Brabners LLP has a broad sports practice spanning governance, commercial, regulatory, and employment matters. Lydia Edgar leads the team with expertise in employment-related issues, particularly in relation to high-profile appointments and exits. Paul Lunt is experienced in sports-related disputes, often with a media element, while Jason Smith advises international federations and national governing bodies, focusing on the exploitation of commercial rights including sponsorship, merchandising, and broadcasting. Colin Bell handles a wide range of commercial and contractual matters for clubs, agents, governing bodies, and individuals. Andrew McGregor specialises in football-related contracts, transfers, and regulatory compliance, and the ‘brilliant’ Catherine Forshaw focuses on regulatory and integrity issues, including anti-doping, safeguarding, and athlete welfare matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team is very approachable and adapts it advice to the individual client. As a legally qualified in-house legal adviser the level of advice required for me differs than for a layperson and this is reflected in how Brabners tailors its advice.'
- ‘Catherine Forshaw - A brilliant associate who will be a market leading partner in the near future. She is extremely knowledgeable about the sports sector, and committed to helping her clients. I would highly recommend her to any sports governing body involved in a dispute.'
Key clients
- Rezzil
- Skateboard GB
Work highlights
Advised several sports tech and esports businesses as well as Chester Racecourse Company and Basketball England in respect of their technology developments and innovation projects.
Lawyers
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.
Catherine Forshaw
Practice head
Lydia Edgar
Other key lawyers
Paul Lunt; Jason Smith; Colin Bell; Andrew McGregor; Catherine Forshaw; Matthew Lavelle