Counting multinational tech conglomerates and international education providers among its key clients, DLA Piper specialises in negotiating global framework agreements and complex IT infrastructure projects. The team has vast expertise in overseeing the procurement of enterprise-wide IT systems and complex software development initiatives, with the ‘extremely pragmatic’ head John McKinlay primarily focusing on outsourcing affairs and tech contracts. Since joining the firm as partner in May 2023, Linzi Penman has stood out for her data protection work. Catriona Melton is knowledgeable on IT commercial matters, while Jamie O’Neill is noted for their IP expertise. All lawyers are based out of Edinburgh.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The differentiating factor for me is their effort to understand our business and give us focused advice tailored to our key priorities, rather than generic advice on legal issues.’
‘Linzi Penman is our core relationship contact. She is very responsive, and takes time to listen to our in-house team, meaning that the service we get from her team is generally excellent.’
‘This team provides practical advice with a quick turnaround with sensible fee arrangements.’
‘John McKinlay is approachable and extremely pragmatic with a good understanding of our business. He always makes himself available and quick to turn around work.’
'John McKinlay is a real leader in this area. His subject-matter knowledge is unsurpassed, and he combines this with excellent technical abilities and an open, engaging manner.'
Key clients
- Copperleaf
- Fidelity International
- Innovation Group
- Menzies Aviation
- Merlin Entertainments
- Pearson International
- Seatfrog
- Turnkey
- Virgin Money
- Wood Mackenzie
Work highlights
- Advised on the multi-jurisdictional appointment of a global outsourcing partner.
- Advised on the appointment of a global IT partner, to set up business critical IT infrastructure following the divestment of Wood Mackenzie from the Veritas Group.
- Advised on several business strategic Technology projects throughout 2023 for longstanding client, Merlin Entertainments.
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 associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Catriona Melton
Practice head
John McKinlay
Other key lawyers
Linzi Penman; Catriona Melton; Jamie O’Neill; Laura Maclennan