Regarded by clients as 'one of the best media defence practices in town', RPC is a leading firm in defamation, privacy, data protection, and media law, with a broad client base that includes national and local newspapers, broadcasters, magazines, and freelance journalists. The practice is led by Rupert Cowper-Coles, who enjoys a strong reputation for his expertise in media, content, and data protection, advising clients on freedom of expression and content liability issues. Keith Mathieson brings extensive experience, having represented major news organisations in landmark defamation and privacy cases. Alex Wilson is a trusted adviser on defamation, privacy, and data protection matters, while Alex Vakil focuses on contentious issues, including data breaches and subject access requests. The team has been further strengthened by Lindsay Warwick, who brings valuable in-house experience from a leading global news publisher, particularly in pre-publication advice and media claims.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Without question, one of the market leaders in this field.’
‘Alex Wilson is a very talented, up-and-coming partner with very good instincts.'
‘One of the best media defence practices in town.'
‘Alex Wilson is a hugely able lawyer with great judgement.'
‘Excellent pragmatic advice.’
‘Keith Mathieson is always excellent.'
'The team knows its clients and delivers its advice in an efficient and useful form. Great depth of talent from trainee to partner.'
Key clients
- Associated Newspapers Limited
- MGN Limited / Reach PLC
- Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd
- Times Media Limited
- News Group Newspapers Limited
- Bloomberg LP (Bloomberg News)
- Channel 4
- The Bureau of Investigative Journalism
- Peter McCormack
- Carole Cadwalladr
Work highlights
Successfully defended a libel action brought by the Duke of Sussex against Associated Newspapers Limited over an article in February 2022, which reported on the Duke's judicial review proceedings against the Home Office concerning his security arrangements when visiting the UK and the nature of public statements issued by him about those proceedings.
Acting for six individuals who are being sued in defamation and harassment by a cosmetic surgery clinic, Signature Medical Limited, over reviews and comments on Trustpilot or Facebook expressing dissatisfaction with their treatment with the clinic.
Instructed by Matt Hancock MP in defence of the libel claim brought by Andrew Bridgen MP over a tweet in which Mr Hancock accused Mr Bridgen of spouting "antisemitic, anti-vax, anti-scientific conspiracy theories" over the Covid-19 vaccine.
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.
Practice head
Rupert Cowper-Coles
Other key lawyers
Keith Mathieson; Lindsay Warwick; Alex Wilson; Alex Vakil