Bates Wells provides counsel in electoral law, encompassing digital campaign innovation and associated data privacy considerations, while advising on the new foreign influence registration scheme and the implications of the Elections Act 2022. The firm assists a wide range of political parties, candidates and non-party campaigners, offering guidance on electoral events and regulatory interventions by bodies such as the Electoral Commission. The practice has established itself in non-party campaigning, integrating public, regulatory, constitutional, commercial and media law. Simon Steeden leads the team, advising political parties and campaigners with expertise in cross-jurisdictional electoral law and digital campaigning. Bob Posner, a consultant, brings extensive experience from his tenure as Chief Executive of the UK Electoral Commission. Eleonor Duhs, a former government lawyer, specialises in domestic and EU legislation, focusing on data protection and parliamentary processes. Suhan Rajkumar advises on campaign finance, the Elections Act 2022, and the proposed foreign influence registration scheme. Jessica Collings advises on political regulation, including electoral finance and lobbying, with a cross-jurisdictional focus.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Bates Wells’ Electoral Practice is a standout in a highly specialised area of law. The team combines deep legal expertise with a practical understanding of the political and regulatory landscape, making them a trusted advisor for complex and sensitive matters. They are consistently approachable and responsive, and their advice is clear, actionable, and grounded in the realities of working within the electoral and campaigning space.
- What sets the team apart is not just their subject-matter expertise, but their ability to handle novel and often challenging legal issues with confidence and precision. They are always available to discuss matters at short notice and provide calm, thoughtful guidance when it is most needed. We particularly value the way they collaborate internally and with clients, working in partnership to deliver solutions that are both legally sound and operationally workable.
- The team’s commitment to the values of transparency, fairness, and integrity is reflected in their work and culture. Their openness to flexible billing, diversity in staffing, and use of technology to streamline support all add to a highly professional and modern service.’
‘The individuals we work with at Bates Wells are exceptional. Both Suhan Rajkumar and Simon Steeden bring a combination of deep technical skill and sound judgment that is rare in such a specialised field. Suhan is a particularly thoughtful adviser—measured, precise, and unfailingly clear in his advice. He handles complex electoral and campaigning issues with a calm assurance that inspires confidence.
- Simon Steeden is widely respected in this field, and rightly so. His strategic insight and understanding of constitutional and regulatory law are invaluable. He has the ability to see both the detail and the bigger picture, offering advice that is not only legally robust but also sensitive to political and reputational context.
- Both Suhan and Simon are generous with their time, practical in their approach, and genuinely committed to supporting their clients. Their professionalism, integrity, and collaborative style make them a real asset to any organisation navigating electoral or public law matters.’
Key clients
- The Liberal Democrat Party
- Green Party of England and Wales
- James Bagge (Independent Candidate for South West Norfolk
- 38 Degrees
- Save the Children UK
- SOAS, University of London
- New Economy Organisers Network
- UCLU (Students’ Union UCL)
- LexisNexis
- Lexology
- Shelter
- Royal National Institute for the Blind
Work highlights
Advising the Green Party on party governance and electoral finance issues and on internal and external disputes, including acting in a claim brought against them by a former spokesperson who alleged that his removal had been discriminatory on the ground of ‘gender critical belief’.
Advising the Liberal Democrats on a range of matters, including relating to election law and tax consequences as they relate to legacy fundraising.
Advising Save the Children UK on its plans to work with a number of other charities and voluntary organisations to run a children’s election, parallel to the General Election.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Suhan Rajkumar
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Jessica Collings
Practice head
Simon Steeden
Other key lawyers
Bob Posner; Eleanor Duhs; Suhan Rajkumar; Jessica Collings