Information Technology: London

Baker & McKenzie houses a large, market-leading practice which is able to advise clients on issues across the full spectrum of IT, including data protection, outsourcing, cloud computing, social media, e-commerce, telecoms and IP. Peers acclaim the firm for its "great international and domestic work," with one source describing this group as a "full-service technology practice with leading individuals in the IP and IT fields, as well as more corporate support." In recent highlights the firm advised innovative online gaming company OnLive on its UK launch, including various regulatory and e-commerce matters. It has also acted for Meltwater on its dispute with the Newspaper Licensing Agency concerning the potential licensing of news search engines; this instruction has seen the firm represent its client in both the Court of Appeal and the Copyright Tribunal. Other key clients include Google, Telefónica UK, Carlsberg and Sony.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Harry Small is described as a "sharp litigator" by admiring peers. He also has a formidable non-contentious practice, drawing upon his deep involvement in the technology sector to advise clients on outsourcing, data protection, e-commerce and regulatory matters.

Robbie Downing has a diverse practice, serving the technology and telecoms sectors on a range of global risk, privacy and compliance issues.

Key partner Michael Hart is well known for his adept handling of contentious IT matters, including mediations.

Ben Allgrove was a key partner in the firm's recent work for OnLive. He is particularly known for his handling of IT/IP crossover work.

Steve Holmes is an outsourcing specialist, although he also handles a range of other matters concerning social media, cloud computing and gaming. He was also a key adviser to OnLive.

Christina Demetriades is noted for her expertise in the fields of outsourcing, systems integration and e-commerce, wherein she advises key clients in the technology and financial sectors, amongst others.

Ilana Saltzman has a wealth of experience in the field of data protection and e-commerce, including advising on regulatory, commercial and IP issues.

Bird & Bird seems unassailable in its position as one of the broadest and deepest IT firms nationwide. In addition, its London office is at the heart of a strong, integrated IT team throughout Europe. One recent highlight saw the team advise the UK Government's Department for Energy and Climate Change on an anticipated roll-out of smart metering technology. The team acts for suppliers, purchasers, public sector organisations and private companies. Clients include BT, Everything Everywhere and University College London Hospital.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients know that with Roger Bickerstaff on their matters they are “getting excellent attention” from an experienced and accomplished expert. He is joint head of the firm's global IT sector group.

Graham Smith has a very strong IT dispute resolution practice and is regarded as an expert on all things IT and electronics-related. He takes a keen interest in the convergence of IT, telecoms and satellite technologies.

Dominic Cook focuses on commercial and transactional advice to hi-tech and telecoms clients, not least in the mobile telephony sector on matters relating to mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) projects.

Christian Bartsch leads the firm's work advising financial services institutions on their outsourcing of IT services and adoption of open source software and cloud computing

Herbert Smith is recognised as an "excellent litigation force" on IT disputes, although its practice also encompasses a range of non-contentious matters ranging from outsourcing, licensing, e-commerce and software development, to smart metering and electronic trading. Recent highlights include the firm's representation of Man Group in connection with its USD200 million global IT transformation project and related outsourcing of services. It has also acted for Scottish & Southern on a £2 billion supply transformation project. Clients find the firm to be "outstanding - they were always on point on the more arcane aspects of software deals, and alive to the commercial issues."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nick Pantlin advises on a range of IT-related matters, including licensing, e-commerce and procurement. Sources describe him as a "cool and very safe pair of hands" who "gets to the crisp issues really quickly." He has acted for a diverse range of clients recently, and was a key partner advising both Man Group and Scottish & Southern. In other work highlights he has advised BSkyB on procurement contracts, and the LSE on a new IT platform for Direct Market Access, as well as the use of its exchange controls systems.

Key partner Nick Elverston recently assisted LG Electronics with extending its global equipment supply contracts with Vodafone, which are valued at EUR400-500 million per year.

The "very impressive" Mark Turner is noted for his capacity to advise on large-scale IT projects. He has been providing ongoing advice to Transport for London (TfL) concerning its ticketing and fares collection system. This has recently involved TfL's termination of an agreement with Cubic Corporation, as well as advice on contactless card technology and related proposals to substitute contactless bank cards for the Oyster card.

Kemp Little is a dedicated technology and digital media specialist firm, and is ideally equipped to handle large and technically sophisticated business process and outsourcing solutions for clients in any industry. The team acts for buyers and suppliers, handling service contracts and related litigation, while it also advises on matters as diverse as cloud computing, data protection and software application development. Clients include Accenture, Bradford & Bingley/Northern Rock, Microsoft and Thomson Reuters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Kemp is universally recognised as a doyen of technology law, admired for his “unsurpassable profile and sharp focus.” In addition to his pure IT and outsourcing expertise, he is also a capable practitioner on related IP and regulatory matters, and has an enviable client base in the financial services, professional services and travel sectors.

Paul O'Hare is a highly regarded technology expert, and leads the firm's outsourcing practice. He is also the legal director of the National Outsourcing Association, the discipline's UK industry body.

Andrew Joint is praised for his superb industry knowledge and ability to simplify complex legal arguments. He handles the full range of IT matters and acts for private and public entities, suppliers and purchasers.

Pinsent Masons is an established and venerable name in IT law, having forged a strong reputation in supplier-side work, public sector procurement contracts and financial services-related IT issues. The firm is also known for the strength of its contentious work, and for its lawyers' skills at renegotiating contracts. One key highlight has seen the firm advise the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the UK broadband roll-out project, worth over £1 billion. Other clients include AXA, Fujitsu Services and the Cabinet Office.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Iain Monaghan drafts, negotiates and refines contracts relating to outsourcing and systems integration on behalf of both private and public sector clients. He is a published authority on the law regarding IT and computing contracts.

Robert McCallough is an experienced and effective IT litigator, having managed disputes involving outsourcing and procurement contracts, IT product liability and IP rights issues. He oversees the firm's relationship with key client Fujitsu Services.

Sources note that David Isaac “wants to see that the client is happy and well served.” He heads the advanced manufacturing and technology services group, and his principal focus is on advising clients on domestic and cross-border outsourcing implementation.

David Barker is a litigation and dispute resolution specialist with an emphasis on TMT issues. In non-contentious work he counsels on software, telecoms and outsourcing. Clients appreciate that he knows when “we need to throw the kitchen sink at this dispute,” as well as when to save money on a claim.

Berwin Leighton Paisner advises both purchasers and suppliers on major outsourcing deals, and also houses considerable expertise in cloud computing and data centres. Recent work highlights have seen the firm advise National Grid on a complex £1 billion outsourcing deal involving various issues, including software development and data centres. The firm has also acted for Tesco on IT installation and maintenance, and has been representing PRS for Music in attempts to create a global music rights database for the purposes of online licensing.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources say that practice head Mark Lewis is "extremely knowledgeable" and "very pragmatic" in his approach to IT matters. He handles a range of outsourcing and framework agreements and is recognised for his pioneering role in both electronic banking and offshore outsourcing.

Richard Chapman brings a "blend of technical knowledge and on the ground experience, allied with legal knowledge;" sources also note his previous in-house experience. He has led the teams acting for both National Grid and Tesco.

Adam Rose is recognised for his handling of IT and outsourcing contracts across a range of industry sectors.

This firm is renowned for its handling of outsourcing, data protection, telecoms, and cloud computing matters, while it can also draw upon some of the most formidable IP practitioners in the market. It acts for the Business Software Alliance on the enforcement of software licences within the UK; this organisation comprises major software companies including Microsoft, Autodesk, Apple, Adobe and Symantec. The firm has also acted for Capgemini on a range of non-contentious and contentious IT matters, including representing the client in a dispute with Cable & Wireless concerning data back-up charges.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Christopher Millard is a venerable figure in the IT sphere. He has a wealth of experience in the field of privacy and information law, and his advice in this regard is sought after across the academic, political and commercial spheres.

Department head Mark Watts has represented Google in complex regulatory work arising from its collection of data via WiFi networks during the expansion of its StreetView service. One clients praises him as follows: "I like the way he'll always give me a steer on something - he doesn't sit on the fence. He's helped us get some very good results in difficult situations."

Toby Crick has acted for clients on a range of matters concerning IT infrastructure and the development of new products, as well as advising on issues surrounding cloud computing and social media.

Peers consider this to be "one of the top practices, with a good international platform," while others state that the firm "has done very well in the public sector." Key public sector clients include the Financial Ombudsman Service and The Pensions Regulator, amongst others. The firm's private sector clients include financial institutions such as Barclays and Lloyds TSB; major corporates, including Christie's, Honda and ITV; and supplier-side clients such as HCL Technologies.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Kit Burden is "good at focusing on points that are critical to his clients," according to sources. He has recently advised TUI on the consolidation of its reservations systems, as well as handling a range of outsourcing mandates in the financial services sector.  

Mark O'Conor is described as a "very calm, sensible practitioner." His key areas of expertise lie in financial services and cloud computing matters.

Field Fisher Waterhouse has one of the largest commercial technology practices in the city with over 40 lawyers devoted to IT work. The firm acts for a diverse client base of public and private entities, on both the supplier and purchaser side. The team is handling an increasing volume of work in the fields of satellite technology, financial services and energy and natural resources, as well as acting for a number of leading Indian outsourcing and consulting firms. Clients include HCL, Tata/Tata Consulting Services, the Treasury Solicitor's Department and Vodafone.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Hamish Sandison handles commercial and transactional matters for public sector clients and private corporations, as well as their suppliers. He is knowledgeable in matters relating to public procurement, PFI and PPP and outsourcing transactions.

The “excellent and successful” Michael Chissick advises on high-value outsourcing transactions and supervises many of the team's most complex and demanding projects. He has recently handled major instructions from Accenture and Tata Consulting Services.

Sources find that Paul Barton has valuable experience of procurement projects and is up to date with current legislation and trends. He counts market-leading suppliers and government bodies amongst his clients.

John Worthy has a wealth of experience advising multinational household names in the financial services, transport and telecoms sectors on large, cross-border outsourcing and technology procurement transactions.

Simon Briskman counsels large corporates in many fields on data security, outsourcing, technology and IT-related corporate governance issues and practices. Clients find him to be “very user-friendly and responsive.”

Nick Holland concentrates mainly on multi-jurisdictional outsourcing and telecoms projects, commercial IT contracts and data protection issues.

Paul Graham, who joins from Field Fisher Waterhouse, is praised for his transactional work on behalf of a range of TMT clients. He is also noted for his commercial nous, thoroughness and skill at negotiating contracts.

Hogan Lovells' reputation as an assured provider of advice on technology solutions continues to grow, and the firm's IT offering is no exception to this trend. The team, which includes over 20 lawyers, handles domestic and international IT outsourcing projects of the utmost complexity, as well as disputes regarding service levels and credits, limitations of liability, IP rights ownership, disclaimers and warranties. Clients include Barclays, Citi, HTC and Royal Mail.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources are impressed with Quentin Archer's command of developments in technology law: “IT is a changeable industry and no sooner do we think of things, he is one step ahead,” says one interviewee. His practice revolves around the drafting and negotiation of outsourcing and technology contracts, disputes and data protection.

Conor Ward advises on the outsourcing of IT and telecoms services, integration, systems and call centre development projects. He is also a veteran litigator of IT and telecoms disputes.

Peers find Mark Taylor “a pleasure to deal with” on the other side of complex business process outsourcing and technology contract negotiations. He also advises on related IP and data protection matters, and manages disputes for clients.

Latham & Watkins, noted for the sheer resources and global platform which it offers clients on IT matters, is recognised as having one of the best outsourcing practices in the country. The team caters to the needs of international corporations, technology suppliers and private and public purchasers of IT services. It also has a very strong presence in the financial services sector, where clients often require extremely complex IT solutions, and are frequently involved in high-stakes litigation. Other sectors which the firm serves include food and drink companies, manufacturers, media groups and major retailers.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Moyle focuses on technology, telecoms and outsourcing transactions. He has deep sector knowledge and experience of the energy, financial services, government, life sciences, retail and telecoms spaces.

Martin Cotterill is an IT, business transformation and outsourcing practitioner of long-standing. In a recent matter he counselled worldwide retailer Bare Escentuals on its online marketing and distribution agreements.

Gail Crawford co-chairs the firm's internet and digital media industry practice group. She advises emerging businesses as well as multinational corporate titans, and is also a leading light of the firm's India practice.

This magic circle heavyweight has the resources and depth of knowledge to support the largest multinational clients in their acquisition of IT services and related litigation. Peers widely admire Linklaters' grasp of IT, which it demonstrates its prowess in through work for its high-profile clients and the complex nature of its work in contractual, commercial and transactional matters. Key clients include BP, Citi, Visa Europe, RBS, Lloyds TSB and PwC.

KEY INDIVIDUALS John Crozier is the firm's global head of TMT/IP and also leads the outsourcing practice. He is described as a “class act” by market sources, who speak highly of his ability to see beyond the detail, as well as of the clarity of his advice.

Richard Cumbley advises on complex outsourcing and IT projects. He also manages litigation in cases where service provision fails or is contested. Clients appreciate his balance between deep subject area knowledge and commercial pragmatism.

This firm is known in technology circles as a big-ticket outsourcing specialist, with a particularly strong reputation for government telecoms and IT outsourcing projects. The team looks after large and sophisticated licensing, development and distribution agreements, technology-heavy corporate acquisitions and disposals, and litigation regarding IT disputes. Clients include AstraZeneca, Barclays Bank, Hewlett-Packard and Vodafone.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Laurence Jacobs has extensive experience of handling and resolving IT disputes. He heads the firm's technology and outsourcing practice group. He is described as “excellent. Very clever indeed.” He and colleague Sean Keaton are also praised for their “extraordinary” attention to detail.

Sean Keaton's focus on the realities faced by business leadership, coupled with his commercial experience, is much appreciated by clients, who state that his advice is “very valuable to us in seeing where the day-to-day problems in the contract lie.” 

Joel Harrison “punches above his weight,” according to established peers, and the abilities he has shown in all manner of IT and outsourcing matters are noted with approval by leading lawyers in the marketplace.

Julian Stait leads the litigation and arbitration practice group in London. He is a veteran of some of the most significant IT and TMT litigations in senior UK courts. One key market source notes that he is “a hard-working, tenacious litigator.”

The IT work undertaken by the lawyers at this firm is often at the pinnacle of technological sophistication. Its workload consists of complex, often international, technology transactions, outsourcing and resourcing, cutting-edge information projects and day-to-day advice work, for a range of clients at the intersection of media, entertainment and TMT. The group acts for both suppliers and purchasers of IT, and has played a crucial role in Intel Corporation's drive to reinvent its corporate structure with a number of targeted acquisitions.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Alistair Maughan has a “terrific following within the public sector,” and acts for various Government bodies as well as corporate purchasers of IT services. Clients include HMRC, Panasonic and the UK Border Agency.

Christopher Coulter advises buyers and suppliers of IT on their contracts and commercial transactions. He works with a number of prominent organisations in the TMT sector, including Autodesk, Les Cinémas Gaumont Pathé and Odeon & UCI Cinemas.

Tim Roughton advises suppliers and purchasers on complex business process outsourcing and technology transactions and projects. He has recently acted on behalf of Amadeus IT, Odeon & UCI Cinemas and Phoenix Group.

Olswang remains a major name for specialist legal knowledge regarding the technology field, and it carries out mandates on behalf of some of the world's leading companies in that sector. It handles contracts stipulating terms and conditions of IT service provision, as well as engaging in high-stakes litigation, and merger and acquisition activity involving the transfer of technology and IP rights. Clients include BAE Systems, eBay, Microsoft and Yahoo!

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clive Gringras leads the firm's technology practice, and engages in complex transactions and IP rights protection, as well as litigation. He spends a significant portion of his time helping US technology and e-commerce firms to roll out their services throughout the world.

Iain Stansfield works at the interface of IT and IP, advising on commercial and transactional matters and the protection of IP rights. He has particular experience of the advertising, retail and publishing sectors.

Ian Ferguson recently arrived at the firm from Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman. He is noted for his expertise in IT matters pertaining to the financial services sector, including e-commerce and payment systems, while he also advises on numerous outsourcings and technology rights matters.

Ross McKean is noted for his data protection work, and clients consider him to be a "very pragmatic, thoughtful lawyer who gets to the point very quickly."

Slaughter and May has a good reputation for the sophistication of its work for international blue-chip corporates in outsourcing, business separation and procurement projects. The team has also advised on compliance with new cookie directives, issues relating to cloud computing, and the treatment of IT and IP in significant transactions and litigation. Clients include Carillion, Royal Mail and Telefonaktiebolaget L. M. Ericsson.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Rob Sumroy heads the firm's IT and outsourcing group and is highly rated by peers. One recent highlight for him was guiding Royal Mail through a revolutionary IT and outsourcing drive.

Allen & Overy provides a comprehensive IT service to key technology firms, as well as major financial institutions and giants in the digital media field. The team acts for both suppliers and purchasers of IT services, and advises on the treatment of IT in mergers, acquisitions and commercial transactions. It recently acted for Seagate Technology, a US designer and manufacturer of hard disk and storage applications, on its acquisition of Samsung's hard disk business.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Colleen Keck is an acclaimed IP and IT specialist who is praised by sources for her commercial acumen and skill at negotiating contracts. 

Jim Ford is described by one client as “technically and operationally excellent – he comes across as a constructive, firm and intelligent presence in the room.”

Dentons houses a strong IT team in its London office, handling matters concerning outsourcing, infrastructure projects, cloud computing and data centres. Its lawyers also have niche expertise in payment processing, mobile payment systems and greentech. The firm serves a broad client base including public sector clients such as the Ministry of Defence, and key private sector entities including Sainsbury’s, EMI and EDF Energy.

Subsequent to publication, SNR Denton LLP, Salans LLP and Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP merged to form Dentons in April 2013.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Catherine Bingham primarily advises public sector clients on infrastructure deals and information services matters, including recent work for the Ministry of Defence.

Clients find that Amanda Lewis "is quick - her turnaround time is excellent." She acts for a range of clients on IT agreements and disputes, recently advising Cheshire Police Authority on an ERP business transformation and services outsourcing.

Tatiana Kruse led Salans' IP, technology and communications practice prior to the merger. She is skilled in advising on most forms of IT and outsourcing contracts, data protection and the role of IP rights in commercial and corporate technology matters.

Norton Rose has an exceptionally strong financial services client base, which it advises on a range of matters including outsourcing contracts, M&A-related work, software licensing and IP. Sources appreciate the level of commitment which this group of lawyers shows: "The whole team worked like troopers to get the deal done," states one satisfied client. Key clients include HSBC, Ernst & Young and the Department of Health.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Mike Rebeiro advises a diverse clients list on a range of issues concerning outsourcing, software licensing and sector-specific matters in the financial services sector.

This firm advises a range of technology industry clients as well as major corporates on a range of IT procurement, outsourcing, IP and litigation matters. It has recently been advising Dell on regulatory issues concerning its cloud services, and assisting Everything Everywhere in connection with mobile payments technology. In other highlights the team has been advising Acision BV on patent and trade mark issues. Other key clients include HP, Motorola and Facebook.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Paul Gardner is expert in handling commercial and regulatory matters, especially in relation to digital media and entertainment, wherein he has assisted clients with e-commerce, virtual currencies, data privacy and online gaming matters.

Simon Rendell has particular expertise in telecoms and e-commerce matters, and he has been leading the firm's recent work for Everything Everywhere.

Angus Finnegan advises on a range of IT matters, including outsourcing and telecoms-related work. He leads the firm's relationship with Dell.

John Buyers, who has joined the firm from Stephenson Harwood, has a wealth of experience spanning outsourcing, software licensing and other IT contract matters. Clients say: "I think he is one of the best I have come across in this sector - he knows the law, but he also has an astute insight into operational matters."

This firm has a notable IT practice in its London office, and can also draw upon technology expertise in its US offices. Its clients use the firm to advise on issues surrounding systems procurement, data protection, cloud computing and the convergence between IT and traditional media forms. Clients find that the lawyers here are "very professional, easy to work with, and provide expert advice." Key clients include Open Text, Miniweb Technologies and Qatar Airlines.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Rafi Azim-Khan is a key contact.

RPC advises clients on contracts, regulatory issues and litigation across a wide spectrum of IT matters. Its client base consists of leading players in the technology industry, as well as companies in the retail and financial services sectors. Recently the firm assisted Saffron Digital with technology agreements with Samsung and Blockbuster concerning the delivery of video content to mobile phones and other smart devices. Key clients include Associated Newspapers, Betfair, RSA and Universal. Sources find that the firm is "very professional and intent on delivering solutions to their clients."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients state that Jeremy Drew is "super-bright and very incisive," adding that "he gets the human element of things, he's not purely a technically lawyer, he works phenomenally hard." Drew heads the practice and frequently advises clients on both contentious and non-contentious IT matters, including outsourcings.

Clients find that the lawyers here are "very good at building up the client relationship and trying to understand what our needs are, as well as giving us tailor-made training." The firm advises a number of clients in the field of mobile telephony and smart devices, most recently acting for Samsung on its ongoing IP disputes with Apple, as well as advising HTC on legal issues surrounding new mobile applications and cloud-based services. In other work highlights the firm has represented Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in its procurement of new radiology systems and services.

KEY INDIVIDUALS James Cotter is expert in handling outsourcing, e-commerce and information law matters. He also handles a range of work for public sector clients, as exemplified by his recent involvement in the firm's work for Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust.

Taylor Wessing offers a comprehensive, standalone IT law offering to SMEs and start-ups in the technology sector, as well as representing established, international corporations and blue-chip companies. The team handles work for the buyers and sellers of software services, and it is at the forefront of legal advice relating to the convergence of e-commerce, digital media and mobile telephony. Clients include Associated Newspapers, Reed Elsevier, Spotify and Visa.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Christopher Rees has all but unrivalled experience in the IT and technology world, having advised on such issues for more than 30 years. He is well versed in outsourcing and IT system supply agreements, as well as transactions and agreements which allow for overseas technology companies to expand in Europe.

Glyn Morgan is head of Taylor Wessing's IT and telecoms group and has more than 20 years of experience advising clients on myriad technology and outsourcing issues. He acts for some of the largest and most dynamic technology companies in the world.

Christopher Jeffery has a wealth of experience advising US technology companies, often based on the West Coast, on their European growth strategies. He has an admirably broad practice, covering most licensing, distribution, internet and data protection issues.

Mark Owen joined the firm from Harbottle & Lewis LLP in 2013. He is an experienced and effective technology specialist, and is highly adept at IP, e-commerce, outsourcing and TMT projects. He is a seasoned litigator as well as a commercial adviser.   

This firm is a dynamic boutique dedicated entirely to non-contentious IT, outsourcing and internet-related law. The firm is best known for its sterling work advising suppliers of IT systems on drafting and negotiating service contracts. The firm is also attracting instructions from purchaser-side companies, including major financial institutions and insurers. Clients include Capgemini UK, HP Enterprise Services and Old Mutual Asset Managers.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jeremy Newton is described by sources as “technically brilliant�� and “personable.” He is a leading expert on the law surrounding IT contracts and outsourcing. His background as an in-house lawyer for Sun Microsystems and his devotion to IT law make him a much sought after adviser.

Gavin Wakefield is renowned for his skill at drafting and negotiating IT and outsourcing contracts for large and sophisticated projects. According to sources he has a “great negotiating style” which is “unassuming and persuasive”.

Travers Smith's IT practice receives instructions from a number of key retailers, as well as other corporate entities, and the firm has also rapidly expanded its portfolio of technology sector clients. It advises clients on a range of matters including procurement, the implementation of new systems, e-commerce, and major disputes. Key clients include Pret A Manger, STA Travel and Shazam.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of IT Dan Reavill has been advising a number of major clients, including Brewin Dolphin and London Mining, on the procurement of IT systems. He is also expert in the handling of contentious IT matters, which has recently included the representation of Inoapps in a mediation with Claranet. Sources say that "when he speaks people tend to listen. He speaks common sense and doesn't get bogged down in technical language."

Wragge & Co is well placed to advise both suppliers and purchasers on a range of major outsourcings and other IT projects. Sources say that this firm is "outstanding on contentious IT and IP matters, and has a very capable commercial and corporate team. They have all the tools needed to deliver results to their clients."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Key partner Peter Hall's expertise extends to procurement, outsourcing, data protection and e-commerce matters.

Mark Henley has particular experience of issues surrounding open source software, as well as broader expertise in IT procurement.

Addleshaw Goddard houses a team of IT specialists which focuses primarily upon the representation of purchasers of IT services in the public sector, as well as major companies in the manufacturing, retail and financial services industries. It handles outsourcing agreements, and has particular expertise in payment processing and mobile payment solutions. Key clients include Barclays Bank, Sainsbury's and Tiscali.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Michael Lowry is the key contact.

The team at Ashurst concentrates on high-value, sophisticated transactions, outsourcing deals, M&A and related litigation. The team receives instructions from some of the world's most dynamic computing and technology organisations, as well as purchasers of IT supplies and services from across the industrial landscape. Clients include Barclays, Intel, JPMorgan and Thomson Reuters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mark Lubbock is a technology specialist with years of experience advising on commercial and transactional IT matters. He has taken the lead on instructions by Autonomy and Torex.

Christopher Bates is an up-and-coming partner at the firm. He is noted for his expertise in IT outsourcing and procurement matters, and he leads the firm's relationships with Thomson Reuters and Equitable Life.

The IT team at CMS is highly regarded for its advice to purchasers and suppliers on outsourcing and business separation contracts, including multinational corporations and financial institutions. The team also has an enviable client roster of regulated utility companies on its books, which it advises on all of their IT needs. One recent highlight has been the firm's defence of supplier Avaloq Evolution against claims of alleged breach of contract, breach of copyright and breach of confidence, brought by a leading bank.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Described as “bright” and “switched-on” by sources, John Armstrong heads the department and is concerned mainly with non-contentious and contractual matters.

The team at Eversheds combines technical savvy and enthusiasm with a group of highly experienced and accomplished partners. Clients speak highly of the “attentive and proactive” service they have received. The team handles a high volume of outsourcing and business separation deals, often with an international aspect, as well as receiving other instructions from leading corporates and financial institutions. Clients include Anglo American, RBS and Risk Integrated.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Simon Gamlin is head of department.

Clients find that the IT group at Fladgate provides “outstanding commercial advice,” and that the lawyers' “wealth of experience has paid dividends.” The team acts for buyers and suppliers of IT services, and handles the full range of related contract, commercial and transactional work. Key areas of expertise include cloud computing and data protection. Clients include Cambridge Assessment, Jubilee Managing Agency and Sovereign Business Integration.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Eddie Powell is a key contact.

This firm's IT practice is centred upon high-profile M&A deals, disputes and outsourcing agreements for an illustrious client base of major corporates, as well as providers. Recent highlights include advising Air China on complex multi-jurisdictional work concerning the expansion of its online ticket selling business into Nordic countries. Other key clients include Barclays Bank, Sellafield and JTI.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Richard Lister is recognised for his expert handling of IT matters, including transactional work and outsourcing contracts.

Sources note that Avril Martindale is "very good at bridging IT and IP." Her workload also encompasses outsourcing and data protection issues.

This compact but efficient technology team handles some of the most sophisticated outsourcing, IP and TMT-related problems and transactions. The firm is a leader in the arts, entertainment and media space, and its lawyers excel in matters concerning digital technology, e-commerce and computer and online gaming, as well as providing contracts and contentious advice for clients across the breadth of the business world.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mark Phillips is a corporate lawyer and joint head of the e-commerce, technology and interactive entertainment group. He has a keen interest in the latest developments in digital media and business technology.

Mayer Brown frequently advises on IT matters for clients in the financial services and pensions industries, and much of its work is international in nature. Its expertise spans outsourcing, data protection and IP, amongst other matters. Sources say that this team "communicates so well - you know when you will get a response and they always deliver within deadlines." Key clients include London Metal Exchange, Punter Southall and GE Capital.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mark Prinsley heads the firm's London IP/IT department. Acting for EMI Music, he has recently concluded an outsourcing agreement with HCL. Clients are impressed with his "very pragmatic, sound business advice," as well as his provision of "creative input to shape business deals, rather than merely executing our instructions."

The team at Nabarro operates at the interface between IT and IP, and remains up to date with all manner of technical and data protection issues. The team is familiar with the challenges facing private sector companies and it also serves a number of public sector clients. One key area of expansion is the firm's offering to financial services companies, which includes data protection matters and audits. The firm counts Atos, IBM, Oracle and Twitter amongst its clients.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Belinda Doshi is a partner in the firm's intellectual property and information technology group.

Since its formation in January 2011, this niche technology firm has established a formidable reputation in the market for its handling of a range of outsourcing work, as well as licensing, data centre work and software agreements. Recent highlights have included advising BSkyB on its data centre hosting programme, and representing Sapient in connection with a framework agreement to provide IT solutions to a leading energy company. Other key clients include Deutsche Bank, Tesco and Amadeus.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice joint-head Alexander Hamilton has recently advised the LSE on negotiating contracts for its software as a Services UnaVista product. He is also noted for his expertise in handling major outsourcing projects.

David Skinner is another joint-head of practice. He has strong experience of advising financial sector clients on IT matters.

Andrew Giverin "provides consistently excellent and pragmatic legal and commercial support to our business in a cost-effective way," according to satisfied clients. He recently led the firm's work for BSkyB.

Anna Cook recently joined the firm from Wedlake Bell. She brings with her notable expertise in IT disputes, and market sources acclaim her arrival as a very positive development for radiant.law.

SJ Berwin's IT team advises clients on range of matters including software development and licensing, e-commerce and complex financial sector technology. Key clients include 1-Logic, ADS Securities and Ladbrokes.

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Andrew Shindler is accomplished in handling complex technology contracts for the firm's major clients. Sources say: "He is exceptionally good - hands-on, quick thinking, commercial, very robust when needed and good on the law. I'm always glad that he’s on my side."

This firm handles a range of outsourcing and development agreements, as well as software licensing and social media agreements. Recent work highlights have included assisting with the creation of an online portal for road traffic accident claims, including outsourcing agreements, as well as advising Micro Focus International on its new software licence verification programme. Other key clients include Capita, KPMG and The Cloud Networks.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jonathan Kirsop is noted for his data protection expertise, although he has also been involved in outsourcing projects of late.

White & Case has been particularly well known for its financial services client base on IT matters. However, the team is also a trusted adviser to a number of technology firms of international standing. It acts for both suppliers and purchasers of IT services and products on what are invariably high-value, cross-border deals and disputes. Key clients include DZ Bank, Facebook and Hilton Worldwide.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Ashley Winton specialises in outsourcing, IT, IP and competition law relating to data transfer, e-commerce and related technology matters. He takes a keen interest in European policy and directives relating to IT.

Clifford Chance's IT team handles all manner of IT and outsourcing matters for blue-chip global corporations and technology companies. The team is particularly noted for its experience in handling IT services and issues in relation to big-ticket corporate transactions.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andre Duminy is a key contact with much experience in outsourcing and business separation transactions.

Dundas & Wilson's IT team is consistently praised by some of the biggest names in financial services, energy and utilities for its command of the legal and commercial nuances of outsourcing and technology, media, and telecoms. Clients include BAE Systems, Everything Everywhere, Royal Bank of Scotland and Scottish & Southern Energy.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Douglas Land is a key contact.

This niche technology firm has established a formidable reputation in the IT market for its handling of acquisitions, contracts and disputes for software, telecoms and data companies. Key clients include EurotaxGlass’s, Rufus Leonard and NETbuilder.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Justin Ellis heads the technology group here. He is noted for his specialist expertise, and clients appreciate that he is "very good at explaining things, and he stands up for us as clients."

K&L Gates is noted for its strong international capabilities in the technology sector, and it advises clients on a range of IT matters.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jeremy Landau is a key contact.

Lawrence Graham enters the rankings this year in recognition of its recent dynamism in expanding and honing its IT offering. It handles outsourcing and IT matters for clients operating in the energy and utilities, insurance, retail and technology sectors. The team also continues to capitalise on the firm's already substantial Indian client base. Clients include McDonald's UK, Patni Computer Systems and Wipro.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jonathan Riley is a key contact.

Macfarlanes' IT practice concentrates mainly on outsourcing projects for businesses and institutional clients in the financial services sphere. The team takes on complicated, often bespoke, projects, and also assists with a range of matters and services in adjacent areas of technology and commercial law. Its clients tend to be medium to large companies with an entrepreneurial bent, as well as larger institutions, and the team leans towards the licensee rather than licensor side.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients say Rupert Casey is “very calm and considered and seems to have a very broad range of experience with different clients and sectors.” He has a broad practice but is concerned primarily with helping clients get the best from their service contracts.

Reed Smith has a sophisticated and integrated technology offering which extends to cloud computing, business process outsourcing, data protection, e-commerce, licence agreements and advice to early growth-stage technology companies. Clients attest to the lawyers' “very strong commercial acumen.” The group acts for BNY Mellon, Siemens and Sony Network Entertainment.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Cynthia O'Donoghue is co-head of the firm's data privacy, security and management group. She attracts praise from clients for her “very thoughtful analysis” of IT problems, and her ability to “address angles we hadn't thought of.”

Sakil Suleman is an up-and-coming partner in this firm's IT group. He has extensive expertise in IT outsourcing and e-commerce matters.

This firm primarily advises corporate clients in the insurance, media, retail and leisure sectors on IT procurement and outsourcing agreements. Key clients include WPP Group, Chartis and Caesars Entertainment Corporation.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Garfield Smith is a key contact here.

Wedlake Bell handles both contentious and non-contentious IT matters for major clients including Convergys, Diageo and Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi. Recent highlights include advising Borough IT in a breach of contract claim against the British Pest Control Association.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mike Gardner heads the IT team here.