Brodies LLP‘s offering is noted for handling the full spectrum of parliamentary and public law issues, including the drafting of supplementary charters and acting in planning litigation. The ’exceptional’ Christine O’Neill leads the team with her vast knowledge of judicial review proceedings, public inquiries, and the drafting of legislation, often assisting charity and public sector clients. Charles Livingstone is noted for handling complex issues involving the interpretation of proposed legislation governing public sector bodies, membership organisations, and charities. Niall McLean routinely represents government bodies in disputes, while Douglas Waddell is recommended for his specialism in the drafting of harbour revision orders. Lauren Smith is a key name for statutory interpretation and contentious public law work, while Jamie Dunne has vast experience in the drafting of secondary and tertiary legislation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Deep understanding of complex issues pertinent to the public sector regulatory landscape in Scotland.’
‘Excellent grasp of the particular challenges that my office faces, with a range of partners available to address questions in specialist areas. Charles Livingstone is our first point of contact for all enquiries and understands our team and our needs well.'
‘Brodies understands our business and provides succinct, plain English advice, tailored to our specific needs. They are always quick to respond and will always prioritise requests when urgent matters arise. They cover a wide range of subjects, so we are always guaranteed to receive the best advice from an expert in the relevant area of law. ’
‘Christine O'Neill - as a recognised expert in public law, her advice covers all the bases. She provides clear and practical advice that we can apply with confidence.’
‘A collaborative approach with excellent communication has ensured a comprehensive understanding of every situation. For each assignment, an introduction was made to a specialist team member who always delivered a professional and knowledgeable response. Brodies display a level of proficiency which has proven invaluable.'
‘Charles Livingstone - Charles always ensures an extensive level of understanding is established, which provides the foundation to achieve outstanding legal protection whilst also generating a strong feeling of support. During communication, Charles always conveys a strong, knowledgeable, and professional tone, which commands respect and builds trust.’
‘We have dealt principally with Christine O'Neill in the last year. She is an exceptional lawyer.’
‘The team at Brodies were extremely well-informed, commercial and responsive in relation to the issues our mutual client faced, and shepherded us very capably through the Scottish legal process.’
'Brodies provides an exceptional service in terms of efficiency, speed of response and a genuine appreciation of the clients needs and objectives.'
'There is a genuine interest in the client and an open exchange of ideas both legal and practical. Working with Brodies has been a totally positive experience, professionally and personally.'
Key clients
- BG International
- Scottish Qualifications Authority
- Scottish Government
- Scotch Whisky Association
- Gambling Commission
- Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body
- University of Edinburgh
- Scottish Legal Complaints Commission
- Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland
- Kenneth Mackenzie Limited
Work highlights
Acting for BG International (part of Shell UK) in a high-profile judicial review brought by environmental NGOs concerning consent for the development of the Jackdaw gas field in the North Sea.
Acting for JUSTICE in contributing to the development of a handbook for new MPs, including detailed chapters on the rule of law, public law, judicial review, and individual rights.
Advising Zero Waste Scotland on its transition to non-departmental public body status, including advice on the full suite of statutory duties applying to public authorities.
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.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Lauren Smith
Practice head
Christine O'Neill
Other key lawyers
Charles Livingstone; Douglas Waddell; Niall McLean; Lauren Smith; Jamie Dunne