For the clients of Bristows LLP, ‘everything just happens in a very smooth way to a high level of satisfaction’. Mark Watts heads up the data protection team, leveraging his particular expertise in managing global compliance projects and regulatory litigation. Marc Dautlich‘s practice focuses primarily on the technology and life sciences sectors, reflecting a broader firm-wide specialism. Alex Keenlyside is a key name for claims brought in relation to content, as is ’standout data protection professional‘ Hannah Crowther. The group is well regarded for its strength in depth at all levels, with notable junior specialists including Jamie Drucker and Faye Harrison. In spring 2024, the department welcomed Julian Darrell, the former European head of litigation at TikTok.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The Bristows team has a very strong focus on interpersonal relationships. Everything just happens in a very smooth way to a high level of satisfaction.'
  • 'We work primarily with Mark Watts and Jamie Drucker. Both are highly knowledgeable and professional, and have a very strong focus on understanding client requirements.'
  • 'They have lawyers who understand the need for a company to be practical, so there is a good balance of legal analysis, and practical and actionable solutions.'
  • 'The team combines technical excellence with a pragmatic and commercial approach. They have taken the time to get to know our business and tailor advice accordingly.'
  • 'Marc Dautlich - we have worked with Marc for a number of years and he has always impressed with his expertise, clear communication and approachable manner.'
  • 'Very responsive and knowledgeable team.'
  • 'Hannah Crowther is trusted, expert, always on hand and appreciative of the urgency and complexity of any request. A standout data protection professional.'

Key clients

  • OpenAI
  • Google
  • TikTok
  • DeepMind
  • Twitter/X
  • Xandr
  • Nationwide
  • Warner Bros Discovery
  • Direct Marketing Association
  • Meta

Work highlights

  • Advising OpenAI on all aspects of data protection compliance.
  • Advising Warner Bros Discovery on a broad range of data protection matters, including implementation of AI technologies, processing of biometric data and the roll-out of the MAX streaming service.
  • Provided EU and UK-wide data protection compliance support to X, inclduing preparing risk assessments, providing product counselling advice, and supporting X with regulatory engagements with the Irish Data Protection Commission.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Mark Watts

Other key lawyers

Jamie Drucker, Hannah Crowther, Marc Dautlich, Christopher Millard, Alex Keenlyside, Faye Harrison, Julian Darrell