William Fry LLP is reputed for advising on the negotiation of data protection contracts, regulatory aspects, cyber incidents, data transfer, GDPR compliance, and direct marketing laws. Leading the team is Leo Moore, specialising in transactional matters, outsourcing, and the commercialisation of emerging technologies. David Cullen is well-versed in contracts covering the design, development, and implementation of IT projects. Both Rachel Hayes, who stands out for her deep insight into international personal data flows and breach management, and AI expert Barry Scannell, who regularly advises on the interface between automated decision making and profiling, were promoted to partner in May 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The new TechReg tool developed by the William Fry technology team was particularly innovative. We found this tool incredibly useful in helping us gain a clear understanding of the company's obligations under the new EU Digital Reform Package legislation, in high priority areas like AI and data security. This tool assisted both the in-house team and key stakeholders in the organisation in quickly and effectively getting to grips with a vast range of new EU legal requirements.’
- ‘I work in an extremely innovative company that consistently launches new products and offerings that push boundaries in the retail utility space. WF are consistently able to advise us on our legal and data protection queries often on a very short deadline.'
- ‘Very experienced and successful with helping firms in obtaining licences from the CBI. Also, closely involved with new technology/sectors, e.g. digital assets.'
- ‘William Fry has extensive experience advising large data controllers on compliance projects which few firms can rival.'
- 'Their approach is pragmatic but compliance focused, and their track record in regulatory engagement provides insights which are invaluable to businesses who wish to develop a productive relationship with regulators.'
- ‘Rather than simply restating the law, Leo Moore and Rachel Hayes focus on providing actionable solutions to compliance issues. They are diligent and conscientious in working to the brief provided.’
Key clients
- LinkedIn Ireland
- Tesco
- PrepayPower
- J&E Davy
- FBD Insurance plc
- Doyle Hotel Group
- Hudson Advisors L.P.
- Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland
- The Irish Times
- CHDI Foundation Inc.
- Riot Games
Work highlights
Advised the European headquarters of LinkedIn on data protection matters.
Advised Tesco Ireland Limited on some of its most complex, technical data protection mandates relating to its employee assistance programme in Ireland.
Advised the Irish Times on a number of data protection and EU technology regulation workstreams.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Rachel Hayes
Practice head
Leo Moore
Other key lawyers
David Cullen; John O'Connor; Rachel Hayes; Barry Scannell