Noted by clients for its ‘unrivalled’ breadth and knowledge, the team at Harper Macleod LLP is spread between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Hailed by clients as the ’best government public lawyer working in Scotland’, practice co-head Jennifer Jack is well-equipped to handle judicial reviews and appeals against court, tribunal, and public authority decisions. Co-head James McMorrow is a key contact for local authorities and public bodies, often advising on public procurement and commercial matters. The ‘excellent’ Calum Gee routinely assists clients with the interpretation of legislation and statutory procedures, in addition to acting in public inquiries.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is really unrivalled in terms of the breadth of their experience and the depth of their knowledge. Their handle on government-specific public law matters is second to none.’
‘Jennifer Jack is head and shoulders the best government public lawyer working in Scotland at the moment.’
‘The team at Harper Macleod is incredibly responsive. They take the time to understand the needs of my organisation and Member Councils.’
‘Jennifer Jack leads the team well and allows members to play an active part as appropriate. Calum Gee ensures we feel supported and always offers an opportunity for us to discuss various options to ensure we get the right support.’
‘Approachable and friendly. Excellent advice in that it is both practical and legally sound. ’
‘Calum Gee and Jennifer Jack - Approachable. Deal with requests quickly. Both provide practical, sensible and legally sound advice. Excellent solicitors.’
- ‘Clare McGeough has done excellent work in a number of our cases.’
Key clients
- The Scottish Ministers
- City of Edinburgh
- Glasgow City Council
- Cairngorms National Park Authority
- Fife Council
- Scottish Legal Complaints Commission
- Environmental Standards Scotland
- Perth & Kinross Council
- Musicians’ Union
- Greenpeace UK
- NatureScot
Work highlights
Representing the Scottish Ministers in the Public Inquiry into the planning, commissioning, design & construction of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow and the Royal Hospital for Children & Young People.
Representing COSLA as a Core Participant in the UK and Scottish Covid-19 Public Inquiries.
Advising the Highland Council on its proposal to introduce a levy on tourists and visitors who stay in the Scottish Highlands, under the power given to local authorities by the Visitor Levy Act 2024.
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.
Calum Gee
Practice head
Jennifer Jack; James McMorrow
Other key lawyers
Calum Gee; Clare McGeough