Working to an ‘extremely high standard’ across IP, commercial, and reputation management issues, the Brodies LLP practice represents a diverse array of clients across the broadcasting, music, and technology sectors. The Edinburgh-based group is jointly chaired by Christine O’Neill KC and Martin Sloan; the former specialises in complex media law disputes, while the ‘very approachable’ Sloan  routinely acts on behalf of media-focused tech businesses and start-ups. Niall McLean is highly knowledgeable on defamation and data protection claims, Andy Nolan is an expert on image rights agreements, and Grant Strachan predominantly focuses on the life sciences sector.

Specialising in handling complex copyright infringement claims and managing IP portfolios, the ‘commercial and personable’ team at Burness Paull LLP is highly regarded by multinational media corporations and governing bodies in sports. Fraser MacKinven heads the practice, bringing expertise in assisting sports and media companies with M&A and joint ventures to the outfit. The ‘astute’ Colin Hulme is hailed for his content protection and rights management knowledge, while Megan Briggs is praised for advising on copyright enforcement proceedings. Pauline McCulloch primarily focuses on advertising and product labelling matters, and Benjamin McGlinchey concentrates on commercial contract affairs from Edinburgh. All lawyers are based in Glasgow unless otherwise stated.

Fielding a team of specialists primarily focused on the publishing sector, Anderson Strathern has extensive expertise in managing IP rights, employment policies, and HR initiatives on behalf of its burgeoning list of domestic and international clients. Based in Edinburgh, publishing expert Simon Brown heads the practice, bringing in-depth experience in the gamut of IP, IT, and corporate matters arising in the media and entertainment space, while Glasgow-based Douglas McLachlan stands out for his knowledge in the film and TV sphere. Also in Edinburgh, Barry Nichol concentrates on employment issues, and Katrina Lumsdaine deals with breach of privacy cases.

Leveraging its global footprint and ‘deep bench’ of specialised lawyers, CMS demonstrates significant strength in advising on complex sponsorship and advertising rights arrangements, alongside data protection disputes. Glasgow-based practice head Neeraj Thomas is a specialist in contentious IP litigation, while Edinburgh-based Duncan Turner notably focuses on M&A within the media space, as well as exploitation of image rights cases. Also based in Glasgow, the ‘pragmatic’ Kimberley Cross stands out for assisting clients with their digital media and branding strategy requirements.

Featuring the ‘exceptionally knowledgeable’ Jamie Watt at the helm, the Harper Macleod LLP practice has extensive expertise in multi-jurisdictional contract breach and copyright infringement claims, in tandem with a deep specialism in data protection matters. The Edinburgh-based Watt is an expert in trade marks, patent law, and cybersecurity issues. In Glasgow, Tom Thomas routinely advises on film and television production and location agreements. Other key Glasgow-based figures include E-Ming Fong, who regularly handles IT and tech sector disputes.

Heavily praised for its ‘practical, commercially aware’ approach- particularly for contractual arrangements and IP infringement disputes - Thorntons Law LLP regularly represents clients operating across the tech, music, and publishing sectors. Splitting his time between Glasgow and Edinburgh, Liam McMonagle has in-depth knowledge concerning all manner of IP protection and commercialisation issues, while Lesley Larg frequently advises major brands and publishing houses from Dundee. Also based in Dundee, Scott Milne is experienced in challenging classes of contempt restriction cases. Kirsty Stewart stands out for her work in music deals. IP associate Katy Dow is also recommended.

With substantial experience in the music, publishing, and video game sectors, the BTO Solicitors LLP practice is praised for its ability to handle both non-contentious and contentious mandates, ranging from complex commercial agreements to defamation cases. Paul Motion, who heads the Edinburgh-based team, specialises in copyright law, licensing and artist management contracts, while Lynn Richmond primarily focuses on data protection and commercialisation issues. Lauren McFarlane and Lily Morrison are also recommended.

Acting on behalf of major hotel groups and leisure companies, the Edinburgh-based DLA Piper team is highly regarded for drafting and negotiating global framework agreements, brand partnerships, and contract packages. Practice head John McKinlay is an expert in content licensing and brand exploitation proceedings. Linzi Penman is noted for her data protection expertise. Both Catriona Melton and Laura Maclennan are also recommended.