Paul Giles > DLA Piper > Manchester, England > Lawyer Profile

Known for its specialism in contentious matters, the construction team at DLA Piper primarily deal with PFI/PPP disputes, national and international disputes, as well as major non-contentious development matters. Practice head Paul Giles has particular expertise in cross-jurisdictional dispute avoidance and resolution within the energy and infrastructure sectors. Infrastructure expert Alison Fagan regularly handles PFI/PPP issues and disputes with complex supply chain arrangements. David Moss continues to support the team as a consultant, assisting with numerous non-standard contracts in the civil engineering space and building the practice’s international presence.

DLA Piper advises on market-leading transport transactions of local, national and international significance. Its multidisciplinary team works on infrastructure and construction projects, as well as financing matters including asset finance. Head of team Liam Cowell has extensive experience in large-scale road and rail infrastructure and related financing. Paul Giles leads the UK contentious construction team, acting for both public and private sector clients, whilst Alan Cunningham heads the asset finance practice with a particular focus on aircraft, shipping and super yacht finance. Typical of its high-value work is its role advising Transport for the North (TfN) on contracting and procurement for its ‘smart travel’ plan.

DLA Piper is highly regarded for its expertise in major infrastructure projects, spanning UK, international and PFI/PPP disputes, as well as project advisory work. It acts for clients across the whole of the construction supply chain, and has particular expertise in energy, heavy industry and process plants, and development investment. Paul Giles leads the team from Manchester. Bob Maynard and Caroline Pope have added considerable strength to the team since joining in 2020; both offer extensive experience in utilities and nuclear related matters, as well as commercial development and engineering disputes, respectively. Edward Shaw specialises in international arbitration, with particular experience advising Korean and Chinese clients. Anna Mills focuses on construction and engineering disputes, whilst Alison Fagan has a strong reputation for advising UK PPP portfolios.