Praised for its ‘deep knowledge base’ and ’determination’, the team at Harper Macleod LLP is singled out by clients as leader in the field. The firm has extensive experience across a broad range of industries, with teams in Edinburgh and Glasgow, led by Sandy Hastie and David Kerr respectively. The team regularly handles high-value cases in the banking, finance, and insurance spaces. Key members of the team include E-Ming Fong, who provides global commercial litigation expertise, and John McHugh, who has over 25 years of experience. Andrew MacKenzie supports the team, and Adam de Ste Croix is also a notable figure.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Harper Macleod is stacked with talented people. They have real strength in depth, which means they are able to resource and run the biggest litigation in Scotland with ease. One of their key capabilities is their first-class ability to manage litigation of any size.’
'All of the individuals I have dealt with are knowledgeable, diligent and professional. They take great care in explaining detailed legal matters so that they are fully and properly understood.'
‘David Kerr is a partner in the team. He stands out as being an extremely tough litigator. He always fights his client's corner with 100% whilst simultaneously being able to deliver trusted advice to them about the reality of litigation. Andrew Mackenzie's key qualities are the intelligence he brings to bear on any litigation in which he is involved. He thinks about all of the angles and really seeks to maximise every point in his client's favour.'
'The calibre and professionalism of the people sets Harper Macleod apart.'
‘Superb team of excellent litigators with deep expertise in the court process and who are prepared to fight for their clients.’
‘E-Ming Fong is a leading figure in the practice area and very experienced. She offers excellent and pragmatic advice. Andrew Mackenzie is a solicitor advocate with significant courtroom experience who is always prepared to fight for his clients' interests.’
‘They're a substantial firm in the Scottish litigation market with a lot of talented individuals in their team and a broad range of experience to call on.’
‘John McHugh is a highly experienced and engaging litigator and always a pleasure to work with. E-Ming Fong is a thorough and determined litigator who has good client relationships.'
‘The firm has a deep knowledge base and a determination to obtain the right result for its clients. There is also a willingness to co-operate across practice disciplines, and the combined expertise can bring unexpected insights to a problem and enable a bespoke response.'
‘Adam de Ste Croix is extremely hard-working, bringing a huge brain and much hard-won experience to bear. His legal insights are enlightening and translate quickly to action. He is always able to bring tricky matters back to rational discussion and to press for reasonable outcomes.'
Key clients
- Nike
- Halfords Group
- Renault
- Harris Tweed Hebrides Limited
- Scania
- B&M Retail Limited
- Optical Express Group
- Nero Holdings Limited
- Greenpeace
- SalMar
Work highlights
Acted for a client in a $350m action against the purchasers of his shareholding in an oil & gas company and their solicitors based on an unlawful means conspiracy.
Successfully represented Centenary 6 Ltd at proof (trial) in a £40m loss of opportunity claim against solicitors, concerning legal advice given which resulted in the irretrievable loss of a prior right of action.
Advised Hillhouse Quarry Group Limited on its defence to a Court of Session claim by Lagan Asphalt (UK) Limited.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Sandy Hastie; David Kerr
Other key lawyers
E-Ming Fong; John McHugh; Andrew MacKenzie; Adam de Ste Croix