Burness Paull LLP is noted for taking a ‘client-orientated approach’ in its pensions practice, which is spearheaded by the ’experienced, pragmatic and extremely knowledgeable’ Margaret Meehan. The team focuses on disputes, the creation of new pensions products and changes to benefits packages. Meehan often acts for blue chip clients whilst Sarah Phillips advises on the full range of matters related to defined benefit schemes. Liam Young stands out for his knowledge of TUPE transfers and insolvency matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'‘Margaret Meehan and Liam Young are a dream team. Their skills, knowledge and experience complement each other perfectly.'
'Eilidh Robertson is extremely diligent, always on time and a real pleasure to work with.’
‘Margaret Meehan is experienced, pragmatic and extremely knowledgeable. Hugely practical and calm and always keeps us right.'
'Sarah Phillips is absolutely at the top of her game.’
'The team provides high-quality commercial advice underpinned by a strong knowledge of the relevant law.'
'‘The team has an incredibly client-focused approach to everything they do.'
Key clients
- Phoenix Group
- Abrdn
- Ansell Healthcare Inc.
- Trustees of the Kwik Fit Group Pension and Life Assurance Scheme
- Trustees of the Church of Scotland pension schemes
- Trustees of the Scottish Milk Retirement Benefits Plan
- Kemira Oyj
- MiddleGround Capital
- Edinburgh Woollen Mill (in administration)
- Baker Hughes Limited
Work highlights
Advised the trustees of the Scottish Milk Limited pension scheme on a complex de-risking project and several intricate points relating to interpretation of the scheme’s governing documentation.
Advising the Phoenix group on a number of business-critical matters, both contentious and non-contentious.
Advising the trustees of Kwik Fit’s pension scheme on a range of pensions issues, including the implementation of auto-enrolment legislation; the implications of the removal of the statutory lifetime allowance; and the entitlement of members to tax protection.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Sarah Phillips
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Liam Young
Practice head
Margaret Meehan
Other key lawyers
Liam Young; Sarah Phillips; Eilidh Robertson; Richard MacDonald