Praised for its ‘intimate understanding of the digital assets and Web3 sector’, gunnercooke LLP’s fintech team is noted for its ability to draft regulatory frameworks and its deep expertise in the crypto space. ‘Sharp mind’ James Burnie is the key contact at the firm. He frequently assists regulators in the UK and globally with their understanding of  and approach to the cryptoassets industry. Kathryn Dodds’ broad practice encompasses work with DAOs for Web3 projects and advice on fundraising documentation. Meghan Millward is equipped to advise on the regulatory treatment of tokens.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ''The team has an intimate understanding of the digital assets and Web3 sector that few other professional advisors can match. The team are always happy to collaborate and explore various legal solutions to client problems with the core focus being bringing actionable and intelligent options to clients.’

  • ‘ Cross-border expertise and regulatory knowledge in the crypto and digital assets space.’

  • ‘gunnercooke stands out with its dedicated crypto legal team, advanced technological integration for streamlined processes, and proactive regulatory compliance strategies. Compared to other firms, their deep expertise in the crypto sector and tailored services uniquely position them to address the specific challenges and dynamics of the cryptocurrency industry, making them an ideal partner for your business.’

  • ‘I had the opportunity to instruct James Burnie and his team on several complex legal and regulatory issues pertaining to blockchain technology. He provided prompt and insightful advice, demonstrating innovative and strategic thinking.’

  • ‘The team understand our industry (digital assets) better than other firms we’ve delat with. The relationship is such at this stage that they feel like part of our team.’

  • ‘gunnercooke offers clients a unique opportunity to work with both traditional industry experts and technological pioneers. A combination perfect for the diverse needs of my clients.

  • ‘James Burnie is a seasoned regulatory lawyer with a particular interest in technology; specifically cryptocurrency.

  • ‘James Burnie has built a team of capable experts with real working knowledge of the subject areas they operate it. James is a sharp mind that has identified, and evolved the niche the team should focus on. That has brought tremendous success. ’

Key clients

  • Astana Financial Services Authority of Kazakhstan
  • Financial Services Commission of the Government of Mauritius
  • Copper
  • Attestant
  • Ziglu Limited
  • Coinpass
  • Helford Capital
  • Fiat Republic
  • ONE Group
  • Wonde Limited
  • Business Data Group
  • Bitstamp
  • BoomFi
  • Old Street Digital
  • Avantgarde
  • Nexus Mutual
  • Superscript

Work highlights

  • Assisted the Astana Financial Services Authority to draft its legal and regulatory framework for digital assets for Kazakhstan, particularly in relation to drafting the trading requirements for security and unregulated tokens, as well as on stablecoins.
  • Drafted the rules and guidance for the Mauritius cryptoassets framework, working closely alongside the Mauritius FSC.
  • Advising Fiat Republic on new products enabling the provision of benefits to users, as well as risk mitigation techniques when operating fiat payment rails for Web3 companies.

Other key lawyers

James Burnie, Kathryn Dodds, Meghan Millward