Lauded for its 'unrivalled' expertise in advertising and marketing matters, Osborne Clarke LLP stands out for its work in AdTech and data-driven advertising, most notably issues related to the Digital Services Act (DSA), the Digital Markets Act and GDPR requirements for advertising and marketing campaigns. The team also advises on emerging issues in the sector, such as the regulatory risks and contractual issues associated with the use of AI in the creation and targeting of ad content. Greenwashing has also been a key area of focus for the practice, which has recently advised on green claims related to advertising campaigns. Nick Johnson leads the team alongside John Davidson-Kelly; Johnson advises on data-driven marketing issues and digital regulation, while Davidson-Kelly focuses on international media and entertainment agreements. Anna Williams centres her practice on advertising and sponsorships, often advising on IP licensing, promotions and digital marketing. Ben Dunham is a name to note for advertising, consumer, digital and platform regulations. Jamie Heatly and Chloe Deng are also noted for their work on regulatory matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Accessible, practical advice. Collaborative and friendly.’

  • ‘The people at this firm are what really make it special. They know, understand and often have experience working at the various regulators which makes their advice super relevant and always pragmatic.’

  • ‘Nick Johnson is extremely knowledgeable, approachable and really gets under the hood of your business. It is an absolute pleasure working with him.’

  • ‘They're simply the premier go-to law firm for advertising and marketing issues. Their expertise in advertising and marketing is unrivalled and it's easy to see why - they've seen it all. All my advice received has been pragmatic and mindful of our legal risk profile. They cut through the noise and give succinct and robust recommendations based on experience. ’

  • ‘Nick Johnson and Ben Dunham are at the top of their game - unbeatable bench strength and depth of knowledge. Any time I've required an urgent sense check, they're always bang on with their legal recommendation. Their personable nature is particularly appreciated, as well as their eagerness to chew the fat on thorny legal issues with no clear answer. ’

  • ‘Commercially pragmatic, legally knowledgeable, extremely personable and able to work in the way that we need them to - Osborne Clarke has been a standout firm.’

Key clients

  • Meta
  • Warner Bros Discovery
  • News UK
  • Chanel
  • L'Oréal
  • The Trade Desk
  • Comcast
  • Barratt Homes
  • Meta
  • Bloomsbury
  • Harper Collins

Work highlights

  • Acting for WBD in various contractual arrangements relating to media buying, sponsorship arrangements and handling contractual arrangements for promotional events for the film Barbie.
  • Advising the publisher of The Times and The Sun on various marketing campaigns.
  • Advising The Trade Desk on advertising-related legal and regulatory issues.

Lawyers

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.

Nick Johnson, John Davidson-Kelly

Other key lawyers

Anna Williams, Ben Dunham, Rob Guthrie, Jamie Heatly, Chole Deng