Known best for its insurance expertise, BTO Solicitors LLP fields a ‘strong team of very competent and knowledgeable’ construction lawyers. The department is spearheaded by Fraser Hopkins, who focuses on dispute resolution and risk avoidance. Michael Kitson is a key figure within the team, advising both public and private sector clients on the procurement aspects of construction projects.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team is very approachable and gives sound advice. They can identify strengths and weaknesses of cases.’

  • ‘Fraser Hopkins is quick to identify relevant legal issues. He will invariably be available at short notice for a telephone call to discuss emerging issues.’

  • ‘Typically BTO gets successful outcomes for us, with a good success rate in dispute resolution, debt recovery and negotiation of SoAs.’

  • ‘Fraser Hopkins leads a strong team of very competent and knowledgeable construction solicitors who are extremely experienced and skilled in all aspects of dispute resolution.’

  • ‘Fraser Hopkins and his team worked around the clock to assist clients. They provided good and sound advice throughout the dispute resolution process.'

  • ‘The individuals bring a different perspective to legal matters with creative thinking to problematic issues. They also work to tight timescales, which is an essential skill in adjudications.’

  • ‘A good solid service. Efficient and timely responses.’

  • ‘Fraser Hopkins is hugely experienced, calm, and focused.’

Key clients

  • PetroIneos Manufacturing Scotland Limited
  • Gilbert-Ash Limited
  • Trelleborg Offshore & Construction AB
  • RSA
  • Bell Building Projects Limited
  • Allan Water Homes Limited
  • Springfield Properties PLC
  • AXA XL/Chubb
  • Mitchell Diesel Limited (t/a Mitchell Powersystems)
  • Loreburn Housing Association Limited
  • AIG Insurance
  • New College Lanarkshire
  • Richardson & Starling (Northern) Limited
  • The Richmond Fellowship Scotland Limited
  • Robt. Jones Beacon Limited
  • Clyde Valley Housing Association Limited
  • Redpath Construction Limited

Work highlights

  • Successfully advised a main contractor in a series of four adjudications in relation to a main contract dispute arising from office refurbishment work to a Grade A listed building in central London.
  • Advised Bell Building Projects Limited in the negotiation of a building contract with a national housebuilder in relation to life-critical cladding remediation works.
  • Advised a main contractor on various claims under, and possible variation to the terms of, a main contract for the design and construction of a major hotel development in Glasgow City Centre.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Fraser Hopkins

Other key lawyers

Michael Collins, Michael Kitson