Its members praised as ‘premier public law specialists’, Bevan Brittan LLP has a wealth of experience advising authorities on governance and public law matters. The practice is led by the ’outstanding’ Virginia Cooper, who is recommended for her capabilities within the financial services sector where she advises clients such as the Financial Conduct Authority. Olivia Carter frequently acts for local authorities in complex judicial review challenges; she also has experience assisting the NHS with policy issues. The team has been strengthened by the addition of Amrita Hurst, who joined from Bates Wells in July 2023. Hurst is skilled in handling matters relating to healthcare, education, and social care. Melanie Carter left the firm in June 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘They are the premier public law specialists in the market. They understand how public authorities work, and how the court will think about a public law case.’

  • 'Olivia Carter is down-to-earth, clever, and pre-eminently sensible. Jason Tandy has great relationships with counsel in the area.'

  • 'Amy Tschobotko is a real talent: she is hyper-responsive, gets the law, and manages matters to a speedy conclusion very effectively.'

  • 'Amrita Hurst: pragmatic, client focused, legally hugely knowledgeable, and liked by clients. She is a huge asset to any team.'

  • 'Virginia Cooper is an outstanding partner. She is a very experienced public lawyer and has an impressive team that she runs effectively.'
  • 'This team has great technical knowledge. They are committed to their clients.'

  • ‘A team that really understands the public sector and the challenges it faces. Their knowledge of admin law is second to none and they offer real collaboration and practical advice.’
  • ‘Olivia Carter is an absolute star. She's a real expert in the law but with the ability to think tactically and provide clear advice that is understandable by a non-legal client.’

Key clients

  • Hft Ltd
  • Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority
  • Grant Thornton LLP
  • Historic England
  • Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
  • Financial Conduct Authority
  • Oxford University
  • Kent County Council
  • NHS England
  • Social Housing Regulator

Work highlights

  • Representing NHS England in defending a legal challenge to its decision to terminate a GPs medical services contract.
  • Advising Grant Thornton and Birmingham City Council on the financial meltdown at the largest local authority in Europe.
  • Advising Kent County Council on its public law duties regarding the care of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Virginia Cooper

Other key lawyers

Olivia Carter, Amrita Hurst, Jonathon Lodwick, Jason Tandy, Amy Tschobotko