DLA Piper ‘consistently demonstrates exceptional responsiveness and availability’, advising public bodies, banks, tech manufacturers and life sciences companies. The practice is involved in responding to cyber incidents, analysing international data protection legislative regimes and offering clients internal training on cyber safety best practice. The ’exceptionally helpful’ Ross McKean forms the bedrock of the practice and excels in matters involving international data compliance and crisis management post-cyber attack. Simon Persoff, a September 2024 arrival from Clifford Chance LLP, stands out for his in-depth legislative knowledge ranging from the Digital Operational Resilience Act and the Digital Services Act. In March 2025, James Clark left the team.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'DLA's data protection and cyber security practice is distinguished by the experience of its senior practitioners.'
- 'These practitioners have an exceptional grasp of the legal and technical complexities.'
- ‘The data protection team at DLA Piper consistently demonstrates exceptional responsiveness and availability.'
- 'Ross McKean was exceptionally helpful.'
- 'All members of the team are friendly, approachable and always on hand at all hours to provide targeted advice when requested, even in a time-sensitive situation.'
- 'Their advice is not only timely but also grounded in real-world practicality, making complex regulatory challenges easier to navigate. Their ability to translate legal requirements into actionable guidance is a standout strength.'
- 'The thing that sets them apart is that you do not get a textbook answer; you get a practical solution that you can then deploy in the business. This is invaluable.'
- 'DLA Piper has helped our organisation with sourcing new technology to assist us in our day-to-day role.'
Key clients
- CrowdStrike
- UNHCR
- 3M Company
- Information Commissioner’s Office
- Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority
Work highlights
Advising Pearson on the data protection and AI aspects of two long-term strategic partnerships with both AWS and Microsoft, worth over USD1 billion and finalised in December 2024.
Advising the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) on evaluating the adequacy of personal data protection in jurisdictions currently benefitting from an "adequacy decision" under Article 45 of the UK GDPR.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Ross McKean
Other key lawyers
Shervin Nahid; Simon Persoff; David Cook