Administrative & Public Law
UK Guide 2025 : Scotland
Band 1
Contact number
0131 228 3777About
Provided by Brodies LLP
We advise clients on all aspects of administrative and public law, whether in relation to legislation; parliamentary advice; judicial review; local government or public procurement.
We are instructed in Scotland’s highest profile public law cases in the Scottish Courts, Supreme Court and Court of Justice of the European Union, and our expertise is sought by clients in both public sector and commercial organisations.
Chambers Review
Brodies boasts a pre-eminent public and administrative law practice that is known for defending the Scottish government, regulators, local authorities and public bodies against a wide range of challenges. The firm also advises on complex constitutional, regulatory and governance issues. It is particularly prominent for its work advising the Scottish government on Brexit and related cases. The team has capabilities that include advocating on behalf of clients, as well as advising on litigation and legislation.
Work Highlights
- Brodies represented Marine Scotland in a judicial review brought by the Open Seas Trust which challenged how marine licensing decisions were made.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The lawyers are basically an extension of our team and showcase an in-depth understanding of our team. They speak our language and provide deep knowledge of our organisation."
"The team is at the top of its game and able to advise on the most complex, sensitive and contentious matters. Their calm approach is hugely reassuring and allows them to get the job done."
"Brodies provide excellent support based on clear knowledge of client organisations as well as operational and policy contexts."
"The lawyers are basically an extension of our team and showcase an in-depth understanding of our team. They speak our language and provide deep knowledge of our organisation."
"The team is at the top of its game and able to advise on the most complex, sensitive and contentious matters. Their calm approach is hugely reassuring and allows them to get the job done."
"Brodies provide excellent support based on clear knowledge of client organisations as well as operational and policy contexts."
Notable Practitioners
Christine O'Neill is a partner in the Brodies government, competition and regulation team. She is a prominent administrative and public law practitioner with first-class expertise in high-profile public inquiries and judicial reviews.
"Christine provides high-quality advice and customer focus which are enhanced by a deep understanding of organisational and policy contexts."
"Her ability to give sage advice that is both a clear interpretation of the law and sensitive to clients’ needs and challenges makes for a highly trusted and valued relationship."
"Christine is exceptional at untangling very complex problems."
Charles Livingstone is an experienced lawyer in the administrative and public law practice at Brodies. He is well known for his expertise in judicial review proceedings relating to competition, procurement and data protection.
"Charles is very strategic in his thinking and offers solutions that we haven't considered. He can come up with business-focused solutions, not just look at things from a legal angle."
Niall McLean is a partner and solicitor advocate in the government, regulation and competition practice at Brodies. He is noted for his experience advising public and private sector clients on a range of public law matters, including governance, statutory appeals and judicial reviews.
"Niall is a brilliant lawyer with the ability to stay calm in all situations. He has a keen eye for technical detail but is also personable and commercially astute."
Ranked Lawyers at
Brodies LLP
Scotland