Carson McDowell’s technology sector team is skilled at advising public bodies in procuring IT infrastructure. The team notably acts for both Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University, which it has recently advised on a range of contracts related to the ownership and use of IT systems and data. ‘Stand out’ team head Dawn McKnight is an expert in IT-related due diligence and is routinely called upon by the firm’s growing cybersecurity clientele. Litigator Peter Guzhar provides advice on contentious IT matters, including licensing disputes, while Karla Dooey specialises in software development mandates.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Market leader in the field - probably unrivalled.’
‘Knowledge of the sector and familiarity with the court process.’
‘We have had a relatively longstanding relationship with the company, and so they know our business and have always sought to be accommodating. Our work has been somewhat complex and the team have done their best to ensure they understand this to help ensure the best outcome for us.’
‘The individuals I have dealt with have been professional and supportive during some challenging times for our business. In general, this is a common thread for our dealings with any of the partners in the business, in that they often feel like an extension to our own team.’
‘Excellent market knowledge, turnaround speed and client engagement.’
‘The team has knowledge of the market and knowledge of the client, and the client's interests. The standout partner in the IT and telecoms practice is Dawn McKnight.’
Key clients
- Volkswagen AG (via Büsing Müffelmann & Theye)
- Ulster University
- Queens University Belfast
- Firmus Energy Distribution Limited
- Northern Ireland Electricity Networks Limited
- Belfast Harbour Commissioners
- Londonderry Port and Harbour Commissioners
- RTE (Raidió Teilifís Éireann)
- Multiplex Broadcasting Services NI (MBS)
- Northern Ireland Electricity Networks
- Modern Democracy Limited
- Clearpool Limited
Work highlights
Advising NIE Networks limited on the procurement of its full range of IT Managed Services, including service desk, telecoms services, infrastructure and data centre services, software licencing, invoicing, resource augmentation and invoice processing.
Advised RTE and Multiplex Broadcasting Services NI on an agreement with Arqiva for multiplexing, distribution and transmission services as well as maintenance of the antenna equipment required for broadcast and transmission.
Advised Volkswagen AG (via Büsing Müffelmann & Theye) on Northern Irish consumer law matters relating to the global rollout of digital services provided to the client’s consumers through in-car “infotainment” systems.
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.
Practice head
Dawn McKnight
Other key lawyers
Peter Guzhar; Karla Dooey