Alex Watt and Declan Cushley have notable advertising and IP knowledge respectively. The team is also singled out for its expertise in social influencer marketing work and related social media issues.

Venture capital Tier 4

Singled out for its work on the company side, Browne Jacobson LLP is also increasingly active on behalf of investors providing the funding and picks up significant deal flow throughout the investment lifecycle. Led by the 'exceptional' Jon Snade, the team has 'very strong fintech and insuretech credentials', with many investee clients leveraging the firm's novel GROW programme, which provides ongoing legal support as well as the provision of fixed-fee rates for more substantive legal queries. Birmingham-based partner Mike Jackson  'really knows his stuff', particularly in relation to automotive technology mandates.

Administrative and public law Tier 5

Browne Jacobson LLP’s government, regulatory and advocacy team receives instructions from a diverse roster of public bodies including ombudsmen, regulators and auditors in the environmental protection, education, healthcare and social care fields. Nottingham-based practice heads Richard Barlow and Laura Hughes and London-based Ros Foster advise on vires issues, regulatory investigations, and provide representation in judicial review litigation. Manchester-based Gerard Hanratty handles major services reconfiguration projects for NHS bodies across the UK.

Construction: non-contentious Tier 5

Browne Jacobson LLP acts for a range of public and private sector clients including NHS trusts, insurers, contractors and developers. Tim Claremont is noted for his work for clients on domestic and international engineering and construction matters such as  EPC contract work for energy projects. Jo Phillips, a recent addition to the team after joining from Hogan Lovells International LLP in December 2019, is recognised for her knowledge of project structuring on local and international work.  

Fintech Tier 5

Browne Jacobson LLP fields a 'proactive and flexible' fintech team that focuses on advising fintech clients and investors on commercial agreements and corporate transactions. Jon Snade is well versed in advising fintech clients on all forms of corporate transactions, including M&A, private fund investments, management buyouts and joint ventures. Declan Cushley specialises in commercial and IP arrangements in the field. Murdoch Currie joined the team in 2019 from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP.

Fraud: civil Tier 5

Browne Jacobson LLP's expertise in fraud disputes spans financial services, white-collar crime, insurance, D&O's liability and fraud in the health and education sectors. John Adams, who is the London-based head of the insolvency and dispute resolution team, specialises in fraud and asset recovery cases. He recently represented the trustee in the bankruptcy of Bernard L. Madoff in claims against feeder funders and service providers over fraudulent trading. Paul Wainwright in Birmingham is another notable individual. Partner Nick Pontt left the firm in October 2019.

Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant

Browne Jacobson LLP’s clinical negligence defence practice acts for major public sector organisations, such as NHS Resolution and the Medical Protection Society, as well as for a range of private sector clients. Key areas of expertise include cerebral palsy cases and claims involving brain damage and catastrophic injury. Amanda Callaghan heads the team. Andrew Peel is also noted.

Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant

Browne Jacobson LLP has developed a strong health and social care practice in Exeter, acting for a variety of NHS Trusts in clinical claims across the south west. Mark Barnett heads the department; he defends clinical negligence claims on behalf of the NHS and has particular expertise in defending cases against mental health providers. The technical claims team acts for multiple local authorities in the south west, in cases involving psychiatric injury, failure to nurture, occupiers' liability, and highways litigation. The group is led by Joanne Pruden, who takes the lead on local authority work. Pruden also has a specialism in sexual abuse cases. Director Angela Williams is another name to note, and specialises in employers' liability claims for insurers.