Data Protection & Information Law
UK Guide 2025 : UK-wide
Band 3
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
+44 20 3088 0000About
Provided by A&O Shearman
In an increasingly regulated environment, businesses need to manage their data in order to manage their reputational and financial risks.
Across our international network, our data protection practitioners advise on all aspects of compliance with data privacy law.
We carry out cross-border data privacy surveys for clients, both to review their existing processes and procedures and to help set up new ventures. With significant experience of designing, drafting, reviewing and updating general corporate group and HR policies, we support clients with whistle-blowing; employee telephone, internet and email use; customer data; cross-border data transfers; and data protection consents. We also advise clients on the implications of freedom of information legislation, how to mitigate risk and the potential to use the legislation for competitive advantage.
Our team draws on specialists from a variety of complementary disciplines including employment and benefits, financial services, intellectual property, outsourcing, regulatory and regulatory litigation to deliver a comprehensive approach to our clients' data protection needs.
With strong working relationships with regulators across our network, we have developed a nuanced understanding of the attitude of regulators and to assist clients with risk-based analysis. This means we provide our clients with a quick and efficient response – regardless of time zone.
Chambers Review
A&O Shearman provides highly skilled counsel on the full range of matters within information law and can handle mandates requiring cross-border expertise. The team is regularly instructed by multinational clients, drawn largely from retail, financial services and media. It is particularly adept at guiding clients through regulatory issues before the ICO, as well as privacy matters requiring a broad global footprint.
Work Highlights
- A&O Shearman advised Nomura International Holdingson its review and analysis of data processing undertaken by 100+ third-party vendors.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"A&O Shearman is on the cutting edge of emerging areas like AI and cyber. They have a world-class global cyber and data protection team."
"They are responsive and have a deep level of specialist expertise that is deployed in a practical and pragmatic way. They identify risks and provide strategic advice."
"A&O Shearman provides a fast response. They deliver very practical, clear and decisive advice."
"A&O Shearman has a wealth of hands-on experience and a practical approach."
"They have in-depth knowledge at all levels and handle complex queries well."
"A&O Shearman is on the cutting edge of emerging areas like AI and cyber. They have a world-class global cyber and data protection team."
"They are responsive and have a deep level of specialist expertise that is deployed in a practical and pragmatic way. They identify risks and provide strategic advice."
"A&O Shearman provides a fast response. They deliver very practical, clear and decisive advice."
"A&O Shearman has a wealth of hands-on experience and a practical approach."
"They have in-depth knowledge at all levels and handle complex queries well."
Notable Practitioners
Jane Finlayson-Brown is recommended for her insight into data privacy across a range of products, including emerging technologies. Her skills encompass data transfers, including through the sale of data-rich assets, as well as conveying data across jurisdictions.
"It is a pleasure working with Jane; she understands our business and is always responsive to queries."
"Jane is a towering figure in the field of data and technology. She has the most incredible grasp of the complexities of this challenging and fast-moving area."
"She is an excellent lawyer."
Nigel Parker has the respect of international clients for his advice on data compliance across multiple jurisdictions. He is well versed in cybersecurity as well as data transfers, including in relation to corporate transactions.
"Nigel is a solid lawyer."
Ffion Flockhart is the global head of cybersecurity at A&O Shearman and is highly regarded for her handling of breach incidents. She navigates clients through the evolving cyber regulatory landscape.
"Ffion is a genius when it comes to managing large-scale and complex breach cases. She has a deep understanding of the regulatory environment."
"She has a wide range of experience and deep expertise in the cyber space. She has gained the trust of our cyber professionals and impressed our C-suite."
"Ffion has built a world-class cyber incident response practice and is extremely dedicated to her clients. She goes the extra mile."
Karishma Brahmbhatt is recognised for her ability to advise on a range of data protection matters and attracts a broad client base of high-profile companies. Her knowledge spans GDPR compliance, risk mitigation and breach response.
Ranked Lawyers at
A&O Shearman
UK-wide
Industries
Provided by A&O Shearman
Automobile
Energy
Financial services
Life Sciences
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Retail
Software and computer services
Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT)
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