The ‘talented’ group at DLA Piper UK LLP maintains its strong focus on the public sector, handling a broad array of national tech projects. Leading the team from Liverpool, Sarah Bell is noted for her exceptional expertise in IT procurement, often assisting government departments. Manchester’s Lee Brierley has longstanding experience in smart ticketing projects; Naomi Ross routinely advises on IT procurement projects within the financial services and utility sectors; and David Booth, who was promoted to partner in May 2024, has vast knowledge of AI and technology contracts. In Liverpool, Peter Brook routinely assists with government clients with tower contracts and national IT programs, and Paddy Dwyer is adept at advising on the full range of business critical IT contracts.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘DLA Piper deliver every time, their approach, professionalism, expertise and partnership means we know we can rely on them for support. They are a one stop shop for us.’
‘Naomi Ross' level of professionalism, partnership approach, her genuine interest in understanding our business, and delivery of exceptional results makes her stand out.’
‘The team has excellent quality throughout, and is commercially focused and approachable. I have always been impressed by the service, speed of response, and pragmatic approach - they do not overcomplicate matters.’
‘I always value Lee Brierley’s opinions and advice drawing upon his wide-ranging experience and skills. He is highly regarded in the market, technically astute and commercially focused. I consider Lee a to be a trusted business advisor and great to work with.’
‘Talented team with breadth of experience and expertise. They provide high levels of client service and excel in supporting complex matters.’
‘David Booth is a stand out performer who provides high levels of client service. His knowledge and ability to find commercial solutions to complex problems make him stand out.’
‘Very skilled at explaining complex subject matter. A strength is definitively the collaborative working. Excellent at resolving issues, and providing drafting for active use of collaboration and engagement between the public sector and industry.’
‘Deep knowledge of technology, sourcing and contracting as well as master services agreements.’
Key clients
- Aerocloud Systems
- AO World
- Biffa Group
- Bodycote
- Bolt
- Calisen Group (Holdings) Limited
- HMRC
- Honeywell
- Key Group
- MS3 Networks
Work highlights
Advising Transport for Greater Manchester and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority on four strategic IT procurements for a driver standards monitoring system; an audio visual announcement system; a cloud video management system; and a digital mobile radio solution for voice communication, all in support of bus franchising within Greater Manchester.
Advising the Ministry of Justice on the the GBP450m procurement of electronic monitoring services related to reform of UK offender services.
Advising The Hut Group on AI issues and three major IT projects relating to the contracts for e-commerce infrastructure and related services provided by THG to a prestigious luxury department store and a renowned British fashion and homeware retailer.
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.
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
Sarah Bell
Other key lawyers
Lee Brierley; Peter Brook; Paddy Dwyer; Matthew Cliff; Naomi Ross; David Booth