Harper Macleod LLP > Glasgow, United Kingdom > Firm Profile
Harper Macleod LLP Offices
THE CA'D'ORO
45 GORDON STREET
GLASGOW
G1 3PE
United Kingdom
Harper Macleod LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
The ‘strong and well-respected team’ at Harper Macleod LLP handles a broad range of matters, such as pursuing claims against professionals in the banking, financial services and insurance sectors, in addition to negligence claims against engineers, architects and surveyors. Praised as ‘thoroughly knowledgeable, highly professional and proactive’, David Kerr jointly leads the team alongside Sandy Hastie. Other key contacts in the group include John McHugh, who focuses on cases involving contractual, construction and corporate elements, E-Ming Fong and Andrew MacKenzie, who is commended as ‘intelligent and a formidable opponent’.Practice head(s):
Sandy Hastie; David Kerr
Other key lawyers:
E-Ming Fong; Andrew MacKenzie; Adam de Ste Croix; Miranda Cannibal
Testimonials
‘Harper Macleod is an excellent Scottish firm, with a very strong and well-respected team. The department has real depth of talent.’
‘The team has in-depth experience in professional negligence matters. Their key strengths are their professionalism, proactive approach to their client’s cases, and extremely pragmatic and commercial advice. They are definitely market leaders in this field.’
‘Adam de Ste Croix instills confidence and trust. He is a credit to the firm and the law profession.’
‘David Kerr is a leading partner in the firm. He is a very driven and commercially-minded partner, with an astute judgment of a case’s strengths and weaknesses.’
‘Andrew MacKenzie is intelligent and a formidable opponent.’
‘E-Ming Fong is very good with clients and consistently thorough in exploring every possible angle for them.’
‘Andrew Mackenzie is exceptionally bright, with amazing attention to detail.’
‘David Kerr is thoroughly knowledgeable, highly professional and proactive.’
Key clients
Centenary 6 Limited
Sanctuary Housing Association
Harbour Homes Ltd
Shetland Islands Council
Arc Legal Insurances Ltd
CorpAcq Ltd
Coach Stores Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised Robert Kidd in a $350 million action against the purchasers of his shareholding in an oil & gas company and their solicitors based on an unlawful means conspiracy.
- Represented Centenary 6 Ltd at proof in a £40 million loss of opportunity claim against TLT solicitors.
- Advised Sanctuary in a substantial negligence dispute arising out of a large contract for energy improvement works to be carried out by E.ON Energy Services.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 1
Praised for its ‘extremely professional’ service, Harper Macleod LLP is renowned for its extensive work with registered social landlords (RSLs). The dedicated housing team also acts for the Scottish Government, local authorities, and a range of private sector bodies. The group is under the joint leadership of Derek Hogg, who provides governance, constitutional and funding advice, and James McMorrow, who is experienced in corporate, regulatory, and public procurement matters. Collette Miller regularly supports RSLs with tenancy issues, shared ownership matters, and boundary disagreements. Euan Pirie concentrates on the construction aspects of new-build housing projects, and David McIndoe brings expertise in shared equity schemes.Practice head(s):
Derek Hogg; James McMorrow
Other key lawyers:
Euan Pirie; David McIndoe; Collette Miller; Natalie Dissake
Testimonials
‘The team at Harper Macleod are extremely professional in all their interactions with our organisation. The advice provided is comprehensive and robust. They are more responsive than other firms and have a very positive outlook.’
‘Derek Hogg has been a great support to our organisation. He is helpful, supportive and professional at all times. Derek is clearly very experienced and knowledgeable and has been able to support our organisation on a wide variety of matters.’
Key clients
Link Group Limited
Wheatley Housing Group and Spire View HA
Kingdom Housing Association and St Andrews University
Caledonia HA
Cunninghame HA
Clyde Valley HA
Govan HA
Link Group
Scottish Borders HA
West of Scotland HA
Kingdom HA, Eildon HA
Grampian HA,
Cunninghame HA
Caledonia HA
Cairn HA
Govan HA
Melville HA
Berwickshire HA
Hillcrest Homes Scotland and Hebridean Housing Partnership
Fife and West Lothian Councils.
Scottish Borders, Caledonia, Govan and Fife HA’s
Scottish Borders Housing Association Limited
Fife Council
Ark Housing Association Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Link Group in establishing a new £70 million sustainable finance facility from Bank of Scotland, including margin-linked detailed sustainability targets.
- Acted for St Andrews University and Kingdom Housing Association in relation to a postgraduate “student village” joint venture at a site in St Andrews, which is funded on an income-strip basis.
- Acted for Fife Council in the acquisition of multiple housing development sites across Fife, and the negotiation of construction contracts with various developers/constructors.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 1
Boasting a broad commercial offering across the sports sector, ranging from employment to IP and data protection, the Harper Macleod LLP team is praised as ‘approachable’ and ‘responsive’ by the national governing bodies and sports clubs it represents. The practice’s expertise covers the contentious arena, frequently advising on unlawful discrimination, defamation, and financial breach claims. The ‘hugely impressive’ Glasgow-based head Bruce Caldow has considerable experience of handling matters in the football, rugby, and golf spaces; Lorne Crerar stands out for his work in sporting discipline issues; and Tom Thomas specialises in broadcasting and IP rights affairs. Carolyn Morgan primarily focuses on property-related disputes in a sports context, while both David Kerr and Edinburgh-based Jamie Watt concentrate on complex sponsorship agreement topics.Practice head(s):
Bruce Caldow
Other key lawyers:
Lorne Crerar; Tom Thomas; Jamie Watt; David Kerr; Carolyn Morgan; Andrew Maxwell
Testimonials
‘David Kerr is an extremely able lawyer who combines a total commitment to his clients with a shrewd grasp of the commercial realities in any litigation. In my view he is a standout performer in this field.’
‘Bruce Caldow is a hugely impressive partner with a calm and reassuring approach. His advice clearly comes from a position of a deep understanding of the technical legal matters together with extensive experience of the sector. He communicates in a clear, pragmatic and easily understandable manner.’
‘I have been working with Andrew Maxwell on and off for nearly three years. Throughout this time, he has been a calm and reassuring source of advice and counsel. He has an impressive depth of experience coupled with a sound radar for recognising when a matter needs to be escalated. The builds a confidence and trust in his input.’
‘A very responsive law firm who cater for all of our needs as a governing body of sport. They provide a diverse range of expertise in providing an excellent level of service and advice. And with it are very different in approach, spending time and making an effort to understand our culture, values and people.’
‘Approachable, responsive, evidently very well qualified with depth of experience, authentic and prepared to spend the time understand us and our people. Harper MacLeod feel like they are part of the team.’
‘Vast knowledge and expertise. Highly regarded within the sporting sector in Scotland. Excellent collaboration abilities. Well thought of by a wide range of partners. The people have an excellent way of working, a balance of knowledge, skill, professionalism whilst being friendly, supportive and understanding.’
‘Bruce Caldow and Andrew Maxwell are extremely professional and supportive with a friendly and approachable demeanour. Expertise is second to none. Always willing to go above and beyond to assist and provide clear guidance in a way that is understandable to a non-legal mind. A strong and trustworthy partnership has been built up over a number of years.’
Key clients
sportscotland
Cricket Scotland
Cricket Scotland
Scottish Rugby
Scottish Rugby
Commonwealth Games Scotland
Enduro Sports & UCI CWC 2023 Events
Airdrie FC
UK sports councils equality group & trans participation
Scottish Athletics
Work highlights
- Re-appointed as sole legal advisers for sportscotland’s “expert resource” available to SGBs following competitive tender, continuing to provide the full spectrum of support across all of Scottish sport.
- Acting for Cricket Scotland across multiple complex investigations together with EDI specialists, Sporting Equals, whilst separately supporting the governance review required and helping Cricket Scotland separately explore new opportunities across participation and commercial streams.
- Supporting long-term client Scottish Rugby in the implementation of new governance arrangements, whilst Bruce Caldow totted up his 20th season supporting the men’s national side with player representation and advisory work, when red cards or citings arise.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland Tier 2
Demonstrating a ‘depth of experience’ across a ‘range of specialisms’, Harper Macleod LLP has a corporate and commercial offering that spans Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, Elgin, Thurso and Shetland. The ‘diligent’ team acts on both the buy side and sell side of an array of transactions with a growing focus on large and listed businesses, and also has a dedicated team focused on commercial contract and infrastructure instructions. Helming the practice is Christopher Kerr, who has a broad sector approach and an impressive book of cross-border work, handling in-bound private equity investments and management buy-outs. Craig McKerracher, who also serves as joint head of the firm’s healthcare group, offers private M&A experience and works alongside Kerr on the group’s most consequential transactions, while Stephen Chan‘s remit covers both corporate and corporate finance mandates as well as operating the China country desk; he takes the lead on a number of deals involving Asian counter-parties. Amy Mackenzie is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Christopher Kerr
Other key lawyers:
Craig McKerracher; Stephen Chan; Amy Mackenzie; Fiona Strang
Testimonials
‘I have always found HM willing to do what was necessary and, after understanding exactly what was needed, very diligent and accurate to deal with.’
‘The solicitor I deal with is extremely dedicated to providing a service that I require and will go the extra distance to ensure that happens.’
‘Range of specialisms and depth of experience in those specialisms.’
‘Chris Kerr and Craig McKerracher provide excellent service in their respective fields.’
‘Always a very personal service which makes me feel valued.’
‘Support and expertise you would expect from a large legal firm but with strong personal relationships. Understanding the needs and requirements of the individuals.’
Key clients
Ardersier Port (Scotland) Limited
G & A Barnie Group Limited
Craigton Foods Limited
Gael Force Group Limited
MacDonald Group
DFDS A/S
Forsyths Limited
Tritonia Scientific Ltd
McGowan Environmental Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised Ardersier Port (Scotland) Limited on Scots law matters relating to a £300m private-equity investment by Quantum Energy Partners.
- Advising Orkney Islands Council on the Scapa Deep Water Quay Project, a major infrastructure project at Scapa Flow, Orkney.
- Advised on the investment into Ross-shire Engineering Limited by private equity firm MML.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing Tier 2
With a ‘very responsive and commercial approach to work’, Harper Macleod LLP excels at providing licensing advice to a broad host of clients in the hospitality and retail sectors, particularly specialising in premises licence applications. A core component of the firm’s work focuses on petrol stations, with practice head Andrew Hunter providing ‘first-rate technical knowledge’ to clients such as Motor Fuel Limited and BP Oil with regards to premises and site acquisitions. Other work includes handling short-term letting applications and appearances, as well as acting in disputes. Often supporting Hunter on the firm’s key mandates, Angus Brown acts on a range of contentious and non-contentious work.Practice head(s):
Andrew Hunter
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Harper Macleod has a robust format for dealing with their clients.’
‘The individuals I have worked with at Harper Macleod have stood out by displaying their vast knowledge of the particular area I was involved in. I had several queries on a few areas of licensing and Andrew Hunter was able to address them all.’
‘On the particular issues I was dealing with, I was in court with Andrew Hunter and he vigorously defended my license, studied in depth all the complaints and answered each one of them individually. This is one reason that he has stood out.’
‘A very responsive and commercial approach to work. Not stuffy but very much hands on approach.’
‘Andrew Hunter is a truly lovely person to work with. Acute sense of relevant issues in cases he handles and able to give clients legally sound advice combined with understanding of practicalities of a situation. First-rate technical knowledge of licensing law.’
Key clients
Lidl Great Britain Limited
Motor Fuel Limited
Certas Energy UK Limited
Highland Fuels Limited
Sweeney’s Cruises
Greene King Retail Limited/ Belhaven Pubs Scotland
Shevies Limited
BP Oil UK Limited
TM Townsley Properties Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Lidl Great Britain Limited on its successful application to West Dunbartonshire Licensing Board for its new premises application in Alexandria.
- Acting for Motor Fuel Limited in multiple new premises licence applications for petrol station forecourts, particularly in securing the grant of new licences in North Lanarkshire following successful appeals to the Sheriff Court against earlier refusals for the same two premises.
- Acting for a private landlord in appeals and subsequent judicial review against Renfrewshire Council’s decision that she was not a fit and proper person to be a landlord and in so doing, clarifying the future looking aspect of the “fit and proper person” test in landlord registration.
Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 2
Harper Macleod LLP’s ‘well-established debt recovery practice’ houses a ‘large team of knowledgeable and experienced individuals’, who regularly act for public sector clients, individuals, and SMEs on a range of debt-related mandates. Natalie Dissake jointly leads the team alongside Andrew Hunter, providing long-term advisory services to clients and handling heritable property-related matters. The team is further bolstered by Eilidh Crawford and Lyndsay McMahon, who assist on litigation and insolvency mandates.Practice head(s):
Natalie Dissake; Andrew Hunter
Other key lawyers:
Eildih Crawford; Lyndsay McMahon
Testimonials
‘The team actively listen to our needs, tailor legal solutions, and maintain transparent communication throughout the process. Quick to respond, and great at keeping us up to date.’
‘Well-established debt recovery practice with large team of knowledgeable and experienced individuals, handling case work efficiently and effectively.’
‘Andrew Hunter and Natalie Dissake provide excellent advice when required.’
Key clients
Scottish Borders Housing Association
Accountant in Bankruptcy
Octopus Energy Limited
John W Grant & Son Limited
Stirling Park LLP
Travis Perkins Trading Company Ltd
HSS ProService Limited
City of Edinburgh Council
Matthew Clark Wholesale
NSCB Premium Finance Limited
Forsyth of Denny Limited
Scottish Government Debt Recovery
BDO LLP
Employment > Immigration Tier 2
Harper Macleod LLP assists private individuals through their immigration journey, from first entry to British citizenship, and supports corporations with sponsor licensing permissions and compliance. Bruce Caldow oversees the immigration practice, where Ashley Fleming is the main point of contact, an ‘innovative and pragmatic’ senior associate whose practice encompasses all aspects of immigration, nationality, and asylum law. Fleming collaborates closely with the firm’s dispute resolution department to defend judicial review claims for public sector clients and works with the family law practice on matters such as divorce and prenuptial agreements that involve immigration considerations.Practice head(s):
Bruce Caldow
Other key lawyers:
Ashley Fleming; Elizabeth Basi
Testimonials
‘Ashley Fleming is innovative and pragmatic .’
‘Rapid and comprehensive responses.’
‘Ashley Fleming has been very helpful with my enquiry and I am very happy with the communication and working with her. She is very professional in her field.’
‘The immigration team at Harper Macleod is professional and proficient.’
‘Ashley Fleming is thorough, efficient, and easy to work with. She has great attention to detail.’
Work highlights
Insurance > Medical negligence: pursuer Tier 2
With a dedicated personal injury and reparation department, Harper Macleod LLP is praised for its 'unwavering diligence and determination to investigate every avenue' and regularly handles matters concerning surgical negligence, misdiagnosis, and treatment and prescription errors. Heather Calderwood leads the team, handling delay-related disputes, while Amy Dickson focuses on wrongful death claims. Craig McKellar is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Heather Calderwood
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is headed up by the extremely able and experienced Heather Calderwood. The team strength’s is its unwavering diligence and determination to investigate every avenue and prepare the case to the highest standard whilst also managing client’s expectations in this very difficult area.’
‘Heather Calderwood is extremely able and experienced. She invariably finds a way to transform a difficult case into a resounding success. She is an iron fist in a velvet glove in the best possible sense because she maintains good relationships with those she works including in negotiations with opponents whist have a razor sharp focus on the best outcome for her client. Her work ethic is phenomenal.’
Work highlights
- Acting for a family in relation to the death of a relative following surgical error that was not noted or corrected at the time; followed by repeated failures to notice deterioration in their health as they developed sepsis resulting in death.
- Acting for a family following the death of a relative following a hospitals failure to correctly diagnose a treatable medical condition until it had reached a terminal stage.
- Acting for a client who suffered catastrophic and life changing injuries as a result of medical professionals failing to properly note and follow a patient’s medical history when dispensing medication.
Insurance > Personal injury: defender Tier 2
Harper Macleod LLP’s ‘well-organised and highly knowledgeable’ personal injury practice is situated within the firm's wider insurance department and regularly handles industrial disease, road traffic accident and employ and public liability cases. Practice head Heather Calderwood has considerable experience in catastrophic injury and fatal claims, while ‘established and confident practitioner’ Suzanne McGarrigle is instructed on Covid-19 industrial disease mandates. Assisting with spinal injury cases and litigation, Amy Dickson is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Heather Calderwood
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is well-organised and highly knowledgeable about relevant law, practice and procedure. Counsel’s papers are comprehensive and instructions are detailed and helpful.’
‘Experienced litigators handling significant value claims. The team bring a wealth of experience to their litigations. A personable team and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Suzanne McGarrigle is an established, confident practitioner. Without doubt a a subject matter expert on lung diseases.’
Insurance > Personal injury: pursuer Tier 2
Harper Macleod LLP’s ‘exceptional’ personal injury team provides support to clients on road traffic accident cases, in addition to employers’ and public liability mandates and catastrophic injury claims. ‘Extremely able and experienced’ Heather Calderwood spearheads the practice, leading on employers’ liability, catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. Calderwood is assisted by ‘outstanding’ personal injury specialist Amy Dickson, who regularly advises on occupational hazard matters. Craig McKellar is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Heather Calderwood
Other key lawyers:
Amy Dickson; Craig McKeller; Elizabeth Mitchell
Testimonials
‘I worked with Heather McLeod on a case and she left no stone unturned in her investigations and pursuit of the best possible outcome.’
‘Heather Calderwood is extremely able and experienced. She is an iron fist in a velvet glove, as she maintains good relationships with those she works with, including in negotiations with opponents, whist having a razor sharp focus on the best outcome for her client.’
‘Harper Macleod has an exceptional personal injury team. Great strength in depth. Cases are prepared with skill and care. Excellent client handling skills at all levels within the team.’
‘Amy Dickson is an outstanding lawyer. She has a very practical approach and achieves excellent results. Her ability to explain complex issues to her clients is second to none. Her clients are very fortunate to have her on their side.’
‘Craig McKellar is very bright and personable. He is conscientious and his cases are always very well prepared.’
‘The personal injury team at Harper Macleod are always excellent to work with. Their case preparation is thorough and they are always willing to go the extra mile for the clients. Their approach to risk is both realistic and robust, and will fight case on behalf of their clients where required.’
‘Amy Dickson is highly qualified and knowledgeable. She has an excellent rapport with her clients who clearly trust her advice and trust that she is doing the best for them.’
Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 2
The ‘tenacious, accurate, and experienced’ team at Harper Macleod LLP acts for a wide roster of clients, including rural property owners and private sector bodies, handling the full range of agricultural and estate mandates. The practice showcases a ‘vast wealth of knowledge’ in forestry, natural heritage, and crofting work. Graeme Nisbet leads the team, broadening the practice’s offering to include natural heritage and national park authority cases, while Calum MacLeod specialises in crofting, agricultural tenancies, and general rural property matters. Focusing on farm acquisition and expansion mandates, Tom Gray also leads on commercial forest sales, and tenancy implementation issues. Hannah McIntosh is another key contact in the team.Practice head(s):
Graeme Nisbet
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Tom Gray handled the sale of our land and further servitude rights with knowledge and efficiency. He was approachable and responsive.’
‘Individuals provide a sense of security, along with a personal touch and do provide a honest assessment with integrity and transparency. Tom Gray has provided an excellent service and has gained the trust and respect of myself and concluded the transaction with true professionalism.’
‘Strong team, enough resource to get the job done, tenacious, accurate and experienced.’
‘The team have a vast wealth of knowledge of a variety of rural matters, covering agricultural issues, disposal advice, disputes and boundary issues. They are flexible in their approach to dealing with new situations and always combine resources to give clear and concise advice that enable us to resolve most issues quickly.’
‘Tom Gray and Hannah McIntosh are both excellent and manage a large caseload efficiently and thoroughly, whilst keeping me informed of progress.’
‘Calum Macleod has a very good grasp of rural property law, including crofting, and how it applies to commercial deals in the countryside. He is not afraid of sticking to his guns where appropriate and necessary.’
‘Good local knowledge and relationships in the Inverness area. Experienced in country estate law.’
‘We dealt with Graeme Nisbet and he was extremely approachable and helpful. Nothing was ever too much bother. He was very patient in explaining legal jargon and what was possible in a particular situation.’
Key clients
Forestry and Land Scotland
Craignathro Farms Limited
The Langholm Initiative
The Firm of B&CC Taylor
Elderslie Golf Club
Scottish Forestry
Scaniport Estate
Keoldale Sheep Stock Club
NatureScot
King’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer
EnergieKontor UK Limited
Clydesdale Bank UK PLC
City of Edinburgh Council
HSBC Bank
Accountant in Bankruptcy
Ceannacroc Estate
Strathcluanie Limited
Tomchrasky Estate
Melness Crofters Estate
Garbh Allt Community Initiative
New Kelso Estate
Firm of B& J Mackay
Cunninghame Housing Association
Inchinnan Development Trust
Poultrade Limited
Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust
Work highlights
- Advised Forestry and Land Scotland in the sale of a commercial forest extending to over 1,350 acres at Peel Wood, Newcastleton.
- Advised Kilravock Christian Trust SCIO in the sale of portfolio of properties at Kilravock Castle and Estate, in the Highlands.
Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2
Harper Macleod LLP acts for social housing clients in the charity sector, instructing the team to negotiate and assist with financial objectives. The practice also regularly advises on the full range of data protection and regulatory matters. James McMorrow and Derek Hogg jointly lead the team, with extensive experience in acting for charities on commercial, regulatory, and compliance mandates. With a focus on contentious cases, Jennifer Jack handles judicial review appeals against public bodies and regulators. Fiona Killen is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
James McMorrow; Derek Hogg
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Kilravock Charity Trust
Bowls Scotland
ROHHAD Association
Grampian Housing Association Limited
Blackwood Homes and Care
retailTRUST
Inspiring Scotland
National Autistic Society
Wheatley Housing Group Limited
Caledonia Housing Association Limited
Dumfries and Galloway
Glasgow City Council
Work highlights
- Acted for Link in negotiating and finalising terms of a new £70.7 million term and revolving credit facility with Bank of Scotland, to be used in furtherance of Link Group’s affordable housing developments, including specific sustainability performance targets which, dependent upon them being met, will deliver improved loan pricing to Link as borrower, thereby evidencing the lender’s own “green finance” objectives.
- Acting for ICAS, the global professional membership organisation and business network for Chartered Accountants in relation to the dissolution of a Scottish charity, the Scottish Chartered Accountants’ Benevolent Fund and the transfer of its business and assets to a newly-incorporated Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation, ICAS Cares.
- Representing Greenpeace in two separate Judicial Reviews challenging consents by the UK Government to allow Shell UK and Equinor to produce oil and gas from the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil and gas fields respectively.
Private client > Family Tier 2
Harper Macleod LLP's family team is well-known for the handling the full gamut of multijurisdictional matters, including complex surrogacy cases. The team stands out due to its vast expertise in family law, child law, family mediation and trauma informed practice. Amanda Masson heads the team from Glasgow; alongside her work on high net worth financial provision cases, Masson has a growing practice in fertility law, surrogacy, and adoption. Jenny Smith is well-versed in financial provision cases, while Alexis Harper is particularly experienced in handling cases involving business interests. Karen Gibbons is known for assisting with child inclusive mediation from Edinburgh.Practice head(s):
Amanda Masson
Other key lawyers:
Alexis Harper; Jane Blackwood; Jenny Smith; Linda Walker; Karen Gibbons
Testimonials
‘Alexis Harper was great, she offered sound advice throughout and listened to all my concerns which for me made the process of my divorce easier.’
‘Alexis Harper has shown herself to be knowledgeable, diligent and experienced. At each step of the divorce process she has provided timely and appropriate advice in matters such as collating material for vouching and employing the services of a forensic accountant when necessary.’
‘Jenny Smith had empathy and understood my situation right away, and she listened. I felt she was really on my side and she took away a lot of the stress I had been experiencing. Jenny is very personable. Jenny knew how to deal with the opposing side very well, she handled it with just the right tone. I never had any doubts about Jenny’s knowledge and capabilities. Jenny took the time to understand my situation and what outcomes were important to me.’
‘This practice is unique, in my opinion, because the genuine desire to help is at the forefront of everything they do. When they were faced with difficulties, due to unforeseen circumstances, I remained a priority and the level of care and professionalism they provided was not effected. I can’t express my gratitude enough to Harper Macleod. Each person involved in my case regarded me as an individual and recognised my needs as a person and not just a client.’
‘Jenny Smith is a very talented solicitor who excels at black letter law and in person has a very constructive manner in meetings and communications.’
‘This is a firm prepared to search out and embrace new areas of family law, such as surrogacy and IVF. They are not afraid to tackle difficult international issues. At the same time they have a sympathy for the individual and a sensitive approach.’
‘Harper Macleod provide a very high quality service in the sphere of Family law. They operate literally across the whole of Scotland (including the northern and western isles) and provide a full range of legal services. ’
‘Amanda Masson has expertise across a wide range of family cases from adoptions to relocation, to divorce and financial provision. She builds good rapport with clients, is pragmatic and very well organised.’
Work highlights
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and executries Tier 2
Leveraging strong expertise in personal tax and trust matters, Harper Macleod LLP showcases ‘exceptional knowledge’ in matters concerning protection of assets and inheritance tax. The team also regularly advises on operating structures and family succession mandates. Accredited asset protection expert Pamela Niven leads the team, supported by Jacqueline Leslie, Julie Doncaster, and Leigh Beirne. Other key contacts in the group include Kathleen Martin and Lindsay MacEwen, who assist with executry administration of cross-border cases and personal injury trust preparation.Practice head(s):
Pamela Niven
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Lindsay MacEwen has great intelligence and knowledge, wrapped in a gentle and caring approach.’
‘A very friendly, approachable and helpful team. They conduct themselves in an open and professional manner, while offering the highest level of expertise and support to their clients.’
‘Pamela Niven is very personable and technically excellent, and despite having a busy team to run, she always finds time to speak with me if I need her assistance with anything.’
‘Lindsay MacEwen is a constant source of support for me and my clients. Nothing is too much work and she gets the job done quickly and efficiently. Lindsay has a very high level of expertise and I have always been impressed with her technical knowledge.’
‘The unique blend of professionalism and approachability, along with the ability to quickly understand and empathise with clients.’
‘Jacqueline Leslie has a long term commitment to private client and trustee client service.’
‘My main dealings are with Pamela Niven and Kathleen Martin, and what I appreciate is that they really take the time to get to know the client and understand their circumstances and objectives. They also work in a very dynamic and collaborative manner to achieve the optimal solution for our clients.’
‘Julie Doncaster demonstrates a great amount of technical knowledge, whilst providing a very personal and individual service to clients. We feel comfortable when we know our clients are dealing with Julie on any tax, trust or estate planning matters.’
Work highlights
- Advising high net worth client on private client and tax matters including asset portfolios, cross-border and domicile issues.
- Providing bespoke succession and inheritance tax planning advice in relation to farming and crofting client, with a view to maintaining business continuity, planning for future generations and mitigating inheritance tax.
- Advising client on all aspects of trust law, from creation to the ongoing administration and eventual wind up of trusts, as well as the taxation of trusts.
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
Praised for its ‘excellent knowledge and experience of public sector issues’, Harper Macleod LLP handles a wide range of project, employment, and governance matters for local authority clients. Commercial contracts and regulatory specialist James McMorrow jointly spearheads the team alongside Jennifer Jack, who leads on judicial reviews and disputes against regulatory bodies, in addition to representing local councils in major public inquiries. Partner Fiona Killen joined from Burness Paull LLP in June 2023, focusing on governance and constitutional advice and statutory appeals before the UK courts. Euan Pirie advises on high-profile procurements and engineering matters.Practice head(s):
James McMorrow; Jennifer Jack
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Jennifer Jack is experienced and provides sound advice. She is friendly, approachable and responds quickly to queries.’
‘Excellent knowledge and experience of public sector issues, and come up with innovative and collaborative solutions.’
‘Euan Pirie has excellent knowledge and experience of public sectors issues and getting solutions to them.’
‘Efficient and effective client management. Collaborative in approach to achieving innovative and practical solutions.’
Key clients
Glasgow City Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Fife Council
Inverclyde Council
Orkney Islands Council
The Highland Council
West Dunbartonshire Council
West Lothian Council
Perth and Kinross Council
Work highlights
- Acted for Glasgow City Council and City Property Glasgow in relation to a further part of its project to raise funding in order to fund a significant equal pay settlement agreed by the Council with its employees.
- Advising Inverclyde Council on the Inverkip City Region Deal Project in partnership with Scottish Power/Iberdrola.
- Advising Orkney Islands Council on the £200m+ Scapa Deep Water Quay Project, a major infrastructure project at Scapa Flow, Orkney.
Public sector > Parliamentary and public affairs Tier 2
Commended for its ‘excellent knowledge of the sector’, Harper Macleod LLP’s parliamentary and public affairs team acts for a wide range of clients, including government bodies, civil servants and charities, and handles judicial reviews, appeals against public authorities and regulators, and wider public procurement issues. The firm is jointly led by accredited experts Jennifer Jack and James McMorrow. Fiona Killen, whose ‘knowledge of the technicality of public law and its development over time is second to none’, joined from Burness Paull LLP in June 2023, and Calum Gee is another core member of the team.Practice head(s):
Jennifer Jack; James McMorrow
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Calum Gee and Jennifer Jack are experienced solicitors and are able to give sound advice on complicated matters. Both are friendly, approachable and will respond quickly to queries.’
‘The firm are so friendly and approachable. Positive, can-do attitude and willingness to put the client above billing. Excellent knowledge.’
‘Their excellent knowledge of the sector and innovative approaches to the service they provide, which displays willingness to adapt to a changing environment.’
‘Fiona Killen’s knowledge of the technicality of public law and its development over time is second to none. She is responsive and thoughtful in her discussions and is always considerate about, and mindful of, the challenges facing the public sector.’
‘Engaged and efficient, with lots of experience.’
‘Jennifer Jack is one of the leading public lawyers in Scotland.’
‘Calum Gee is an associate to watch.’
Key clients
Glasgow City Council
Cairngorms National Park Authority
Fife Council
Scottish Legal Complaints Commission
Environmental Standards Scotland
Perth & Kinross Council
Musicians’ Union
Greenpeace UK
NatureScot
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 2
Consistently handling multi-jurisdictional brand protection matters, new trade mark applications, and copyright infringement claims, the Harper Macleod LLP practice is renowned for its ‘excellent knowledge’. Splitting his time between Glasgow and Edinburgh, Jamie Watt leads the group, primarily focusing on cybersecurity and copyright law issues. Glasgow-based E-Ming Fong helps companies in safeguarding their IP rights, while Scott Kerr - who works in Edinburgh - is a data protection expert. Anne Cornelius is a further key contact in Glasgow.Practice head(s):
Jamie Watt
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Professional and efficient.’
‘Jamie Watt is excellent.’
‘Excellent knowledge, happy to help. Personable. Friendly and professional. Can-do attitude.’
‘Jamie Watt goes the extra mile. Client first, rather than billing.’
‘Very nice, smooth and always very professional cooperation in all areas of law.’
‘Jamie Watt is always very reactive and true professional.’
‘Jamie Watt is always responsive to my needs and has been proactive in making new and alternative suggestions to progress and resolve matters. He has helped us secure commercially valuable deals, providing advice both informative and effective.’
Key clients
Forest Research
Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Celtic Football Club
Aqua Pharma Group
The Musicians Union
Publishing Scotland
The Society of Authors
Scottish Mountaineering Trust
Timorous Beasties
Barrhead Travel
Work highlights
- Advising Wolfie’s Drinks Limited on its worldwide brand protection.
- Advised Jack and Victor Limited on a challenge by Jack Daniels, Inc. including successfully concluding appeal proceedings at the UK IPO.
- Advising the Musicians Union in relation to the amendment of UK copyright law, including the drafting and process of a private members bill at UK parliament.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
Bringing ‘great knowledge and expertise’, Tom Thomas leads the Harper Macleod LLP team, which specialises in framework services agreements, digital infrastructure projects, and licensing software solutions. Based out of Glasgow, Thomas is an expert in high-value tech contract work and cybersecurity matters, while from Edinburgh, Scott Kerr routinely collaborates with internet-based service providers and Jamie Watt concentrates on data protection issues. In Glasgow, E-Ming Fong primarily focuses on IT disputes. Laura McCorquodale is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Tom Thomas
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great industry knowledge and willingness to explore new technologies and their impacts. The knowledge and skills of the wider company also supports us as we grow our business here in the UK.’
‘Tom Thomas has great knowledge and expertise, we have a great working relationship and I respect his opinions and insight.’
‘The team at Harper Macleod have provided advice and assistance on a range of IT procurement and contract-related issues. The advice and assistance provided has been comprehensive, informative and supported decision making on these issue. Also, the service provided was responsive, with information and guidance provided to meet project timescales.’
Key clients
Historic Environment Scotland
Concentrix + Webhelp
Genius Software Solutions Ltd
Oh Polly Ltd
Enduro Sports Organisation Limited
Blackwood Homes and Care
Glasgow City Council
Top Doctors UK Limited
Creative Scotland
Phil Mac Associates LLP t/a Agbioinvestor
Firefly Online Limited
Ionas Software Limited
Work highlights
- Advising leading agricultural market intelligence provider AgbioInvestor on a variety of commercial contracts for the supply of crop protection information and analysis via its online platform to customers in the UK and USA.
- Advising Spanish-owned Top Doctors on its expansion into the UK market including the suite of platform documents as well as a framework services agreement with a leading UK healthcare provider.
- Advised Ionas Software Limited Ionas on (and drafted) a SaaS and support services contract with the University of Glasgow for the use of Seraphin across a number of campus facilities and premises.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment Tier 2
Featuring the ‘exceptionally knowledgeable’ Jamie Watt at the helm, the Harper Macleod LLP practice has extensive expertise in multi-jurisdictional contract breach and copyright infringement claims, in tandem with a deep specialism in data protection matters. The Edinburgh-based Watt is an expert in trade marks, patent law, and cybersecurity issues. In Glasgow, Tom Thomas routinely advises on film and television production and location agreements. Other key Glasgow-based figures include E-Ming Fong, who regularly handles IT and tech sector disputes.Practice head(s):
Jamie Watt
Other key lawyers:
Tom Thomas; E-Ming Fong; David Kerr; Scott Kerr
Testimonials
‘Jamie Watt is exceptionally knowledgeable, well-informed and commercially minded in a refreshing way.’
‘Top notch knowledge and experience. Excellent client care.’
‘Harper Macleod are superb. They offer complete and accomplished expertise for both businesses and individuals. Our firm has used them primarily for Intellectual Property and Information Law and Employment Law matters. Work has always been performed to a very high standard and the partners are very experienced, insightful and able to work to deadlines. Also, all work is itemised in their Practice Management and reported for billing offering both transparency and confidence.’
‘I’ve worked with Scott Kerr for over a year and his knowledge of IP law is second to none.’
‘Jamie Watt’s work on our international trademark campaign has been outstanding.’
Key clients
The Musicians Union
Jack and Victor Limited
Wolfies Drinks Limited
Watchtower Group Limited
Publishing Scotland
Little Step Investments Ltd
Phil Mac Associates LLP t/a AgbioInvestor
Bombito Productions
Fife Council
Death Do Us Apart Film Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Wolfie’s Drinks Limited, internationally known musician Rod Stewart’s whisky brand, on its worldwide brand protection.
- Advising the Musicians Union in relation to the amendment of UK copyright law, including the drafting and process of a private members bill at UK parliament.
- Advising Little Step Investments on rights acquisition in relation to Omar & Hana, a Malaysian Islamic animated television series aimed at two to six years olds, whose official YouTube channel having over 5 million followers.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP ‘has a tight knit team that works closely together to give a first-rate service’ to a broad range of large and listed businesses seeking counsel on domestic and cross-border M&A and other corporate transactions. The firm receives a steady stream of instructions from the public sector and has also seen an uptick of work in the tech, health, life sciences and finance sectors. Team lead Donnie Munro advises across M&A, PE, joint ventures and group reorganisations, while Paula Skinner is a leading figure in the firm’s early stage growth offering. Chris Kerr has wide sector breadth and is reputed for his family office work, while James MacGregor has recently been active on M&A, exits and reorganisations. Jo Nisbet provides corporate and commercial capabilities to high-growth companies, and Stephen Chan handles corporate and corporate finance instructions, while Scott Kerr acts on both M&A and IP mandates. Ross Hampsey, Rachel Miele and Paul MacDonald are also recommended.Practice head(s):
Donnie Munro
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The HM team come across as a tight-knit team that work closely together to give a first-rate service. Swift to respond/act and practical down to earth legal advice.’
‘Paula Skinner provides honest, open advice from a bright, experienced individual.’
‘The practice has outstanding technical knowledge in relation to partnerships and LLPs.’
‘Donnie Munro is authoritative. Stephen Chan is a technical expert. Paul MacDonald is a rising star.’
Key clients
Webhelp Group + Concentrix
Ardersier Port Limited
Optical Express
Halfords Autocentres Limited
Kent Foods Limited
Morrison Community Care Holdco Limited
Fred Olsen Renewables Limited
LaBella Associates, D.P.C
MacDonald Group
Clyde Dental Practice Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Ardersier Port Limited on Scots law matters relating to a £300m private-equity investment by Quantum Energy Partners.
- Advised on the disposal of the business and assets relating to the Gartbreck distillery project on Islay to Chivas Brothers, part of the Pernod Ricard group.
- Advised on the reverse takeover of GL Membership by Semper Fortis eSports plc (now renamed Good Life Plus plc).
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 3
Acting for an impressive list of clients that includes Scottish government agencies, public sector bodies, and multinational corporates, Harper Macleod LLP is regularly sought out for its expertise in handling subsidy control and public procurement issues, with an increasing stream of instructions relating to the Subsidy Control Act 2022. The firm also has competition litigation expertise, as well as EU and CMA merger control experience. Donnie Munro oversees the practice, and James McMorrow is the main contact for public sector clients seeking competition law advice, particularly in the context of major infrastructure projects. Jennifer Jack is well regarded for her contentious, and Fiona Killen, who joined the team from Burness Paull LLP in June 2023, adds further experience working with public bodies. Wendy Richardson has also been notably active across a range of matters.Practice head(s):
Donnie Munro
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Glasgow City Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Inverclyde Council
Cairngorms National Park Authority
NatureScot
Scottish Fire and Rescue
Forestry and Land Scotland
Orkney Islands Council
Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service
Fife Council
Work highlights
- Acted for GCC in relation to a part of its project to raise funding in order to fund a significant equal pay settlement agreed by the council with its employees.
- Advising Inverclyde Council on the Inverkip City Region Deal Project in partnership with Scottish Power/Iberdrola, which includes advising on Subsidy Control Act 2022 compliance.
- Advising Orkney Islands Council on all aspects of the £200m+ Scapa Deep Water Quay Project.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP offers significant experience in handling contractual, shareholder, and post-M&A disputes, with increased instructions in group litigation. Practice head Sandy Hastie, praised as ‘one of the top commercial litigators in Scotland’, excels at corporate and shareholder litigation, handling disputes in the healthcare, energy, and financial services sectors. David Kerr manages complex post-M&A, tax, and banking disputes, E-Ming Fong brings expertise to corporate disputes and intellectual property matters, while John McHugh focuses on contractual disputes.Practice head(s):
Sandy Hastie
Other key lawyers:
David Kerr; E-Ming Fong; John McHugh; Andrew MacKenzie
Testimonials
‘A superb team, with extensive partner involvement. They are driven, hard-working and have extensive experience in complex, international and high-value cases.’
‘Harper Macleod has established itself as a leading commercial law firm in Scotland. The key strengths of the team are the sheer effort and skill they expend on advancing their client’s cases. They are always on top of the details of even the most complex of disputes, and combine that with a real dynamism in either driving a case forward or reaching a resolution of disputes.’
‘The stand-out partner is Sandy Hastie. He is widely recognised to be one of the best lawyers in Scotland. He is vastly experienced, commercially-minded, and frighteningly intelligent.
‘John McHugh is vastly experienced and brings a real depth and gravamen to all his cases. There is no one better at understanding and simplifying complex and high-value disputes.’
‘Harper Macleod is an excellent Scottish firm with a very strong and well-respected commercial litigation team. The dispute resolution practice is headed by Sandy Hastie, who is one of the top commercial litigators in Scotland, but the department has real depth of talent.’
‘John McHugh is commercially pragmatic and has always prepared cases excellently. E-Ming Fong is very good with clients and consistently thorough in exploring every possible angle for them. Both have experience of a wide range of work and in dealing with factually complex and unusual cases.’
‘Harper Macleod is an excellent firm. They have brilliant partners and brilliant associates. They are regularly involved in the most complicated litigation in the Scottish courts.’
‘Sandy Hastie is an extremely capable technical lawyer, with a strong commercial awareness. He is able to process and understand complex information very quickly.’
Key clients
Scottish Government
Coach Stores Ltd
Energiekontor UK Ltd
Nero Holdings Ltd
Optical Express Group
Arc Legal Insurances Ltd
Halfords Group
William Hill
CorpAcq Ltd
M&Co
Work highlights
- Advised Robert Kidd on a $350m action against the purchasers of his shareholding in an oil and gas company, and their solicitors, based on an unlawful means conspiracy, including a 5-week proof (trial) in the Court of Session in December 2023.
- Successfully represented Centenary 6 Ltd at proof (trial) in a £40m loss of opportunity claim against TLT solicitors, concerning legal advice given by TLT which resulted in the irretrievable loss of a prior right of action.
- Represented Cromsource srl in its defence of a £2m post-M&A claim arising out of a share purchase agreement, following its acquisition of a Scottish business.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 3
‘Attentive, commercial and client-focused’, Harper Macleod LLP is a notable player in the Scottish banking and finance market with a deep bench of advisers acting for a client roster encompassing major clearing and challenger banks, alternative lenders, and multinationals. The firm's strength in the real estate, agriculture, healthcare and energy spaces has been enhanced by growth in the marine sector, where the firm handles a range of debt financings, acquisition financings, and refinancings for clients domestically and abroad. Tony Cameron helms the practice and handles complex transactions for banks, funds and corporates, while Ricardo Matteo is frequently sought out for marine work. Jacqui Fraser is active in the real estate, healthcare, hospitality and agriculture sectors, and Andrew Ronald, who is the principal point of contact for notable lender clients, is well reputed for his property expertise. Kirsty Watson is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Tony Cameron
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Harper MacLeod team have always been proactive with legal advice. They offer advice in an easy to understand manner. They also breakdown what the legal issue is, what the risk is and importantly, also what the likelihood is of the risk event happening. This assists in making a commercial decision on whether to accept that risk or to seek mitigation.’
‘The Harper Macleod banking team is attentive, commercial and client-focused.’
‘The Harper Macleod Banking Team are really approachable. They can be relied upon to quickly address any contentious points and will provide a clear and quick response/resolution.’
‘Strong team, good depth, knowledge and experience.’
Key clients
City Property Glasgow LLP/Glasgow City Council
Lloyds Banking Group/Bank of Scotland plc
Virgin Money/Clydesdale Bank plc
Santander UK plc
Cynergy Bank
HSBC UK Bank plc
Ocean Farm Services Limited
Abundance Investment
Paragon Development Finance
LHV Bank Limited
Work highlights
- Advised City Property Glasgow LLP/Glasgow City Council on all aspects of the final tranche of the high-profile £858m sale and leaseback project involving the transfer of high profile Glasgow buildings from Glasgow City Council to related arm’s length external organisations to fund equal pay liabilities.
- Advising a group of leading international insurance companies in relation to the provision of £186m bonding facilities provided on behalf of a group of Scottish companies and associated indemnities and supporting security.
- Advising an energy client in respect of a deed of indemnity to be provided to a leading international insurance company to support the provision of a bond as collateral for a new £728m contract to be undertaken.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3
As a ‘very capable and commercial team’ that ‘gets to grips with complex issues quickly‘, Harper Macleod LLP receives a wide array of instructions from major industry players, administrators and bankruptcy trustees, and has recently been active on a number of high-profile restructurings and insolvencies across a wealth of sectors. ‘Stand out’ partner Gordon Hollerin helms the practice and is a key name for banks and financial institutions, administrators and liquidators, and directors. Co-head James Lloyd is a go-to for bankruptcy and personal insolvency work, while Limor Wolfe has a property background which she leverages in the real estate and retail spaces. Fiona Strang‘s corporate know-how is leveraged on a range of insolvency mandates.Practice head(s):
Gordon Hollerin; James Lloyd
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Strong team led by Gordon Hollerin who were able to deal with short timescales, complex issues and an ability to get stuff done.’
‘Gordon Hollerin knows the market inside out, was able to provide responses to tricky issues in short order and was always responsive.’
‘Vastly experienced partner-led team, with broad cross-sector experience in both corporate restructuring and corporate/personal insolvency.’
‘James Lloyd and Gordon Hollerin are both a pleasure to work with. Both consistently demonstrate excellent technical knowledge and take a pragmatic and commercial approach to the insolvency assignments I have worked with them on. Widely regarded by the insolvency profession as market-leading restructuring and insolvency lawyers.’
‘A very capable and commercial team who are quick to respond, get to grips with complex issues quickly and offer sound advice based on many years of experience in the insolvency and restructuring sector. Partner availability is never an issue but equally more junior members of the team show an excellent level of knowledge and ability.’
‘Gordon Hollerin stands out as a Partner with a huge amount of experience and who has a practical approach that cuts through difficult issues quickly.’
‘Gordon Hollerin and his team (including service lines that compliment the Restructuring and Insolvency team) are very good to work with. The advice and support received is excellent, including on urgent and time-critical assignments.’
‘James Lloyd is extremely experienced and knowledgeable regarding all matters of insolvency, with a special expertise on personal insolvency. He is responsive and user-friendly.’
Key clients
Stewart Milne Group Limited
SGZ Cononish Limited
Mackays Stores (Holdings) Limited
Interpath Ltd
BDO LLP
FRP Advisory Trading Limited
Azets
David Urquhart (Travel) Group
Findlay Hamilton
Leonard Curtis
Work highlights
- Providing pre-administration advice followed by appointment of administrators to Stewart Milne Group Limited, leading UK housebuilder.
- Advising in relation to the restructure of SGZ Cononish Limited, Scotland’s only goldmine.
- Advising the administrators on the high-profile insolvency of Tayside Aviation Limited.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy (excluding oil and gas) Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP has a strong client base that instructs its energy and natural resources team on a number of key Scottish projects, with wind, solar, and battery storage work continually at the fore. The firm is well-geared to act on a wide body of contentious work, including increased climate change litigation, and has an active secondary market offering. Helming the practice is Omar Ali, who is highly proficient in advising on the property and real estate aspects of large-scale projects, especially in regard to grid connection offers and planning routes. Pamela Todd ‘provides first-class support’ to developers and investors with extensive activity in the wind space, while Lewis Hendry has a broad remit of work. David Bone retired in April 2024.Practice head(s):
Omar Ali
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge of renewable energy industry.’
‘Pamela Todd is highly knowledgeable, commercially aware and respected by other lawyers, which assists in reaching acceptable outcomes for all parties. Experienced and very easy to work with.’
‘Highly professional, approachable and diligent. They have an excellent network with other legal providers. They understand, and are sympathetic to, their client’s practical requirements to assist with navigating the legal landscape.’
‘Team are very approachable, extremely diligent and experts in their field. They are nearly always available at short notice or respond as soon as possible thereafter. They explain difficult legal matters in a clear manner and are patient in presenting information verbally to suit their client’s expertise.’
‘Pamala Todd has provided first-class support on many key legal aspects of the projects I have worked with her. This support has been provided during due diligence, acquisition, contraction and operation and through some very complex contractual matters.’
Key clients
Fred. Olsen Renewables
EnergieKontor
Forestry and Land Scotland
Pennon Group Plc
Ardersier Port
GreenPower International
Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport
Greenpeace
Ocean Winds
Greenswitch Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Fred. Olsen Renewables Limited on the development of phase 4 of Crystal Rig wind farm, which will bring the total development to over 260MW.
- Advised Pennon Group on the acquisition of the solar farm at Cullerlie in Aberdeenshire from Elgin Energy, dealing with all property, planning, environmental and grid connection matters.
- Appointed as sole legal adviser to act for Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport Limited, one of only two green freeports in Scotland, including assisting in attracting investment into the offshore wind and hydrogen industries.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Projects Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP handles a diverse stream of infrastructure-related instructions, and has recently seen an uptick in healthcare mandates, with the firm advising across all aspects of NHS projects, from new-build to operational issues. The team also frequently engages with marquee ventures, such as the Aberdeen City Vision Project and the Inverness and Cromarty Green Freeport. Group lead Euan Pirie is widely lauded as ‘extremely knowledgeable in this subject area and very connected to current industry thinking’; he has established strength in contract negotiation regarding large-scale, multifaceted developments. Catriona Kemp spearheads a number of project finance matters, while also playing a crucial part in firm’s wider PFI/PPP and secondary market instructions.Practice head(s):
Euan Pirie
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Euan Pirie has been a key contact. He is responsive to deadlines and his excellent knowledge of the construction industry has been of great benefit over the years. He makes himself available when required and provides clear & direct feedback and advice.’
‘Euan Pirie and his team go above and beyond in providing advice on complex commercial and legal matters. They have reacted quickly to moving targets and delivered within the development programme.’
‘The team advise on NHS PFI contracts. This is a very specialist area and the team has a very high level of skill and knowledge in this particular area.’
‘Our key contact is Euan Pirie. He is extremely knowledgeable in this subject area and very connected to current industry thinking. He is invaluable and provides advice on critical business matters quickly and efficiently.’
‘Strong team, each knowledgeable and able in their own right.’
Key clients
Fife Council
Forth Health Limited
Glasgow City Council
Hub North Scotland Limited
Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport Limited
Lanarkshire Health Board
North Ayrshire Council
NYOP Education (Aberdeen) Limited
Orkney Islands Council
Scottish Government
University of St Andrews
Tayside Health Board
Scottish Police Authority
West Lothian Council
Work highlights
- Advising Hub North Scotland Limited in relation to the ACC Vision Project in Aberdeen.
- Advising Orkney Islands Council in relation to the procurement of the Scapa Deep Water Quay Project and other proposed schemes included within the Orkney Harbours Masterplan.
- Advising NHS Lanarkshire in relation to a major project variation involving the insourcing of soft FM services at University Hospital Wishaw.
Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland Tier 3
Leading Harper Macleod LLP’s Highlands and Islands-based team from Inverness and Elgin, Ross Thomson offers ‘prompt, effective and understandable advice’ to clients in the healthcare, hospitality, and marine economy sectors. Instructed by a wide range of clients in northern Scotland, the team is also active in the public sector, commercial developments, and leisure spaces.Practice head(s):
Ross Thomson
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Kerr; Euan Bowie
Testimonials
‘The team focuses on the client needs from a holistic standpoint rather than just a transaction standpoint.’
‘Ross Thomson gives prompt, effective and understandable advice on all matters relevant to his commercial specialisms and allocates other projects in different areas to relevant specialists within the firm.’
‘Euan Bowie has great attention to detail in negotiating commercial leases and providing advice – all of it is supported with an sensible attitude of not getting bogged down in minutiae.’
Key clients
Angus Council
Ardersier Port (Scotland) Limited
Camlin Group
Capstone Construction Scotland Limited
Compass Construction and Building Services Limited
Forestry & Land Scotland
Gael Force Group
G & A Barnie Group
Hazledene Group
Jacobite Cruises Limited
James Keiller Property Group
MacDonald & Muir Limited (property company of Glenmorangie Whisky)
Meallmore Limited
Scotia Homes Group
Springfield Group (Residential & Commercial)
Upland Group
Work highlights
- Advised Ardersier Port (Scotland) on property issues in relation to a £300M investment from Quantum Energy Partners.
- Advised Mackay Stores Holdings Limited on a portfolio sale of retail properties across Scotland.
- Advised Central Skye Hotels Limited on the sale of the Sligachan Hotel, Isle of Skye.
Real estate > Construction Tier 3
With a focus on affordable homes, civil and engineering contracts, sustainable projects, and disputes, Harper Macleod LLP’s construction and engineering group is under the joint leadership of Michael Conroy, Euan Pirie, and Laura McCorquodale. Conroy’s practice includes a mixture of transactional and contentious matters, advising developers, contractors, funders, and claims consultants. Pirie supports both public and private sector clients, with extensive experience in procurement and contract negotiation. McCorquodale is a skilled commercial litigator who handles payment disputes, defects, and professional negligence claims against construction professionals.Practice head(s):
Michael Conroy; Euan Pirie; Laura McCorquodale
Other key lawyers:
John McHugh; Miranda Cannibal; Richard Gallen
Testimonials
‘A growing team with a bright future and a quickly developing client base.’
‘Laura McCorquodale is the team’s figurehead and has a wealth of experience in contentious construction disputes. She is a very capable lawyer – strong on the detail, focused on the commercial realities, and excellent with the clients.’
‘A relatively small firm but with a good construction team.’
‘Laura McCorquodale is definitely one to watch as she commands great authority when she is involved in a case. She has a good rapport with clients.’
‘All-rounders in construction, real estate and professional negligence. Strong multi-disciplined team able to deal with complex construction cases.’
‘Michael Conroy heads up the construction offering and is ably assisted by fellow partner Laura McCorquodale and Miranda Cannibal. The team is collectively and individually strong and able to deal with quick adjudications to longer court matters.’
‘They have excellent knowledge and experience in this field to ensure the best possible outcome for the client.’
‘Euan Pirie has strong attention to detail, allowing him to secure the best possible outcome for the organisation. Laura McCorquodale dealt with an urgent legal issue timeously. Richard Gallen is knowledgeable.’
Key clients
Advance Construction (Scotland) Limited
Angus Council
Fife Council
Forsyths Limited
Hub North Scotland Limited
Morrison Community Care (CCG) Holdco Limited
North Ayrshire Council
Orkney Islands Council
Sanctuary Housing Association
University of St. Andrews
Work highlights
- Advised Hub North Scotland Limited as main contractor/development partner for the Aberdeen City Vision Project, which is being procured for Aberdeen City Council.
- Advised Forsyths Limited on a contract for the major expansion of the Whyte & Mackay Distillery at Dalmore.
- Advised Orkney Islands Council in relation to a £200m+ harbour improvement project
Real estate > Environment Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP receives regular instructions from public sector bodies, environmental campaign groups, and private developers. Practice co-head Peter Ferguson is experienced in handling environmental and planning matters related to renewable energy, mining, and waste management. He leads the team alongside Jennifer Jack, who offers expertise in environmental disputes, including judicial reviews and appeals.Practice head(s):
Peter Ferguson; Jennifer Jack
Other key lawyers:
Calum Gee
Testimonials
‘The team at Harper Macleod is worlds apart from any other in Scotland for this work. International and national charities actively seek to have this team onside when considering environmental litigation.’
‘Jennifer Jack and Calum Gee are really the stand-out lawyers in this area of the law in Scotland. Jennifer has built a team which is the envy of other firms for the nature of the work that they are asked to carry out.’
‘I was very impressed by Harper Macleod’s handling of the cases. Their advice was sound and conveyed in a manner that the client department understood.’
‘Calum Gee and Jennifer Jack are both knowledgeable in their subject areas, give sound advice, and are approachable. They are quick to respond to any query.’
‘Harper Macleod has a good knowledge of all public law issues and a good understanding of environmental issues, especially from a developer’s point of view.’
‘Peter Ferguson is willing to put in the effort to understand the technical background of a client’s business to be in a position to give them the best possible legal advice. Calum Gee is an excellent all-round litigation lawyer who can turn his hand to anything.’
Key clients
NatureScot (formerly Scottish Natural Heritage)
Environmental Standards Scotland
Forestry and Land Scotland
Greenpeace UK
Cairngorms National Park Authority
Glasgow City Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Perth and Kinross Council
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Fred. Olsen Renewables Limited
Octopus Energy
Energiekontor UK Limited
Green Power International
The Foresight Group
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
Work highlights
- Represented Greenpeace in a legal challenge to the UK Government’s grant of consents to allow BP and Ithaca Energy and Shell UK to produce oil and gas from the Vorlich and Jackdaw oil and gas fields respectively.
- Assisted Glasgow City Council with the successful defence of a judicial review challenge to the Council’s decision to introduce a Low Emission Zone in Glasgow.
- Assisted Tambowie Biogas Limited with a successful judicial review challenge against decisions taken by the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) under the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme Regulations.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP supports clients with disputes related to commercial leases, title boundaries and conditions, access rights, and agricultural property. Sandy Hastie heads up the dispute resolution department, while Andrew Upton spearheads the real estate litigation division, regularly appearing in the Sheriff Court, Court of Session, Scottish Land Court, as well as the Lands Tribunal for Scotland. John McHugh is a key member of the team, bringing significant experience in acting for shopping centre landlords.Practice head(s):
Andrew Upton; Sandy Hastie
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I believe Harper Macleod has a significant and sufficient number of partners and associates to be able to undertake cases requiring appropriate ranges of expertise.’
‘Our solicitor proved to be highly competent, diligent, focused and ready to pursue our needs to the fullest that the law would allow. We were provided excellent support and explanations regarding legal matters that we initially did not understand in order to frame and then successfully prosecute our case.’
‘Harper Macleod’s depth of talent sets them apart. No matter your requirements, they have the expertise to assist. ’
‘Andrew Upton’s levels of knowledge and service have been exceptional and I have no hesitation in recommending him in the highest possible terms.’
‘The individuals in the Property Litigation team have in-depth experience and provide real clarity from the outset on the approach they will adopt and outcomes they aim to achieve for the client. No waffle, just results.’
‘They have industry-leading knowledge of the renewable energy industry.’
‘John McHugh is commercially aware and able to provide high-quality legal advice throughout disputes.’
‘Harper Macleod exudes a dynamic, innovative and business-focused energy. I would categorise them as having big-firm quality and mindset with medium-firm price and approachability.’
Key clients
Scottish Government
Forestry and Land Scotland
Energiekontor UK Ltd
National Car Parks Ltd
William Hill Organisation 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
Work highlights
- Represented Denny Enterprises Int’l Limited and its director in three linked Court of Session actions arising out of alleged dilapidations of commercial premises.
- Acted for Energiekontor Limited in a contractual dispute arising from its development of a new site close to Edinburgh Airport and its potential impact on radar systems.
- Acted for Forestry and Land Scotland in an action for rectification of its land registered title where the omission of land impacts on the operation of a hydro scheme.
Scotland > Transport Tier 3
Harper Macleod LLP is well positioned in the market to advise on maritime and shipping mandates, with a particular focus on port and harbour developments, financings and investments. The firm’s cross-disciplinary team attracts instructions from a host of government and local authorities, financial institutions, underwriters, and industry players. Tony Cameron helms the practice and has a wide corporate and commercial remit that encompasses the entire marine sector. Co-head Chris Kerr is largely focused on corporate matters and has recently advised on port investments and shipping and logistics acquisitions. James McMorrow specialises in subsidy control and procurement issues, whereas Ricardo Matteo is the go-to name in the team for financing instructions, and Euan Pirie is a PFI/PPP expert.Practice head(s):
Tony Cameron; Chris Kerr
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Growing levels of experience in marine and shipping.’
‘Ricardo Matteo is the main contact – very good and helpful throughout various transactions.’
‘Willingness to learn the industry we are in.’
Key clients
Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport Limited
Glasgow City Council
Greenpeace UK
Ardersier Port (Scotland) Limited
Orkney Islands Council
Clydesdale Bank plc/Virgin Money PLC
Ocean Farm Services
Aquaship (UK) Limited
Dalcross Group
Seafood Shetland
Work highlights
- Advising Inverness and Cromarty Green Freeport, one of two Green Freeports in Scotland, on governance and tax delivery site agreements.
- Advising Orkney Islands Council on the £200m Scapa Deep Water Quay Project.
- Acting for DFDS A/S on the acquisition of the business and assets of D R Macleod, a haulage and logistics company.
Employment Tier 4
The ‘comprehensive team of professionals’ at Harper Macleod LLP is notable for its significant public sector expertise, regularly supporting local authorities, central government departments, and government agencies. Department co-head Lorna Davis‘ practice includes advising on unfair dismissal, industrial relations, and TUPE, while fellow team leader Bruce Caldow represents clients in disputes and advises on the employment aspects of transactions. Ewan Stafford was elevated to partner in April 2023, strengthening the firm’s offering in Inverness.Practice head(s):
Lorna Davis; Scott Milligan
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I found the practice, from enquiry to engagement to fulfilment, effortless and supportive, which gave me confidence during a challenging time with my ex-employer.’
‘Scott Milligan put me at ease from start to finish. His soft skills were a massive differentiator and something I wasn’t expecting. He was always ready to put me at ease, available for counsel and guided me effortlessly through a tough time.’
‘Ewan Stafford’s responsiveness and availability were notable, making himself accessible to us at all times. His immediate support instilled confidence in our understanding of our rights and our position, guiding us on the best course of action. His wealth of experience and professionalism were evident and precisely what my family and I needed during this critical time.’
‘Harper Macleod has a comprehensive team of professionals who can provide support and assistance across a plethora of legal subjects. This enables the client to focus on the issues at hand whilst the professionals take on the role of leading and managing the legal issue.’
‘Bruce Caldow provided clarity and confidence.’
‘The firm is very professional.’
‘Bruce Caldow is exceptional.’
Key clients
Concentrix + Webhelp
Celtic plc and football club
Kick ICT Group
Fred Olsen Renewables
City of Edinburgh Council
Kyowa Kirin International plc
Optical Express
Global Energy Group
Clyde Dental Practice Limited (part of the Clyde Munro Group)
Halfords Autocentres Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised Webhelp + Concentrix on all employment aspects of cross-border TUPE transfers with household retail names.
- Instructed in all employment law matters for Kick ICT Group Limited, including TUPE on hive-up and investment process.
- Achieved a settlement of over £800,000 for Gerry Campbell in a disability discrimination claim.
Real estate > Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 4
Harper Macleod LLP‘s ‘excellent’ team is jointly led Chris Noble, an expert in lease acquisitions and lease management, and Caroline Summers, who regularly acts for financial institutions, institutional landlords, and SMEs. John Meehan is experienced in dealing with the real estate aspects of restructuring, property finance, and residential developments. Alexis Condie joined the firm in March 2024 from Dentons, bringing experience in shopping centres and industrial estates asset management, while Leandro Franchi and Peter Jack came aboard in November 2023 from commercial property boutique Franchi Law.Practice head(s):
Caroline Summers; Chris Noble
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Harper McLeod builds strong, client-dedicated teams, focusing on delivering client requirements with experienced staff while being cost-effective. The size of the business ensures everyone on their team feels involved and works hard for the clients.’
‘Caroline Summers provides excellent service, She is very knowledgeable across all real estate areas and offers sound, pragmatic advice.’
‘The support and service from this team have always been excellent. As a client, you feel in safe hands, with their responsiveness and support in stressful situations.’
‘John Meehan is an excellent partner. I have absolute trust in his advice and guidance. Jenna McLean is an exceptional associate who is incredibly responsive, supportive, patient and compassionate.’
‘Harper MacLeod offers sound and sensible advice.’
‘Chris Noble is very experienced, always ready to assist, patient, and able to explain legal matters plainly. He manages his workload effectively, reducing the need for follow-ups.’
Key clients
City Property Glasgow (Investments) LLP / Glasgow City Council
Scottish Ministers
CBRE Investment Management
ABRDN
Primark Stores
JD Sports Fashion plc
Scotia Group
ESP Electricity Limited
Kelvin Property Group
Halfords plc
Work highlights
- Acted for New City Vision Group in the redevelopment of a former dock on the River Clyde.
- Acted for Primark Stores Limited in its new 33,000sq ft retail unit at Glasgow Fort.
- Acted for Glasgow City Council in the sale and leaseback of circa £200 million of core commercial property assets including Kelvin Hall, Kelvingrove Museum and the Glasgow City Chambers.
Real estate > Planning Tier 4
The ‘highly professional, approachable, and diligent’ team at Harper Macleod LLP boasts an impressive list of public sector clients, with active involvement in renewable energy and housing development sectors. The group frequently collaborates with English law firms, advising on the planning aspects of corporate transactions that involve renewable energy projects. The non-contentious offering is spearheaded by Peter Ferguson, who acts for a range of clients including regulators, planning authorities, purchasers, and developers. Jennifer Jack takes the lead in planning-related litigation, handling judicial reviews, public inquiries, and appeals.Practice head(s):
Peter Ferguson; Jennifer Jack
Other key lawyers:
Calum Gee
Testimonials
‘Harper MacLeod provided excellent assistance. The work was carried out quickly and efficiently, and the advice given was excellent.’
‘Calum Gee and Jennifer Jack are both experienced solicitors who give sound advice. Both are approachable and friendly and respond quickly to queries despite being very busy.’
‘They are highly professional, approachable and diligent. They have an excellent network with other legal providers.’
‘The team is very approachable and extremely diligent, and the lawyers are experts in their field. They explain difficult legal matters in a clear manner and are patient in presenting information verbally.’
‘Peter Ferguson has provided first-class support during due diligence, acquisition, and contraction and through some very complex contractual matters.’
‘The broad team has good local authority coverage.’
‘Jennifer Jack is an excellent public lawyer with good hands-on planning experience.’
‘Harper Macleod is excellent in all aspects of public law including planning law and work for a number of busy local authorities.’
Key clients
NatureScot (formerly Scottish Natural Heritage)
Octopus Energy
Fred Olsen Renewables
EnergieKontor
Statkraft UK
The Foresight Group
Primark
Forestry and Land Scotland (formerly Forestry Commission Scotland)
Cairngorms National Park Authority
Pennon Power
Greenpeace UK
The Highland Council
City of Edinburgh Council
Marine Scotland
Fife Council
Glasgow City Council
Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
Work highlights
- Advised Perth and Kinross Council in defending a judicial review challenge brought by Tesco against planning permission granted by the Council for an Aldi superstore in Perth.
- Advised Centrica on the acquisition of a battery energy storage system (BESS) at Abernethy, Perthshire, from specialist BESS development company P&M Energy.
- Advised Forestry and Land Scotland on an objection to an application by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Transmission for consent under Section 37 of the Electricity Act 1989 to to construct and operate approximately 13 kilometres of new 400-kilovolt overhead transmission line to the consented Coire Glas Pumped Storage Scheme.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Franchising Tier 4
Scottish-based firm Harper Macleod LLP is active in corporate franchising transactions for global brands in the technology and food and drinks industries. Scott Kerr now leads the practice following the retirement of former practice head David Kaye, who joined Spencer West in July 2023. Kerr is well placed to advise both franchisees and franchisors.Practice head(s):
Scott Kerr
Other key lawyers:
Craig McKerracher; Fiona Neilson
Key clients
Chicken Cottage Limited
Leven Vale Restaurants Limited
Oodles Chinese
Tobar Group
Bangin’ Pizza
WW Soft Play
JE Restaurants
Rainbow Rooms International Ltd
Craigton Foods Limited
POA Restaurants Limtied
Monterey Jack’s
Little Step Investments
E S Windscreen & Glass Repairs
Work highlights
- Advising Chicken Cottage on all of its template documentation to establish multi-site franchise development agreements.
- Acting for Leven Vale Restaurants Limited in the sale of six separate McDonald’s franchises on the retiral of the owner.
- Acting for WW Soft Play in taking a Sides franchise, unusual in that the franchise was to operate effectively as a concession within the leisure premises already operated by WW Soft Play and is not, therefore, a standalone franchise arrangement.
Public sector > Education
Harper Macleod LLP > Firm Profile
Harper Macleod LLP is a leading independent full-service Scottish law firm with offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, Elgin, Lerwick and Thurso. The firm provides services to businesses, organisations in the public & private sectors, and families and individuals. Recognised as Scotland’s Firm of the Year eight times, it is one of the country’s largest professional partnerships. The firm has grown the proportion of transactions completed in Scotland where they were the principal advisor, completing 153 transactions which accounted for 23% of all reported deals advised on by law firms in Scotland. Harper Macleod is the only appointee to all available lots under both the City of Edinburgh and Scottish Government legal services frameworks.
PRINCIPAL AREAS OF WORK
Harper Macleod acts principally for clients in the following industry sectors: banking & financial services; energy & natural resources; food & drink; healthcare; insurance; manufacturing; marine; real estate & construction; retail; rural economy; public and third sector; space; sport; technology; and transport. It provides a full range of private client services, including family law.
Key areas of work include:
Banking & Finance
Advising banks and borrowers, the team acts for most of the country’s main funders, including mezzanine funders and alternative finance providers. It also advises non-funder clients on banking and finance issues.
Renewable Energy
The team specialises in renewable energy projects advising developers, landowners, community groups, planning authorities and funders on all aspects of the energy supply chain from planning permission and property advice for wind and minerals projects, to advice on securing funding, negotiating community benefits and taking advantage of incentives. The team has advised on projects generating 40% of Scotland’s renewable electricity capacity.
Real Estate & Construction
One of Scotland’s largest property practices, the team advises clients across the private, public and third sectors working with leading operators in the industry, including Scottish Government, investors, developers and their funders, main contractors, specialist subcontractors, purchasers and tenants.
Corporate and M&A
Among Scotland’s most active dealmakers, the firm advises clients from entrepreneurs to multi-nationals and acts for many of Scotland’s leading family-owned, employee-owned and owner-managed businesses. They completed 153 transactions which accounted for 23% of all reported deals advised on by law firms in Scotland..
Commercial and regulatory
Harper Macleod has one of Scotland’s largest commercial and regulatory law practices. Our work is market-leading, acting for clients ranging from national and international governmental organisations, through multinationals and listed companies, to start-ups and SMEs. The team covers all areas of commercial and regulatory law, including trading arrangements, consumer contracts, procurement, IP, data and information law, the internet, and sector specific regulation.
Dispute Resolution
One of Scotland’s largest dispute resolution practices, including one of the most prominent teams in the Commercial Court in Edinburgh. It has been involved in some of the most complex litigations in Scottish courts and notable Supreme Court cases.
Employment Law
The team acts for clients across all sectors – from government, its agencies, public and third sector organisations, to multinational corporations and family-owned businesses.
Personal Injury & Reparation
The firm’s significant insurance practice both pursues and defends all aspects of claims for leading insurers and individual clients. The team advises on complex insurance, litigation and risk matters for corporate clients.
Public Sector
The firm advises Scottish and UK public authorities as well as clients in the private sector who interact with the public sector. Clients include: central government departments; government agencies; NDPBs; local authorities; regulatory bodies; charities and community organisations; further and higher education institutions; and regeneration agencies. Harper Macleod also has one of Scotland’s leading housing practices, acting for many large registered social landlords.
Sport
The team is recognised as Scotland’s leading sports law practice, representing governing bodies, clubs, organisations and individuals. Harper Macleod was Official Legal Advisers to both the Glasgow 2018 European Championships and Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Transport (including Shipping & Marine)
Advises in areas including road, haulage and rail. Experience ranges from major road infrastructure projects to the mergers and acquisitions of businesses operating in the transport sector. It also has extensive experience in shipping and marine transport.
Major Projects
The firm advises a wide range of stakeholders on major projects and project finance – from government and public sector bodies to multinational companies and lenders. The specialist Infrastructure & Projects team leads on capital projects and advises on high-value and public sector procurements.
Healthcare
Provides a full service to the sector, particularly treatment and care providers, the sale and acquisition of healthcare businesses involving major trade consolidators, and regulatory matters.
Food & Drink
The team’s clients range from start-ups and microbreweries to some of Scotland’s biggest producers and brands. Harper Macleod’s specialist licensing team is one of the country’s leading practices.
Retail
Advises clients from high street brands to online operators on everything from brand management to property advice. Harper Macleod has a particular specialism in franchising.
Rural Economy
Advises rural businesses and organisations of all types and sizes, including some of the country’s leading rural sector bodies. Advice covers: crofting; renewable energy; rural business; marine economy; agriculture, fishing & forestry; natural capital projects, individuals and families.
Family Law
Our family team advises individuals on all aspects of family law across Scotland, including a focus on modern family units and family creation. The team includes eight Law Society of Scotland accredited specialists, one of whom holds all three family law specialisms.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Chairman | Professor Lorne D Crerar CBE | ||
Chief Executive | Martin Darroch | ||
Banking and finance | Tony Cameron | ||
Banking litigation | Sandy Hastie | ||
Construction | Michael Conroy | ||
Corporate | Donald Munro | ||
Debt and asset recovery | James Lloyd | ||
Dispute resolution | Sandy Hastie | ||
Employment | Bruce Caldow | ||
Energy and natural resources | Omar Ali | ||
Family/matrimonial | Amanda Masson | ||
Franchising | Scott Kerr | ||
Infrastructure and projects | Euan Pirie | ||
Insolvency | James Lloyd | ||
Intellectual property | Jamie Watt | ||
Information technology | Tom Thomas | ||
Licensing | Andrew Hunter | ||
Medical negligence | Heather E Calderwood | ||
Personal injury | Heather E Calderwood | ||
Planning and environmental | Peter Ferguson | ||
Professional negligence | Sandy Hastie | ||
Public sector and housing | Derek Hogg | ||
Commercial property | Ross Thomson | ||
Commercial property litigation | Andrew Upton | ||
Residential property | David McIndoe | ||
Restructuring and corporate recovery | Gordon Hollerin | ||
Rural (inc. agriculture & estates) | Graeme Nisbet | ||
Sport | Bruce Caldow | ||
Wills, trusts and executries | Pamela Niven | ||
Transport (inc. shipping & marine) | Chris Kerr |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Omar Ali | Partner Omar has over 15 years’ experience in the energy sector acting… | View Profile | |
David Bell | Partner David is a Law society of Scotland Accredited Specialist in Commercial… | View Profile | |
Jane Blackwood | Jane has practised exclusively in family law since qualifying in 2010. She is… | View Profile | |
Heather Calderwood | Partner Heather has experience in a variety of civil litigation including road traffic, medical… | View Profile | |
Bruce Caldow | Partner Bruce specialises in employment law and heads the firm’s employment law practice. … | View Profile | |
Tony Cameron | Partner Tony has significant experience in acting for both lenders and borrowers… | View Profile | |
Michael Conroy | Partner Michael is highly experienced in the drafting and negotiation of building… | View Profile | |
Eilidh Crawford | Associate Eilidh is part of the Debt & Asset Recovery team, primarily… | View Profile | |
Ms Lorne Crerar | Professor Lorne Crerar CBE FRSE is one of the two founding partners… | View Profile | |
Amy Dickson | Partner Amy is a partner in our Personal Injury & Reparation team. She is… | View Profile | |
Ms Natalie Dissake | Natalie is an Accredited Specialist in Debt and Asset Recovery, advising both public… | View Profile | |
Julie Doncaster | Partner Julie Doncaster, Inverness & Highlands Lawyer, advises clients on wills, estate and… | View Profile | |
Peter Ferguson | Partner Peter specialises in planning and environmental law and he advises a range of… | View Profile | |
Ashley Fleming | Partner Ashley specialises in immigration, asylum and nationality law and has extensive… | View Profile | |
E-Ming Fong | Partner E-Ming is a partner in our Dispute Resolution Department, specialising in… | View Profile | |
Jacqui Fraser | Partner Jacqui has over 25 years’ experience of dealing with all aspects… | View Profile | |
Calum Gee | Partner Calum is a member of the dispute resolution team in Edinburgh. Calum’s principal… | View Profile | |
Tom Gray | Partner Tom represents a range of clients in relation to farm, forestry… | View Profile | |
Jennifer Grosvenor | Senior Associate Jennifer provides advice on a wide range of contentious matters… | View Profile | |
Alexis Harper | Partner Alexis has more than 15 years’ experience practising exclusively in Family… | View Profile | |
Derek Hogg | Partner Derek acts on behalf of many registered social landlords (RSLs), local… | View Profile | |
Gordon Hollerin | Partner Gordon has over 30 years’ restructuring, corporate recovery and insolvency experience.… | View Profile | |
Andrew Hunter | Partner Andrew is the lead partner of the Licensing team and is accredited by… | View Profile | |
Catriona Kemp | Partner Catriona is experienced in advising on infrastructure projects throughout Scotland and… | View Profile | |
Chris Kerr | Partner Chris was named as one of The Lawyer’s Hot 100 lawyers… | View Profile | |
Andrew Kerr | Partner Andrew provides advice to clients on a range of commercial real… | View Profile | |
David Kerr | Partner David heads Harper Macleod’s Dispute Resolution team in Glasgow, leading on… | View Profile | |
Jacqueline Leslie | Partner Jacqueline is an experienced private client lawyer and a Law Society… | View Profile | |
James Lloyd | Partner James heads the firm’s Insolvency team and has advised on corporate and personal insolvency related… | View Profile | |
James MacGregor | Partner James is a partner in our corporate team, whose practice regularly… | View Profile | |
Andrew MacKenzie | Partner Andrew deals with a wide variety of civil and commercial disputes… | View Profile | |
Amy Mackenzie | Partner Amy specialises in advising family owned businesses and owner-managed businesses, and… | View Profile | |
Ms Kathleen Martin | Kathleen acts for clients at all stages of their lives on a… | View Profile | |
Amanda Masson | Partner Amanda has specialised in Family Law for the majority of my… | View Profile | |
Andrew Maxwell | Senior Solicitor Andrew can provide advice to employers and employees on all… | View Profile | |
Laura McCorquodale | Partner Laura is a commercial litigator within our dispute resolution practice in… | View Profile | |
Suzanne McGarrigle | Partner Suzanne specialises in defender personal injury work, covering the full range from employer… | View Profile | |
David McIndoe | Partner David is highly experienced in a wide range of private client… | View Profile | |
Craig McKerracher | Partner Craig is a Partner in our award winning Corporate, Commercial & Regulatory… | View Profile | |
Ms Jenna McLean | Jenna advises clients on a range of commercial real estate transactions. She… | View Profile | |
Lyndsay McMahon | Senior Associate Lyndsay has a wealth of experience in debt recovery litigation and is… | View Profile | |
James McMorrow | Partner James advises the firm’s public, housing and third sector clients in relation to… | View Profile | |
John Meehan | Partner Clients come to John for his strategic advice on how to… | View Profile | |
Collette Miller | Partner Collette provides advice and assistance to many Registered Social Landlords (RSLs),… | View Profile | |
Scott Milligan | Partner Scott is a Law Society of Scotland Accredited Specialist in Employment Law and… | View Profile | |
Donald Munro | Partner Donald Munro predominantly deals with clients in the family owned/owner managed… | View Profile | |
Graeme Nisbet | Partner Graeme is Head of our Rural Team and Project Partner for… | View Profile | |
Pamela Niven | Partner Pamela leads the firm’s Private Client team. She has a wealth… | View Profile | |
Keri Preece | Keri specialises in debt recovery litigation for a variety of public and private sector… | View Profile | |
Laura Ann Sheridan | Laura Ann is a Personal Injury associate with considerable experience in handling claims for… | View Profile | |
Paula Skinner | Partner Paula is head of the entrepreneurial team at Harper Macleod that… | View Profile | |
Jenny Smith | Partner Jenny has a particular interest and experience in the financial issues… | View Profile | |
Bill Stark | Bill is a debt and asset recovery consultant, working within Harper Macleod’s… | View Profile | |
Lynne Stevenson | Senior Associate Lynne specialises in real estate and is highly experienced in… | View Profile | |
Fiona Strang | Associate Fiona is an associate who works across both our Corporate and Restructuring and Insolvency teams.… | View Profile | |
Caroline Summers | Partner Caroline specialises in all aspects of commercial property work. She has… | View Profile | |
Tom Thomas | Partner Tom specialises in intellectual property and technology related matters (including outsourcing)… | View Profile | |
Andrew Upton | Partner Andrew advises clients across both public and private sectors in relation… | View Profile | |
Christina Wason | Christina is an experienced personal injury solicitor, who primarily deals with advising… | View Profile | |
Adam de Ste Croix | Adam is an experienced and highly capable litigator, with considerable expertise and… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 79 Number of other UK fee-earners : 200Client Testimonials
CLIENT: Duncan Frew
COMPANY/FIRM Wolfie’s Whisky
TESTIMONIAL
Harper Macleod has been a long-term partner across several of our businesses and the team is our trusted advisor and legal partner in everything we do at Wolfie’s Whisky. They were instrumental during an accelerated launch phase for the brand and we are incredibly appreciative of their ongoing support and expertise while we continue to grow the business
CLIENT: Naomi Pohl
COMPANY/FIRM: Musicians’ Union
TESTIMONIAL: Working with Harper Macleod’s team has been fantastic and they have assisted us with many individual and collective cases for musicians, resulting in some significant wins. We appreciate their expertise on intellectual property in particular and look forward to working with them on issues such as music streaming and artificial intelligence in 2024.”
Client: Andrew Jack
COMPANY/FIRM: Natural Power
TESTIMONIAL: Harper Macleod has advised us on the new trademarks sought in the UK, US and beyond for the EchoSense brand. Jamie Watt has been a fantastic support, providing us with regular monitoring and advisory services and can always be relied upon to give timely, clear and commercially focused advice as we seek to protect our intellectual property and branding.
CLIENT: John Gordon
COMPANY/FIRM: Incentive Games
TESTIMONIAL: Jo and the Harper Macleod team have been great supporters and advisors. They are patient, supportive and understanding of our ambitions to grow something really special. With their background in supporting early stage and fast-growing businesses, they know the challenges and how to work around them.
CLIENT: Andrew Dalglish
COMPANY/FIRM: Albex Group
TESTIMONIAL: Harper Macleod knows our business intimately. The team works hard but in a pragmatic and strategic way because it understands the type of business we are, and what we need from our advisors. We know the team will always have our backs when we need it. The team has grown as we have, but we can still rely on the personal touch
CLIENT: Mark Wheeldon,
COMPANY/FIRM: Formedix
TESTIMONIAL: The diligence process is one of the most arduous tasks a founder will ever be put through and without the leadership of my US lawyer of 20 years, the excellent multi-faceted, burning the candles at both ends skills of Harper Macleod, coupled with some great tax lawyers advice we would never have closed this deal.
CLIENT: Allan Dallas
COMPANY/FIRM: RSE
TESTIMONIALS: Harper Macleod has supported the family for many years and supported us through several transactions as RSE has grown. The team at Harper Macleod has always been well-placed to deal with the increasing complexities of each transaction whilst retaining the feel of a personal relationship.
CLIENT: Neil Hall, Director of Financial and Corporate Services
COMPANY/FIRM: Link Group Limited
TESTIMONIAL: “Harper Macleod has demonstrated detailed knowledge and experience and a high level of expertise in the housing sector and Link has benefited from that.”
CLIENT: Nick Pollard, Director of Corporate Support Services
COMPANY/FIRM: Kingdom Housing Association Ltd
TESTIMONIAL: “In our view there is no doubt that our being assisted in this transaction by the team at Harper Macleod, which is renowned for its expertise in the Scottish market place, at a very early stage and then once engaged throughout the process to completion has made what was an intense experience one which has been delivered in extremely quick order. Based on our experience we are certain that Harper Macleod will continue to support future transactions in the sector and we have no hesitation in recommending them to our colleagues in the sector.”
CLIENT: Scott Lamont
CLIENT/FIRM: Pump Action
TESTIMONIAL: When we needed a corporate law firm for an important deal, we sought advice from a trusted friend and former lawyer who recommended Stephen Chan of Harper Macleod. From our initial call Stephen was insightful, professional, and knowledgeable, he guided us through each stage of the process and gave us excellent advice throughout. We would have no hesitation in recommending Harper Macleod, and in particular Stephen Chan, and Amy Mackenzie, who along with other team members ensured that every detail was covered and carried out efficiently and on time.”
CLIENT: Jim Scott
COMPANY/FIRM: Scotwood
TESTIMONIAL: I’m grateful to Paul Macdonald and the Harper Macleod team for their advice and expertise in negotiating the deal, which will benefit all parties.”
Diversity
Diversity Statement
We embrace all aspects of equality, diversity and inclusion and we fully meet our gender balance and equal pay requirements. In support of this, 64% of our workforce is female and 55% of our lawyers are female. We have an Equality, Diversity & Focus Group which meets regularly and one of our colleagues co-chairs the committee of Women in Law Scotland, which is a networking organisation designed to promote gender equality in the Scottish legal profession. It also creates a valuable forum for sharing best practice and ideas. As a firm, we provide annual Diversity & Inclusion training to colleagues. We publish our Gender Pay Gap Report annually on our website.
We are:
- An accredited Scottish Living Wage Employer;
- An Investors in People employer with Gold status;
- An Investors in Young People employer with Gold status;
- A Working Families Employer; and
- Committed to the Scottish Government’s Young Person’s Guarantee
We promote equality of opportunity and develop a diverse workforce which reflects the population of Scotland. For example, through our firm’s support for the creation and development of the Scottish Ethnic Minorities Lawyers Association (SEMLA). One of our Partners, Omar Ali, is on the steering group of SEMLA, which tackles the under-representation of ethnic minority lawyers in aspects of the Scottish legal profession and hosted a special virtual session at the very first ‘Celebrating Inclusion Event and Law Fair’ in October 2020. In 2023, Omar received the Achievement in Law award at the Scottish Asian Business Awards 2023.
We are signatories to the Faculty of Advocates’ Fair Instruction Policy which ensures that Advocates are instructed based on their skills, experience and ability and without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief or sexual orientation.
Our firm is fully committed to the development of Scotland’s young workforce and since 2017 we have employed more than 56 modern apprentices across our offices. 76% of our modern apprentices remain with us on a permanent position and have been further developed, equating to around 13% of our workforce. We are proud signatories to the Scottish Government’s Young Person’s Guarantee and are committed to providing the best opportunities we can for young people. We won SME Employer of the Year at the QA Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in 2023.
We recruit many people from socially disadvantaged diverse areas through our modern apprenticeship program offering opportunity for employment and the opportunity to develop skills and to have resultant career development in business functions. We use blind applications for trainee recruitment.
We signed up to the Social Mobility Pledge in 2015, and we are committed to creating opportunities that help people improve their lives and reach their full potential. We regularly work with organisations such as Career Ready, MCR Pathways and the Robertson Trust in addition to partnering with a wide range of schools in both low income and affluent areas to identify and publicise opportunities to help young people. We hold regular school and virtual events through our Work Experience programme, which takes place in February, June and November, providing virtual work experience for S5 and S6 pupils from secondary schools across Scotland.
Our commitment to equality and diversity is evidenced through our awards. We won ESG Firm of the Year at The Legal 500 Scotland Awards 2023 and at the QA Scotland Apprenticeship Awards (SSA) 2024 our Support Services Manager won Mentor of the Year Award while the firm was named SME Employer of the Year. At the QA SAA in 2021, the firm won the Promoting Diversity – Large Employer of the Year Award.
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Real estate > Social housing
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in Scotland
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing
- Dispute resolution > Debt recovery
- Employment > Immigration
- Insurance > Medical negligence: pursuer
- Insurance > Personal injury: defender
- Insurance > Personal injury: pursuer
- Private client > Agriculture and estates
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Private client > Family
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and executries
- Public sector > Local government
- Public sector > Parliamentary and public affairs
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Corporate and commercial > EU and competition
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy (excluding oil and gas)
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Projects
- Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in Scotland
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Environment
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Transport