Mike Brookes
Lee & Thompson LLPStrong in both claimant and defendant-side work, Lee & Thompson LLP provides comprehensive reputation management advice to an array of clients, with a focus on the entertainment sector. The group 'has a very broad depth of knowledge and experience', demonstrating expertise in not only defamation and privacy matters, 'but also related areas such as data protection and copyright law'. A key contact for 'heavily contested and hard-fought litigation', co-head Mike Brookes advises leading broadcasters and media insurers on complex defamation and privacy cases. Co-leader Leo Dawkins, noted for being 'a superb strategist', handles defamation and data privacy work.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Leo Dawkins is very easy to work with, knowledgeable about the law and on top of the facts.’
‘Mike Brookes's cases are a testament to his control and mastery of the case coupled with his dogged determination to achieve the absolute best for his client.’
‘The team is diverse in background and has a very broad depth of knowledge and experience, taking in not just defamation and privacy but also related areas such as data protection and copyright law. The team is also unique in that they routinely act for both individual claimants and media defendants, meaning they understand how their counterparties think and what they are seeking to achieve.'
‘The team work together very well, playing to their individual strengths. Mike Brookes is great in heavily contested and hard-fought litigation. Leo Dawkins is a superb strategist.’
‘Mike Brookes and his team offer a superior level of service that combines communication excellence, industry expertise, and proactive risk management.'
‘Mike Brookes brings a unique blend of expertise and understanding to the table. His practice is distinguished by its comprehensive approach, seamlessly integrating clearance services into the production process. He doesn't just offer legal advice; he becomes an integral part of the production team, ensuring potential risks are identified and mitigated early.’
‘Mike Brookes is very responsive and offers sound, pragmatic advice. He also has an excellent understanding of the UK media landscape and tailors his advice accordingly. ’
Key clients
- Lee Anderson MP
- Maria Church
- Channel 5 Broadcasting Limited
- Peter Andre
- Paul Hollywood
- Former members of One Direction
- Ant McPartland
- Yoko Ono
- Various high-profile Film and TV Production companies and broadcasters
Work highlights
- Instructed to represent Lee Anderson MP (ex Deputy Chairman of the Conversative Party) in a libel claim commenced against him by Michael Hollis, arising out of a Facebook post made by the client.
- Continuing to act for former members of One Direction, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Liam Payne, in various reputation protection matters against the tabloid press.
- Defending Channel 5 in respect of a number of privacy claims that have been brought by individuals who featured in episodes of the programme "Can't Pay? We'll Take it Away", which depicts the execution of warrants and writs of possession by the High Court Enforcement Agents.
Lawyers
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.
Leo Dawkins
Lee & Thompson LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Mike Brookes, Leo Dawkins