Eversheds Sutherland continues to demonstrate their deep capabilities across a host of rail-related issues, with a bench of experienced specialists spread across the UK. The team boasts strong expertise across franchising contracts, concession agreements, rolling stock procurement, and regulatory matters, and continues to be a trusted adviser to both public and private sector clients. Parliamentary and planning work remains robust, with ongoing advice on major schemes such as HS2 and the TransPennine Route Upgrade. Internationally, the group acts on projects being conducted by DeutscheBahn and the RTA, Dubai’s transport authority. Agnes Koko is an industry specialist lawyer with extensive experience advising on commercial contracts in the regulated rail sector, including franchise agreements and rolling stock contracts. Koko leads the rail team and transport sector Group. Stephen Collings and James O’Connor are the driving forces behind a strong parliamentary practice that advises on major infrastructure projects. William Spickett, based in Nottingham, is also recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team always put across complex legal issues in a way that everyone can understand. ’
‘The Eversheds team is highly knowledgeable and experienced and work closely with us (as clients) to develop innovative solutions to emerging issues. They are totally committed and always go the extra mile.’
‘The team have different strengths and that's what makes them great to deal with.’
‘The team distinguishes itself through a very strong, client-centered advisory approach. The team possesses exceptional strengths, including diverse expertise in both legal and commercial areas and a strong track record of successful deal closures in the field of transportation. The team stands out, especially in regards to integrating insights from a large number of past deals and benchmarks, and thus can offer holistic solutions and strategic advice.'.
- Agnes Koko stands out with her ability to navigate very complex legal landscapes, offering scenarios and specific solutions that align with the commercial objectives of the project. Her negotiation skills and attention to detail in drafting and reviewing complex legal documents have been instrumental in achieving favorable outcomes for our projects.'
‘The team is very experienced in all aspects of contracts in the rail sector and operates on a global basis. This depth and breadth of knowledge is invaluable in resolving issues for clients, as they have generally dealt with similar issues previously.’
'Agnes Koko is a very experienced rail lawyer and has excellent domain knowledge of the rail industry. She is a powerful leader of her team and is directly involved in the details of her projects.’
'Breadth of talent – good pipeline of young lawyers coming through.'
'A powerhouse in terms of capacity for work, ability to perform and deliver in high-stress situations or when time is really tight, highly dependable, creative in finding solutions in difficult situations.'
'The team is absolutely amazing. all are well organized, skilled and willing to propose new ideas or advises that help to improve your negotiation conditions very competent, skilled and proffesional.'
Key clients
- Department for Transport
- Network Rail Infrastructure Limited
- Deutsche Bahn International Operations GmbH
- Deutsche Bahn AG
- DB Engineering and Consulting GmbH
- Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles
- Roads and Transport Authority Dubai
- Elsewedy Electric
- Aecon O&M
- ONxpress Civils Contractor GP
- ONxpress Operations Inc
- TransPennine Trains Limited
- High Speed Two Limited
- Transport for the West Midlands
- Northern Trains Limited
- DfT Operator Limited
Work highlights
Act as sole legal adviser to UK Department for Transport on its £15 billion programme to conclude all private sector rail operations contracts and bring passenger rail services into the public sector.
Advising Deutsche Bahn as part of the QCONNEXION Rail Partners on its bid for the £5.5 billion Canadian High Frequency Rail Project.
Advising UK Department for Transport on all rolling stock matters which are now wholly funded by the DfT, including £500m+ new rolling stock supply and financing on Southeastern rail services.
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
Agnes Koko
Other key lawyers
Stephen Collings; James O'Connor