The ‘extremely proactive and attentive’ group at Markel Law LLP handles a vast array of issues concerning policy coverage, and regulatory mandates. Mark Rankin is noted for his distinctive focus on the TMT sector, often defending claims involving contractual breaches and misrepresentation against policyholders. Christopher Burns is an expert in construction disputes, representing a diverse client roster of architects and engineers, in addition to acting for high court enforcement officers and agents.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team at Markel Law are marked leaders in what they do - in particular acting for insurer / insured clients. They know how a case will turn out and how to deal with clients in a direct and straightforward way that they respect and trust.’

  • ‘Christopher Burns is a stand-out partner - he has a high caseload but each client is important to him - he cuts through the noise and gets straight to the heart of the matter, understanding strengths and weaknesses instinctively.’

  • ‘Extremely proactive and attentive in resolving complex legal issues. Always attempt to think outside of the box and leave no stone unturned when dealing with my particular complex case. Thorough and vigorous when dealing with cases.’

  • ‘The team provides an exceptional service and have a number of very talented individuals. They have a proactive and efficient approach to claims, they keep clients up to date and involved, and they inspire confidence in their decision making. They have achieved some excellent results.’

  • ‘Mark Rankin has the ability to work through complex issues to find suitable, quick solutions in order to minimise legal costs on both sides. In dealing with complex claims, he is able to able to concisely set the relevant information out to his clients to enable them to make an informed decision.’

Key clients

  • Federation of Small Businesses

Work highlights

  • Advised insurers in relation to policy coverage regarding a £2m claim arising from allegedly defective property refurbishment works.
  • Representing a construction professional, defending a claim by a property development company in relation to alleged negligence in allowing a planning permission to expire, with the resultant loss of the majority of the development opportunity.
  • Representing an IT support provider in defence of a claim by a staff association alleging negligence and breach of contract following a ransomware attack.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Mark Rankin, Christopher Burns