Burness Paull LLP is sought after for its expertise in handling a wide range of property litigation issues, from building defects, land purchases, and development disputes, to dilapidations, lease terminations, and contractual disputes. The practice is spearheaded by Alan McMillan, an experienced commercial litigator and accredited mediator. Stephen Farrell, promoted to partner in August 2023, specialises in the telecoms sector and brings additional expertise in landlord-tenant disputes. Steven Guild services the firm’s North East Scotland client base from Aberdeen, advising on issues such as option contracts, commercial leases, and boundary disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The Burness Paull team are my go to'Scottish law firm. The partners here are clever, easy to work with, commercial, and solutions-oriented. ’
‘Alan McMillan has a fantastic profile in the property litigation world and is very experienced.’
‘Burness Paull's property litigation team seem to be involved in just about every important case in Scotland. They have a wide-ranging practice but in-depth knowledge in all areas of property litigation. They are the go-to firm for property litigation in Scotland.’
‘Alan McMillan is a font of knowledge and wisdom. He provides first-rate advice. The whole team is highly recommended.’
‘The team has a strong understanding of the telecoms market. They work well together, each providing different viewpoints and solutions to any legal issues. We have been very impressed with the service we have received from Burness Paull. ’
‘Stephen Farrell has been excellent. He clearly has a passion for the telecoms market and this passion is demonstrated in the way he approaches the customer's asks. ’
‘Client-focused approach and collaboration are key strengths.’
‘Friendly and approachable, they are great lawyers with a commercial focus.’
Key clients
- Scottish Water
- Vodafone
- Cornerstone Telecommunications Infrastructure Limited
- abrdn
- Cala Homes
- Neos Networks
- PizzaExpress
- Taylor Wimpey
- Link Housing Association
- London and Scottish Property Investment Management (LSPIM)
Work highlights
- Acted for Scottish Water in a major dispute over on-site infrastructure contributions.
- Acted for Cornerstone against Marks & Spencer in a telecoms appeal to the Inner House of the Court of Session.
- Acted for Ventgrove (a landlord) in a case concerning the validity of a break notice, in an appeal to the Inner House of the Court of Session.
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.
Stephen Farrell
Burness Paull LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Alan McMillan