England - London • Public sector
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Administrative and public law

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DLA Piper

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With Emma Dowden-Teale leading the practice, DLA Piper continues to strengthen its place in the market as a go-to firm for a range of public law matters, including judicial review, public procurement challenges, and public inquiries. The team has expanded to include Claire Whittle and Harry Campbell, who joined from Bates Wells in November 2023 and January 2024 respectively. In particular, Whittle is recommended for her notable capabilities in both contentious and non-contentious public law matters. George McLellan left the firm in February 2024.
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Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Both Claire Whittle and Emma Dowden-Teale are great at navigating the complex world of JR, and also avoiding their clients being in court (as well as winning when they are). They understand both the politics and the law, bringing ample dispute resolution skills to the forefront.'

  • ‘Claire Whittle and Emma Dowden-Teale both have an impressive practical approach underpinned by the law but not straightjacketed by it. They are willing to consider creative solutions and are strong team players.’

  • ‘The team has been fantastic at providing relevant, detailed, and comprehensive advice.’

  • 'Extremely efficient team with detailed knowledge.'

  • 'Martyn Scott - an excellent and seasoned procurement litigator with detailed technical knowledge, very sound tactical and strategic judgment on litigation strategy.'

  • 'Marie Fegan - extremely efficient and organised litigation expert, excellent case management skill.'

  • 'The breadth of experience and multi-disciplinary knowledge within the wider DLAP organisation increased our confidence in their ability to take instruction and act efficiently and effectively in virtually all circumstances even for the most complicated and awkward issues including a complex High Court Judicial Review matter.'

  • 'We continue to rely heavily on the service provided particularly by Emma Dowden-Teale whose knowledge, expertise, experience, clear and effective communication skills, approachability and adherence to strict time constraints imposed by court process have been of significant reassurance.'

Key clients

  • The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
  • The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
  • Government Legal Department
  • The Disclosure and Barring Service
  • Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority
  • The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
  • NHS England
  • The Sea Fish Industry Authority
  • Birmingham City Council
  • Halton Borough Council

Work highlights

  • Acted for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in respect of its response to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.
  • Acted for Birmingham City Council in respect of its judicial review against the Department for Transport.
  • Acted for West Coast Railway Company Limited in challenging a decision of the Office of Rail and Road.

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.

Practice head

Emma Dowden-Teale

Other key lawyers

Claire Whittle; Harry Campbell; Martyn Scott; Marie Fegan; Jessica Hill; Joanna Haigh; Sarah Burton