Chambers recommends:
DEFAMATION/ REPUTATION MANAGEMENT - Rank1

DAVENPORT LYONS



The Firm: Davenport Lyons continues to shine with its “sensible, constructive and seasoned approach.” Its “highly experienced operators know exactly what each client needs and deliver it every time,” one client enthused. The group is considered “one of the strongest players” for defendant work, having advised on some of the most high-profile matters around. Its broad expertise includes areas such as libel, privacy and confidentiality, contempt and other media-related matters. The team has also acted for the print media in complaints to the PCC.

The Lawyers: Kevin Bays is lauded by clients for being “fantastic to work with and expertly diplomatic.” One added: “He offers superb risk analysis.” “Even-tempered and reliable,” Philip Conway is “exceptionally competent and wise.” This “amazingly bright player” comes highly recommended for “providing an excellent deal for his clients.” “Level-headed” Mark Bateman was praised for his libel and privacy-related work, and noted for his “high-calibre” international expertise. Robin Shaw is appreciated for all his “hard work and continual efforts to achieve clients’ goals.” “Conscientious” Zoe Norden enters the tables as one to watch following feedback from impressed interviewees, who say “nothing seems too much or too difficult for her.”

Clients/Work Highlights: The team advised Express Newspapers on its Reynolds privilege defence against a claim brought by Graeme Souness regarding the reporting of the Lord Stevens/Quest inquiry. The team also acted for MGN in defending a libel claim brought by Paul McKenna against The Daily Mirror. The firm acts on a regular basis for numerous newspapers; Penguin Books; Macmillan Books; Private Eye and several book and magazine publishers.