A&O Shearman’s practice combines commercial public law, judicial review, and public procurement expertise, advising regulated corporates, utilities, public bodies, and NGOs. The team handles a broad spectrum of issues, from ESG litigation risks and AI-related challenges to business and human rights matters. It has experience in large-scale disputes, regulatory appeals, and advising on procurement and due diligence. Andrew Denny, head of UK public law, regularly advises on judicial reviews, government decision-making, and freedom of information. Mahmood Lone, co-head and head of litigation and investigations, brings expertise in complex litigation. Maeve Hanna advises corporates, public bodies, and charities across a wide range of public law matters, including regulatory compliance and public sector engagement.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘It goes without saying that the team is an expert in public law issues. The team is also very responsive and listens to the aspects which are important to clients.'

  • ‘Andrew Denny is extremely approachable and easy to work with. He knows his stuff and gives clear, confident advice.’

  • ‘A highly competent and very well-resourced team in commercial judicial review matters. Particular expertise in dealing with subsidy control matters.’

  • 'The strength of the team lies in their ability to translate complex legal ideas into practical guidance.'
  • 'What stood out across the board was a shared commitment to clarity, accessibility, and public service. The team worked with care and attention to detail, often going beyond what was asked to make sure the guide was both accurate and practical. It was a genuine pleasure to work with individuals who were not only technically strong but also open, responsive, and easy to collaborate with.’
  • ‘They are really at the top of their game when it comes to assisting NGO's and representing them on third-party interventions.’

Key clients

  • British Gas
  • Revolut
  • Bail for Immigration Detainees
  • Justice
  • Hitachi Rail Limited
  • Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
  • The AIRE Centre

Work highlights

Representing the family of an individual in an inquest concerning his death in August 2019 in a road traffic collision involving an American driver who was driving on the wrong side of the road.
Acted on behalf of British Gas in its high-profile subsidy control judicial review against the UK Government, and in its joint appeal with E.ON, which was heard by the English Court of Appeal in January 2025.
Working with JUSTICE to produce and deliver an updated version of their ‘Law for Lawmakers’ guide for all new and returning Members of Parliament elected in 2024.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Andrew Denny

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Maeve Hanna

Practice head

Mahmood Lone; Andrew Denny

Other key lawyers

Maeve Hanna; Matthew Townsend