Harbottle & Lewis LLP excels at advising video game and esport clients on a wide range of issues. The firm’s clientele includes global publishers and IP owners, smaller publishers, and distributors. It is highly experienced in negotiating game deals and representing clients in media disputes that often include cross-border elements. The team also advises indie gaming studios and trade associations on video gaming matters. The firm boasts a strong corporate team to support clients with investments and M&A in the gaming sector. Mark Phillips co-leads the practice and is an expert in commercial video game matters, and co-head Kostyantyn Lobov is well-known for his commercial, IP, and regulatory work in the gaming industry. Ed Lane is a go-to for corporate issues and was promoted to partner in April 2025. Marissa Beatty is a newly promoted senior associate who focuses on IP disputes for the gaming sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The team's understanding and knowledge of the entertainment sector is very valuable and important.'
- 'Ed Lane is a great up-and-coming partner who regularly advises us on our M&A work. He has a great knack for keeping deals moving forward by understanding what is actually important to his clients.’
Key clients
- SEGA
- Take-Two Interactive
Work highlights
Advised SEGA on cutting edge technology, data, and regulatory matters.
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.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Kostyantyn Lobov; Mark Phillips
Other key lawyers
Jordan-Marie Caton; Ed Lane; Marissa Beatty