Praised for its ‘strong commercial judicial review practice’, the parliamentary and public law practice at Burness Paull LLP advises on matters concerning statutory interpretations and constitutional developments in the UK and EU. Practice leader Hazel Moffat has considerable experience in parliamentary procedure and public affairs, parliamentary inquiries, statutory interpretation and legislative drafting, while Richard Lockhart works with government bodies on the development of key policies, legislation and regulation in the infrastructure investment, education, health and transport arenas. Louise McErlean is another key contact in the group. Fiona Killen left in June 2023.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The firm is involved in a growing number of public law cases. They have a strong commercial judicial review practice and are increasingly instructed by public bodies to defend judicial reviews.’
‘Louise McErlean is brilliant with clients, instructs the best counsel at the Bar who revel working with her, and she is sharp and bright. A real associate to watch.’
‘A very knowledgeable and capable team, tackling issues with a commercial approach and working hard to understand the client and the client's need. A real full service offering.’
‘Richard Lockhart and Hazel Moffat provide an exceptional service. They are very proactive, client-focused and technically skilled.’
'The team are responsive, bill promptly and accurately and have put in place a specific method of communication for new instructions.'
'Louise McErlean provides an excellent service and is very accessible.'
Key clients
- Scottish Public Services Ombudsman
- Arnold Clark Group
- Odfjell Technology Ltd
- Scottish Futures Trust
- Independent Monitoring Authority
- British American Tobacco
- Ethical Standards Commissioner
- Cromarty Firth Port Authority
- Scottish Water
- Scottish Government
Work highlights
- Advising the Independent Monitoring Authority on the proposed drafting of new court rules.
- Advising British American Tobacco on the potential impact of a ban on single-use vapes and other measures.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Louise McErlean
Burness Paull LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Hazel Moffat