Simons Muirhead Burton

Client Satisfaction

The practice at Simons Muirhead Burton handles both contentious and non-contentious matters in the film and television sectors, often working in collaboration with its defamation team. The group is jointly led by Razwana Akram, who is knowledgeable of SVODs, financing and production matters, and Nick Miller, who joined from ACK Media Law LLP in June 2023, and is experienced in matters concerning feature films, documentaries and TV shows. Disputes work is overseen by Stephen Shotnes, while Simon Goldberg assists with the development and production of film and television projects. These are also key areas of focus for Blaise Gaymer, who also advises on the acquisition, licensing and distribution of feature films and TV programmes across networks, media and streaming services.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Simons Muirhead Burton has a deep knowledge of the media landscape, partnered with their strengths in other key areas of any business. We have found their advice on the restructuring of our business to make it more attractive for industry investment to be exemplary.’
‘Simon Goldberg has been a standout partner for us, particularly in giving us the information and context that allowed us to make some challenging decisions for the business. As a female-run business we find Simon to be a great ally and advocate, who is always keen to make introductions and facilitate relationships of real value to our business.’
‘Excellent knowledge of the industry. Friendly and helpful staff. Lawyers who understand the tight timeframes and need to respond quickly in the media industry.’
‘Nick Miller has very in-depth knowledge of the industry. Extremely hard-working and dedicated.’

Key clients

UMO Project Ltd
Five Blind Dates Ltd
Penguin Lessons LTD
Jovera Pictures AG SA Ltd
S4C
Toho International
Article 1 Productions
Blackbox Media
Mojo Swoptops Productions
Dirty Films
Tabby Tales Limited
Wychwood Media Limited

Work highlights

Advising UMO Project Ltd on all production, finance and distribution matters for the film "My Fault London".
Advised Five Blind Dates LTD on all production, finance and distribution matters for its film "Untitled Nikita Project", including the main agreements with talent, crew, the financiers and Amazon.
Advised Penguin Lessons Ltc on all production, finance and distribution matters for the film "The Penguin Lessons", including the main agreements with talent, crew, financiers and the main distributor.