Paul Giles, who is noted by clients as showing ‘a genuine and impressive interest’ in clients’ issues, leads DLA Piper's construction practice, which is based in Manchester. The team is well-equipped to handle disputes, with notable work in student accommodation-related safety issues matters. David Moss has longstanding experience in handling disputes, while Alison Fagan focuses on risk management and contractual aspects of complex and high-value infrastructure projects; Fagan is noted as ’arguably the best in the business’ for PFI project disputes. Clare Rushton is also a key figure within the team, as is Abigail Holmes.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Clare Rushton has been a calming influence. In litigation, surprises are not welcome and we have been well-prepared by Clare and her team to ensure we always anticipate what is next.’

  • ‘DLA Piper's clear, concise and pragmatic approach sets it apart by streamlining complex legal processes for clients' understanding, providing straightforward advice and solutions tailored to clients' needs, minimising unnecessary legal jargon, and focusing on practical, achievable outcomes.'

  • ‘I've not experienced or faced any other legal practices in the narrow field of PFI contentious disputes that are as experienced or as well-equipped in achieving the best possible outcome for their clients, even from a poor starting position.'

  • 'The team seeks out and attracts high calibre associates and trainees from a range of backgrounds and cultures.'

  • ‘Liam Cowell provided a supportive, calm and strategic presence when required. Alison Fagan is arguably the best in the business when it comes to PFI projects in dispute.'

  • ‘DLA Piper's contentious construction practice are unflappable.'

  • 'In challenging conditions they offer calm and clear advice with a focus on detail.’

  • ‘Paul Giles shows a genuine and refreshing interest in the person and the business. Matthew Inglis is consistently calm and assured in his work.’

Key clients

  • The Association of Infrastructure Investors in Public Private Partnerships
  • Watkin Jones & Son Limited
  • Brunel University London

Work highlights

  • Advising the Association of Infrastructure Investors in Public Private Partnerships, several major international infrastructure investors, who have invested in UK infrastructure assets under the PPP model and have formed the AIIP.
  • Advising Watkin Jones & Son Limited in disputes concerning student accommodation blocks in Birmingham and Newcastle respectively, which Watkin Jones built under design and build JCT Contracts.
  • Acting for Brunel University London in respect of multiple fire safety defects discovered in the internal passive fire systems and the external walls across two phases of student accommodation buildings.

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.
David Moss
Hall of fameDLA Piper
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Alison Fagan
DLA Piper
Paul Giles
DLA Piper

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Paul Giles

Other key lawyers

Clare Rushton, Liam Cowell, Alison Fagan, Matthew Inglis, David Moss, Abigail Holmes