Harper Macleod LLP is home to a well-experienced local government team capable of advising on judicial reviews, housing law matters, public procurement and marine economy projects. The team is jointly led by James McMorrow and Jennifer Jack. McMorrow is reputed for the depth of his expertise in contractual and regulatory matters, while Jack leads the firm’s dispute resolution practice. Euan Pirie is a name to note for procurement of accommodation projects, and Calum Gee’s wide-ranging disputes expertise spans from human rights and civil liberties matters to the implementation of EU law.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The team headed by Jennifer Jack and Calum Gee is the go-to team for local authorities. They are the trusted team used by almost every authority in Scotland. They have unrivaled experience and skill in this area of the law without being unnecessarily aggressive.
- I have been impressed by the support and commitment shown by the team at Harpers over a variety of different sectors impacting a local authority. The team led by Calum Gee for homelessness and housing matters has been exemplary, becoming an integral part of the team when challenges arise. Jennifer Jack is a trusted advisor dealing with various contentious matters and brings calm to tricky situations with her depth of knowledge. Andrew Upton is a confident solicitor who stepped into a hearing at short notice without missing a beat. Angus Brown has navigated a difficult and complex case with infinite professionalism.
- Harper Macleod has a diverse offering of services that matches the challenges faced by local authorities. The number and breadth of experience mean that there is always someone to assist, even in the most novel or tricky cases. Each of the lawyers I have dealt with has been dedicated, receptive, proactive, and collegiate. They all make it easy to instruct and be part of the team.
- Harper Macleod has an enviable local government practice. They act for a wide variety of local authorities across the whole array of legal issues arising, including housing law, age assessments, licensing, judicial review, personal injury, and data protection. The team is led by exceptional partners, but the expertise extends to the more junior members of the team.
- Calum Gee is exceptional, very knowledgeable, and approachable. He provides pragmatic advice and has good response times. He is aware of key issues, case law, and deadlines. Clare McGeough, in the same team, is very helpful, attentive, and approachable.
- Excellent, from partner to assistant. The team that deals with local government law is very competent in the subject matter, from partner to assistant. They are approachable as well. They have always managed to provide competent advice and arrange excellent representation even at very short notice. That removes some of the stress from difficult situations.
- Calum Gee and Jennifer Jack have been invaluable in helping to navigate through some very difficult situations. The associates and assistants are excellent as well.
- Jennifer Jack and Calum Gee are each the leading people in the market.
Key clients
- Glasgow City Council
- City of Edinburgh Council
- Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA)
- Fife Council
- Inverclyde Council
- Perth and Kinross Council
- Orkney Islands Council
- The Highland Council
- West Dunbartonshire Council
- West Lothian Council
- East Lothian Council
Work highlights
Advising Orkney Islands Council on the Scapa Deep Water Quay Project.
Acted for Glasgow City Council in a high-profile appeal which was heard before the UK Supreme Court (UKSC) in January 2025, successfully resisting the judicial review appeal on all grounds.
Advising The City of Edinburgh Council (“CEC”) on the complex, high-profile and sensitive issue of transgender rights following the UKSC’s decision in For Women Scotland v Scottish Ministers.
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.
Practice head
James McMorrow; Jennifer Jack
Other key lawyers
Euan Pirie; Calum Gee