Burness Paull LLP’s sports practice draws on the firm’s wider immigration, employment, property and IP expertise to provide clients, including leading clubs, individuals and governing bodies, with commercial and contentious advice. The team is led by the Edinburgh-based director Stephen Farrell, who is a dual-qualified (Scotland and England) commercial litigator with considerable experience in transferrable arbitrations. Also noted for their contentious capabilities are the Aberdeen-based Neil Smith, and senior associate Megan Briggs, who often handles sport-related trademark disputes. The immigration-focused Jamie Kerr is a go-to for clubs and players facing complex visa issues. All named individuals are based in Glasgow unless noted otherwise.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Stephen Farrell has developed an excellent track record of acting in football disputes. He is able, direct and commercially-focused.’
‘A leading practice in Scotland. They are highly visible and engaged in the sector.’
‘Stephen Farrell is conscientious and always keen to support.’
Key clients
- Scottish FA
- Scottish Rugby Union plc
- The Scottish Professional Football League
- Aberdeen FC
- Sir Alex Ferguson/ACF Sports Promotions
- Sky Limited
- Elite Sports Group Limited
- Queens Park FC
- Hibernian FC
- PicRights
Work highlights
- Acted for Elite Sports Group Ltd in their multi-million pound dispute with Rangers FC regarding their kit.
- Acted for the Scottish Professional Football League enforcing their intellectual property rights.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Stephen Farrell