Simons Muirhead Burton centres its practice on publishing advice for traditional and digital media-based clients, and it often represents them in both contentious and non-contentious issues; this offering encompasses copyright litigation, media rights issues, and commercial mandates. The team advises on matters surrounding podcasts, docuseries, live television broadcasts, newspapers, books, and online content. Rights ownership matters, publishing, distribution, licensing agreements, and pre-publication advice also fall with the team's remit. Martin Soames spearheads the practice and leads on litigation and clearance issues for publications. Simon Goldberg advises publishing clients on IP, distribution and media deals, while IP specialist Maninder Gill is well-versed in magazine and newspaper sectors. Jeffrey Smele is noted for his work on pre-publication clearance, news-gathering issues, and handling regulatory complaints. Emma Linch is also a key name regarding clearance advice for book publishers, newspapers, podcasts, and social media companies.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Very professional and helpful. Our legal requirements have always been met with the utmost professionalism and expertise.'
- 'Martin Soames always responds in a timely and professional manner and his advice is excellent.'
Key clients
- Penguin Random House Immediate Media
- Immediate Media Atlantic Books
- Atlantic Books Penguin Random House
- Simon & Schuster UK, Simon & Schuster LLC
- Quarto
- Faber & Faber
- News UK
Work highlights
Advised Penguin Random House on commercial matters and litigation.
Advised Immediate Media on the regulatory position regarding the publisher's existing and planned video-on-demand services.
Assisted Atlantic Books with pre-publication advice with regards to numerous titles.
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
Martin Soames
Other key lawyers
Jeffrey Smele; Simon Goldberg; Maninder Gill; Raoul Lumb; Gordon Clough; Emma Linch