Counting a stellar variety of sports clubs, governing bodies and Olympic federations among its key roster of clients, Irwin Mitchell is noted for its expansive capabilities across litigation, IP and regulatory issues arising from a host of different sports, including football, rugby and cricket. Gatwick-based Tom Barnard heads up the firm’s offering with his vast experience in advising athletes, agents, clubs and commercial entities with complex and high-profile issues, alongside Chichester’s Michael Taylor, who bolsters the practice with his considerable knowledge in the realm of tax compliance. In Brighton, Martha Kent is well-versed in a diverse array of commercial issues, such as IP rights and contractual management for a litany of sports teams.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'I have worked with a number of the Partners and their teams over many years. The consistency in knowledge, quality of work and care for client, exceeds many others that I have worked with! We continue to work as a team where viable to ensure best outcomes for clients and each other, as businesses!'
- 'All of the partners care greatly for clients and are highly professional.'
Key clients
- UK Athletics
- Otmar Szafnauer
- James Ellington
- Millwall FC
- Pure Gym
- Gravity Fitness
- British Rowing
Work highlights
Acted for UK Athletics across its entire business, including disciplinary cases prosecuted by UK Athletics, European Championship hosting agreements and joint venture agreements.
Advised Otmar Szafnauer, Formula 1 CEO and Team Principle of Aston Martin F1 Team and Alpine F1 Team, in connection with his departure from Aston Martin F1 Team.
Advised Millwall Football Club planning permission for a brand new, state of the art, football academy and training ground in West Kingsdown, Sevenoaks.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Tom Barnard; Michael Taylor
Other key lawyers
Martha Kent