Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP has been building this team for over 20 years and it shows. They have genuine strength of depth at all levels, with industry leaders in key positions’. The practice is renowned for its experience in all key sectors of the rail industry, with particular expertise in rail franchising/operating contracts. It has substantial expertise in rolling stock and infrastructure matters, and is highly sought after for its parliamentary and planning knowledge. Agnes Koko is ’really well-known’ for her extensive experience in advising on complex rail infrastructure projects. These projects include both ‘brown field’ and ’green field’ projects. Another core area of her practice is advising on concession agreements in the UK, and in international markets. Anne Harris is recommended for her advice on rail-related commercial contracts. This work includes advising on rail franchise agreements, regulated access agreements, and on rail project procurement-related issues. William Spickett remains busy working on major transport and infrastructure projects.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Andrew Bell has been a great source of knowledge in developing solutions to commercial issues we experienced. His work is always of a very high standard, delivered on time. ’

  • ‘Will Spickett and Lucy Griffiths provided clear, easy to understand advice on the interaction between the minimum service levels regime and the rail franchising contractual regime and were valued for their ability to explain complex issues in plain English.'

  • ‘Agnes Koko and Will Spickett  - apart from being stand out lawyers who are able to provide advice on all aspects of our projects, we know that they truly care about us as their client. Whatever hurdles we face, they are prepared to roll their sleeves up and work with us.' 

  • ‘Eversheds Sutherland has been building this team for over 20 years and it shows. They have genuine strength of depth at all levels, with industry leaders in key positions. They are a safe set of hands and are responsive and a pleasure to deal with.’

  • ‘Agnes Koko is an excellent rail lawyer. She is very experienced in rail deals and has deep subject matter knowledge. She works in a very collaborative manner with the client and other advisors, and is always available to give an opinion/undertake work.’

  • ‘Agnes Koko- Her knowledge on all things rolling stock contracts makes her stand out amongst her peers. A lawyer you want by your side and delivers for the client time after time. Not afraid to give you an opinion when you need it, but equally prepared to listen to all arguments.'

  • 'William Spickett - Has built up a depth of knowledge in rail related contracts and like Agnes is great to work with. His advice is well-informed and if there is a tricky issue he will talk you through it to help you make the right decision.’
  • ‘Agnes Koko and Will Spickett - both are masters of detail and supremely confident in their analysis of even the most complex contract structures. They are accomplished in "rolling their selves up" and getting to grips with technical and commercial risks and details.’

Key clients

  • Department for Transport
  • Network Rail Infrastructure Limited
  • Deutsche Bahn International Operations GmbH
  • Elsewedy Electric
  • Aecon O&M
  • ONxpress Operations Inc
  • TransPennine Trains Limited
  • High Speed Two Limited
  • Roads and Transport Authority Dubai
  • Transport for the West Midlands

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.
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.

Agnes Koko

Other key lawyers

Anne Harris, William Spickett, Andrew Bell, Lucy Griffiths