Described as a ‘boutique firm’ with ’magic circle firm skills and attention’, the Northridge Law LLP team has extensive experience of advising on multi-jurisdictional strategic investments, global sponsorship programmes, and player transfers within the football space. The practice demonstrates significant strength on the contentious side, handling alleged regulatory breaches and complex HMRC enquiries, with Jonathan Ellis and the ‘tenacious’ James Eighteen being strong commercial litigators. On the non-contentious side, Ian Lynam is a 'great commercial deal maker', while Paul Shapiro and the ’very pragmatic’ Jon Walters are regulatory experts, routinely overseeing governance issues. Jamie Feldman heads the firm’s employment offering, providing valuable insights during sports-based acquisitions. George Willis is a data protection specialist, Sarah Boulton regularly acts for governing bodies in restructuring competitions, and both Mike Herbert and Oliver Harland are cited as key contacts, predominantly for financing and regulatory proceedings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘What makes Northridge unique is that they are a boutique firm with magic circle firm skills and attention. Not only is their knowledge of the law top-tier but their knowledge of the sporting industry is unique and specialised, giving them an edge when it comes to advising my company on its sporting sponsorships.’
‘Jon Walters, who is a founding partner, is our relationship contact and is always directly involved or right there on overseeing junior partners or associates. He is always available when we need him.'
‘All of the partners are expert in sports law, some focusing more on the commercial side, such as Ian Lynam and Jon Walters, some on the regulatory side, such as Jon Ellis and Sarah Boulton, and some covering both, such as James Eighteen. This additional focus means that the firm is able to provide individuals who are extremely experienced and expert in relation to the specific question that a sports client faces from time to time. Both partners and associates exhibit a can-do attitude to any issue, inspire confidence that they will be able to deal with the issue, and then have the ability to do so. All are friendly and open, and interaction is a pleasure as well as productive.’
‘Mike Herbert and Ian Lynam are very clever lawyers, who can combine commercial and legal points very well.’
‘James Eighteen – a tenacious litigator who has an eye for detail, understands the various rules and regulations but balances technical excellence with commerciality. Excellent communicator. Ian Lynam – non-contentious sports law around. Whilst having an engaging personality he has an excellent mind with a vast array of knowledge and experience. Always gives concise and thoughtful advice.’
‘Ian Lynam – great commercial deal maker, well-rounded adviser. Jon Ellis – very smart operator, hugely well connected. Paul Shapiro – again, excellent commercial awareness and knowledgeable in the football market.’
‘Jon Ellis – fantastic service; a clear sector expert; sensible advice and very approachable.'
- 'Jon Walters – very pragmatic and commercial. Responsive and knowledgeable, excellent client management skills.’
Key clients
- The FA
- Chelsea FC
- The Premier League
- Blue Heaven Holdings Limited (current owner of 94.1% of Everton Football Club)
- Spotify
- Elliott
- RedBird
- Premiership Rugby (PRL)
- Betway / Super Group
- The British Horseracing Authority (BHA)
Work highlights
- Acting for the seller on the ongoing sale of Everton FC, against the backdrop of various significant potential and ongoing developments for the club.
- Acting for The FA in 'a landmark case' (according to The Times) brought by various agencies in relation to the domestic implementation of FIFA’s reformed agent regulations.
- Acting for Michele Kang on the landmark creation of the world’s first women’s football multi-club ownership structure.
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
Jonathan Ellis; Ian Lynam; Jon Walters; James Eighteen; Paul Shapiro; Jamie Feldman; Mike Herbert
Other key lawyers
George Willis; Sarah Boulton; Oliver Harland