Acting for public sector bodies across Wales, including health boards, local authorities and education institutions, Blake Morgan LLP provides procurement, employment, planning and commercial law support to its clients. The firm also advises government bodies on policy and administrative issues. At the head of the practice, Eve Piffaretti specialises in health and social care law. Penri Desscan is well-versed in PPP and procurement matters, while litigation expert Joanne Thompson acts for the NHS in inquiries. Within the team, Sarah Whittle represents clients in judicial review and procurement challenges. Daniel Taylor is another key name, supporting local authorities in litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The individuals we work with at Blake Morgan stand out for their professionalism, clarity of advice, and strong understanding of the higher education landscape. This includes: Matthew Smith (Partner) Eve Piffaretti (Partner and Head of Office) Ben Short (Director of Innovation and Technology)
- I mainly converse with Richard Jones. He is very quick to answer and never makes me feel that I am asking daft questions. The response is always easy to interpret, which helps in passing the information on to others.
- The practice is unique as they specialize in Mental Health and the Mental Health Act. The team has strengths in this area, which is what my interactions are based around. They are quick to respond and very efficient, ensuring that the questions asked are answered fully and seek further clarity if needed. The firm is always willing to answer my questions, and I do not feel that I am being an inconvenience and always have time to relay information.
- Jo Thompson, Sarah Whittle, and Trish d'Souza are very strong in the public law area; they are experienced and personable.
- Strength and depth of knowledge. Practical. Always available when needed.
- Penri Desscan, Tomos Lewis, and Sian Jones have excellent knowledge and practicality.
Key clients
- The NHS in Wales
- Health & Care Professions Council
- Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
- Welsh Ministers
- NHS England
- Education Workforce Council
- Welsh Language Commissioner
- Senedd Cymru
- Welsh & English Local Authorities
- Social Care Wales
- Dysgu
- Council for Licensed Conveyancers
Work highlights
Advised the seven Health Boards in Wales and successfully defended them in respect of a judicial review challenge issued against them concerning the decision of the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee to adopt recommendations regarding the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service.
Advising the Welsh Government in relation to the handback arrangement at the end of PFI arrangement relating to the Bute Avenue project in Wales.
Advising on the Cardiff Council and Transport for Wales collaboration to deliver a new tram between Cardiff Central and Cardiff Bay.
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 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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Daniel Taylor
Practice head
Eve Piffaretti
Other key lawyers
Joanne Thompson; Delme Griffiths; Claire Rawle; Matthew Smith; Paula Kathrens; Penri Desscan; Sara Hanarahan; James Egan; Jo Rees; Tomos Lewis; Sian Jones; Louise Howells; Lee Fisher; Paul Caldicott; Paul Duggan; Richard Jones; Sarah Whittle; Daniel Taylor