The offering at Burness Paull LLP stands out for its deep knowledge of statutory interpretation relating to procedures and the exercise of powers, acting for a wide variety of statutory bodies. Practice head Hazel Moffat is a key contact for regulatory bodies and government entities seeking advice on judicial reviews, regulatory investigations, and public inquiries, in addition to having extensive expertise in legislative drafting. Louise McErlean is recommended for her vast experience in statutory interpretation work and appeals to the Inner House, often representing both public and private sector clients. Noted for his ‘brilliant technical knowledge and experience’, Richard Lockhart is well-equipped to advise government bodies on the effects of proposed legislation on projects and procurement issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team are extremely responsive and accessible. They are able to provide us with clear advice and support delivered in non-legalistic language. Particularly good at proposing and discussing options in litigation cases.’

  • ‘Louise McErlean is knowledgeable and very accessible. The service and advice she provides are well above what I would normally expect from an associate.

  • ‘A really knowledgeable team with an excellent client focus, and the ability to provide a full service offering for any query or project.’

  • ‘Richard Lockhart - brilliant technical knowledge and experience, offering advice for any situation, very well tailored to the client.’

Key clients

  • Trussell Trust
  • Odjfell Technology
  • Scottish Public Services Ombudsman
  • Independent Monitoring Authority
  • Scottish Enterprise
  • Scottish Funding Council
  • Scottish Football Association
  • Lothian Buses
  • St Andrews Ambulance Association
  • Scottish Legal Complaints Commission

Work highlights

Advised a global tobacco company on the Scottish Government's plans for further regulation of e-cigarettes and a potential ban on disposable vapes under proposed regulations.
Acting for Scottish Futures Trust Limited in connection with legislative and regulatory developments for the financing and delivery of public EV charging infrastructure across Scotland.
Advised a senior leadership team member of the Post Office Limited in relation to their participation in the public inquiry into the Post Office Horizon IT scandal.

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.

Hazel Moffat

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Louise McErlean

Practice head

Hazel Moffat

Other key lawyers

Louise McErlean; Richard Lockhart; Rebecca Roberts