The property arm of the dispute resolution group at Harper Macleod LLP advises domestic councils, public authorities and private corporations, and is jointly chaired by Andrew Upton and Sandy Hastie. The practice is well-regarded for its work with key stakeholders on leasing litigation, title disputes, and crofting matters. Upton regularly argues before the Lands Tribunal and has showcased a strong track record in handling dilapidation claims. John McHugh uses his judicial experience and knowledge of commercial real estate to advise on the enforcement of lease obligations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Andrew Upton has kept us updated with progress on our legal matter regularly, and I value his clear and detailed communication.’
- 'An excellent property litigation team.'
- ‘They do give a very good service, take time to listen and find solutions to the issues we have.’
- ‘Jennifer Grosvenor was very good and won our legal dispute. She provided regular feedback and quality advice.'
- 'The team offers professional and timely support from the team.'
- ‘Harper McLeod has a long history of delivering excellent work across a broad spectrum of practice areas, including property litigation.’
- 'John McHugh is very commercial and gives good quality succinct advice.'
Key clients
- Scottish Government
- Forestry and Land Scotland
- Allied Irish Bank (GB)
- National Car Parks Ltd
- Fred. Olsen Renewables
- William Hill Organization Limited
- Halfords Limited
- Cairngorms National Park Authority
- J.G. Martin Plant Hire Limited
- Shell Pensions Trustees Limited
- City of Edinburgh Council
- The Highland Council
- NatureScot
- Kuehne + Nagel
- Wheatley Group
- Link Housing Group Limited
- City Property Glasgow (Investments) LLP
- B&M Retail Limited
Work highlights
Acting for Rex Properties Limited in a c.£750,000 claim for dilapidations and loss of rent arising out of a commercial lease.
Acting for a client in his defence of proceedings to recover possession of three properties, with a collective value of £3.5m, within a £4m estate to satisfy a £2m debt.
Acting for a subsidiary of the Glenmorangie Company in its successful opposition to Lands Tribunal proceedings to discharge a title condition from land adjacent to its £35m bottling facility preventing residential development.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Andrew Upton; Sandy Hastie
Other key lawyers
John McHugh; Jennifer Grosvenor; Lewis Kemp