With a focus on acting for an array of housing associations and local authorities, Harper Macleod LLP has extensive experience across a broad spectrum of construction mandates. Leadership responsibilities are split between Michael Conroy, Euan Pirie, and John McHugh. Conroy acts for a diverse roster of developers, contractors, and funders. Pirie is noted for his prowess by clients in the education, housing, and manufacturing sectors, while McHugh’s disputes expertise spans litigation, arbitration, and mediation. Catriona Kemp is highly skilled at handling PPP and PFI projects.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- There is real care provided by the staff team. Also, the knowledge base they have allows for meaningful discussions around issues and swift resolution of problems.
- HM has an excellent team structure that covers all necessary disciplines. They also have a team that cares about their clients and ensures that they provide the best counsel. They are also a team of innovators who are constantly reviewing how they can improve matters for their clients. I believe this is their strongest asset.
- In particular, Partner Bobby Murray (in dispute resolution) provides a professional, knowledgeable, and at all times expedient service and goes beyond the norm in providing solutions to extremely complex legal matters.
- Attention to detail and very customer-friendly; expedient response and engagement.
- Bobby Murray is a standout lawyer in Scotland. He is a very friendly and approachable individual. That is not to detract in any way from his outstanding legal knowledge and litigation skills. I am of the view that Bobby gets the best possible results for his clients as a result of these combined factors. He is a pragmatic lawyer but understands the need to fight for a client's interests when it is important.
- I have worked with Bobby Murray over many months and have experienced excellent service, including working late when a sudden important deadline appears. Bobby's explanations are clear and detailed, and he does not assume any previous knowledge of legal jargon. His emails are clear and concise, with it being obvious the type of response and timing needed.
- Good use is made of other members of the team if a different area of expertise is required.
- David Kerr, as a partner, provides oversight and perspective that gives direction to the excellent lawyers below him. I would single out Stephen Nicolson and Andrew Melville as being particularly hard-working and astute associates/senior lawyers.
- The team benefits from some exceptional individual lawyers who work well as a team.
Key clients
- The Scottish Government
- Historic Environment Scotland
- Caledonia Housing Association
- North Ayrshire Council
- B & M Retail Ltd
- Jensen Hughes
- Fife Council
- Scottish Borders Housing Association
- Glasgow City Council
- Pulpex Limited
- McAleer & Rushe Contracts UK Ltd
- Interpath Advisory Ltd
- Eildon Housing Association
- Hub North Scotland Limited
Work highlights
Advising the Scottish Government with the establishment of the Safer Buildings Accord.
Advising Hub North Scotland Ltd on the Peterhead Community Campus hub DBDA Project.
Advising Eildon Housing Association on the design and build contract for new social housing.
Lawyers
Next generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Michael Conroy; Euan Pirie; John McHugh
Other key lawyers
Catriona Kemp