Working to the ‘very highest standards across the board’, the team at Carter-Ruck assists high-profile clients facing the publication of untrue or intrusive allegations in traditional media, TV, radio, and social media platforms. The team supports a number of political figures, celebrities, and multinational companies, working closely with clients’ in-house PR teams to advise them on the full range of political rights regarding defamation and privacy. ‘Master strategist’ Nigel Tait heads up the practice with a formidable record of securing front page apologies by major newspapers and injunctions on defamatory publications. Specialist media litigator Adam Tudor regularly handles complex pre-publication matters alongside senior associate Helena Shipman, while Persephone Bridgman Baker advises clients on the misuse of private information and harassment. Rebecca Toman expertly handles both claimant and defendant work for UHNWIs and HNWIs, and commercial litigator Claire Gill has considerable expertise with GDPR and the Right to be Forgotten. Senior associates Mathilde Groppo and Dominic Garner are also recommended.

Harbottle & Lewis LLP's 'top tier' practice advises clients on all aspects of reputation management including defamation, privacy, breach of confidence, data protection, and information law. The firm represents numerous UHNWIs and public figures seeking to protect their reputation and privacy on a global level. Practice co-head Gerrard Tyrrell draws on over 35 years' experience and a 'deep understanding of the media' to provide bespoke advice to senior members of the royal family, as well as foreign royalty and heads of state across multiple jurisdictions. Joint team lead John Kelly works with individuals across the entertainment and sports sectors, with a particular focus on current affairs TV programmes. Senior associates Louise Prince and Amy Bradbury are also recommended for their advisory services on privacy and data protection issues in relation to matters of reputation.

Described by clients as the ‘leading defendant media litigation practice in London', RPC's reputation management team includes specialists in defamation, privacy, and editorial advisory services. The firm acts for clients across all media sectors, from national newspapers to online influencers, as well as all of the primary media liability insurers. Practice head Keith Mathieson is notable for his extensive expertise advising publications on media content, and his focus on defending the freedom of expression in media. 'An asset to any case', Rupert Cowper-Coles regularly handles complex data disputes stemming from online publications alongside Alex Vakil who manages the Mirror Newspapers hacking litigation. Recently promoted partner Alex Wilson assists with both pre-publication injunctions and post-publication issues, working with a range of media publishers including major national and local newspapers.

The 'fantastic team of lawyers' at Schillings specialise in defamation and privacy litigation for high profile clients in the entertainment, technology, and finance sectors. Practice head Jenny Afia has considerable experience handling complex libel cases and led the Duchess of Sussex's case in the Court of Appeal in November 2021. The 'brilliant' Joelle Rich has expertise assisting private clients weather the storm of having their reputation damaged publicly, while Rachel Atkins is notable for her ability to secure front page apologies and leading the successful defamation claim for Sir James Dyson. Magnus Boyd handles breaches of confidence, copyright, and data protection cases, and discreet operator Rod Christie-Miller assists HNW families looking to remain under the radar. Expert commercial litigator Gillian Duffy regularly takes on major cross-jurisdictional cases and Ben Hobbs covers a range of reputation management issues including smear or hostile campaigns, cyber-attacks, and harassment.

As 'one of the best reputation management teams in the UK', Simons Muirhead Burton act for defendant publishers and broadcasters, including some of Europe's largest television production houses. Along with advising big names such as The Sun and The Mirror, the practice is also notable for its support for UK and US-based NGOs, journalist bodies, and trade unions. Practice head Jeffrey Smele specialises in criminal media law, regularly conducting internal investigations and representing journalists in response to police requests for material. Louis Charalambous has 'vast experience' assisting major broadcasters and national newspapers with complex emergency injunction applications, while managing partner and head of dispute resolution Razi Mireskandari leads on high-profile media litigation cases. Data protection expert and forensic solicitor Stephen Shotnes carries out pre-publication clearance work, and publishing disputes specialist Martin Soames draws on his experience as a commissioning editor to assist clients with highly contentious publications. Senior associate Emma Linch is also recommended for her work on contentious data protection media issues.

Addleshaw Goddard's specialised reputation and information protection practice provides a comprehensive service to household names and multinational corporations in the technology, transport, and retail sectors, as well as high-profile and HNW individuals in the UK. Practice head David Engel has considerable experience advising clients on contentious data protection issues, the right to be forgotten, and defamation crisis management. Engel is supported by dispute resolution associate Neil O’Sullivan, who specialises in the full range of defamation, privacy, and intellectual property disputes. O'Sullivan has additional experience obtaining injunctions in the High Court to protect confidential information, as well as handling the removal of content from online platforms.

Bindmans LLP provides expert advice on complex libel, privacy, data protection, and copyright disputes to both claimants and defendants. The practice has a growing specialism in reputation and media management for whistleblowers in collaboration with the firm's employment and crime departments. Practice head Tamsin Allen regularly defends publishers, NGOs, and nationally recognised journalists, having acted on numerous ground-breaking cases in the Supreme Court and European Court of Human Rights. Criminal lawyer Kate Goold has extensive experience dealing with international and politically sensitive reputational crises arising in response to criminal proceedings against high-profile individuals. Data protection and cybersecurity barrister Monika Sobiecki has experience handling reputational fall-out from high-profile cyber incidents and content takedown proceedings.

The team at CMS advises a range of high-profile clients in the energy, finance, and media sectors, as well as numerous HNW individuals. Geraldine Proudler heads up the practice with a wealth of experience defending responsible journalism, handling reputation protection for chief executives and their leading companies, and advising PR professionals on their rights. Data protection expert Dan Tench regularly acts on large defamation and privacy cases with the support of Tamsin Blow who advises media organisations on a range of complex contentious issues relating to publication and data management.

Farrer & Co's reputation management team has a strong record of providing strategic planning, prevention, and reactive advice in response to complex reputational situations and crises. The team acts for high-profile clients in the entertainment and creative industries, as well as the education and business spaces. With specialist expertise in the sports sector, practice head Julian Pike assists a broad range clients with pre-publication issues, the right to be forgotten, and broader cyber protection. Tom Rudkin handles defamation and libel claims for HNWIs, multinational corporations, and non-profit organisations, with a focus on online reputational issues. Associate Alicia Mendonca-Richards is also recommended.

Mishcon de Reya LLP's 'premier reputation management team' specialises in crisis management and reputation protection, working with the firm's broad network of practitioners to provide a discreet service. Acting for both claimants and defendants, the practice advises international UHNWIs, multinational businesses, and media production companies. Media litigator Emma Woollcott leads the practice with particular expertise handling crisis situations and hostile media campaigns, particularly against minority women. Managing partner James Libson has substantial experience acting for a variety of high-profile clients and charities, and Alexandra Whiston-Dew expertly deals with reputational crises and complex multijurisdictional disputes. Michael Frost is also recommended for his 'forensic attention to detail.'

Payne Hicks Beach LLP provides a broad reputation management and privacy protection offering to their wide-ranging client base of public figures in entertainment and politics, entrepreneurs, and large corporates. Dominic Crossley has substantive experience handling reputational crises and high-profile defamation cases, while 'enormously experienced litigator' Hanna Basha has specialises in managing complex pre-publication and pre-broadcast issues. Crossley and Basha jointly lead the team with data protection and online privacy law expert Andrew Willan. Lucas Moore continues to support the team on harassment and defamation cases in the financial sector, and senior associate Nick Grant deals with breach of confidence and data protection matters.

The 'fantastic' reputation management practice at Simkins LLP specialises in pre-broadcast and pre-publication work, as well as takedowns, corrections, and apologies post-publication. Team lead and 'doyen of the media law world' Gideon Benaim represents leading businesses and individuals across the tech, food, and entertainment sectors, advising on a wide range of reputation matters. Jon Oakley specialises in crisis management and reputation protection, regularly acting for high-profile clients in emergency situations, while Tom Iverson takes on data protection, harassment, and breach of confidence matters across multiple jurisdictions. 'High-quality associates' Jessica Welch and Thomas Moore are also recommended.

Wiggin LLP's 'top media defendant team' provides a specialist service to some of the world's biggest publishing houses and media production companies. Experienced litigator Caroline Kean heads up the practice and regularly undertakes complex cross-jurisdictional libel matters. Matthew Dando advises clients across the media, tech, and sports sectors, and provides trusted counsel to Associated Newspapers. Dual qualified in New York, senior associate Adelaide Scardino Lopez represents clients in defamation, data protection, and copyright disputes, while Elizabeth Wiggin has experience advising clients both pre-action and before the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.

Withers LLP's broad media and reputation practice advises a range of international clients including large corporates, heads of state and politicians, NGOs, and high-profile individuals in the media sector. Practice co-head and 'outstanding' practitioner Amber Melville-Brown is dual qualified in New York, making her a go-to lawyer for complex cross-jurisdictional defamation and reputation matters. Joint team lead Jo Sanders has considerable expertise dealing with reputation crises and major data breaches, particularly focusing on clients who tend to avoid publicity such as UHNWIs. Senior associate Andrew Fremlin-Key is also recommended for his specialisms in contentious tax litigation and multi-jurisdictional investigations, including Unexplained Wealth Orders.

Niche media and reputation protection firm ACK Media Law LLP specialises in a range of litigation, defamation advice, pre-publication clearance, post-publication analysis of media content, and data protection advisory services. 'Outstanding media lawyer' and practice co-head Susan Aslan has a wealth of experience in media litigation, regularly advising major national broadcasters, production companies, newspapers, and publishers. Joint team lead Sue Charles helps numerous high-profile clients navigate long-term and complex legal situations, such as mass copyright infringement claims.

Advising both claimants and defendants, Archerfield Partners LLP‘s reputation management practice services a broad client base of publishing houses, Hollywood actors, and international businesses. Consultant Mark Bateman heads up the practice with specialisms in defamation, brand protection, and harassment issues. Matthew Dowd represents corporate clients and numerous HNW individuals who have found themselves in the public eye, while Kevin Bays draws on over 40 years’ experience as a commercial litigator when taking on significant international cases.

Bates Wells advises a wide-ranging client base on the full spectrum of reputation management law including data protection, harassment, and defamation on social media. Practice head Rupert Earle regularly acts on groundbreaking cases for institutions of national significance, household name media companies, and high-profile individuals. Senior associate Alex de Jongh is an experienced commercial litigator and has particular expertise in advising campaigning groups on sensitive defamation issues.

Brett Wilson LLP's reputation management practice is 'exceptional in every regard,' offering expert advice on defamation, data protection, harassment, and a broad range of privacy issues. Managing partner Iain Wilson leads the team, regularly acting for high-profile claimants such as politicians, celebrities, and athletes. Solicitor advocate Max Campbell has extensive litigation experience, successfully defending numerous complex libel claims. The team was further bolstered by the the return of specialist media litigator Tom Double from Clyde & Co in 2021.

The ‘outstanding’ team at Bristows LLP is notable for providing extensive reputation advisory services to high-profile tech and media clients. Practice head Alex Keenlyside has a wealth of media and data protection litigation experience, regularly acting for the largest players in the tech space including Google and Meta. Specialist Mark Watts leads the firm’s data protection team and handles a range of data and privacy matters for numerous multinational traditional media publishers. Associate Victoria Baron is also recommended for her experience advising on intermediary liability, defamation, misuse of private information, and data protection.

Specialist media lawyer Duncan Lamont leads the defamation and reputation management practice at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP which acts for clients in the ongoing phone hacking litigation against News Group Newspapers and Reach plc, as well as providing a broader libel and data protection services to major media production companies and businesses. Lamont is supported by associates Gabrielle Shovlin, who has expertise advising large corporations on the misuse of private information as, and Hannah Gornall, who works with both private individuals and commercial entities.

Clintons advises clients across the full range of privacy and reputation management issues 'with fantastic expertise and strength in depth.’ The practice is headed up by Roddy Chisholm Batten, and has specialist expertise in defamation, malicious falsehood, misuse of private information, breach of confidence, data protection, and protection from harassment matters. Karim Bouzidi advises high-profile clients in the sports sector, and associates Hayley Dilks and Caroline Hrabi are recommended for their support on the firm's growing phone-hacking practice.

The 'top-quality team' at Hamlins LLP is led by media specialist Christopher Hutchings and provides a comprehensive reputation management service, advising a broad client base on defamation, pre-publication libel, and privacy law. Callum Galbraith has considerable expertise resolving complex pre-publication disputes, and manages the firm's position as lead solicitor in the phone hacking litigation against News Group Newspapers. Privacy specialist Alex Cochrane is also recommended for handling claims of misuse of private information arising out of the broadcast of highly intrusive fly-on-the-wall documentaries.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP‘s multidisciplinary team tackles a range of defamation and reputational issues including the unlawful disclosure of confidential information, media harassment, and regulatory investigations. Practice head Alan Watts has considerable expertise advising on pre-publication regarding sensitive issues, Neil Blake has experience advising high-profile clients in active proceedings and reputation crises. Senior associates Christopher Cox and Angela Liu are also recommended.

Howard Kennedy LLP's media and reputation management litigation team specialises in privacy and harassment matters, data protection, blackmail, and lawfare. The practice is led by the 'extremely experienced' and high-profile Mark Stephens CBE who works with an array of corporations, media production companies, and high-profile individuals, and is notable for providing consultations regarding libel reform to both policy makers and media companies. Stephens is supported by Elizabeth Morley  who is particularly skilled at providing pre-publication advice and acting for a range of defendants including NGOs and charities

Kingsley Napley LLP's 'highly strategic and discreet' reputation management and media litigation practice has a key focus on representing private HNW individuals and multi-national corporations. Practice head Charlotte Harris primarily acts for claimants, most notably handling Rebekah Vardy's defamation claim against Collen Rooney. Helen Morris provides pre-publication advice to HNW individuals and supports them with upholding their privacy particularly in relation to harassment, revenge porn, and blackmail. Sue Thackeray has considerable expertise in crisis management for high-profile sports stars, and associate Siân Akerman handles anti-harassment and privacy injunctions.

Lee & Thompson LLP acts for a diverse mix of well-known names including Hollywood actors, platinum-selling musicians, reality TV stars, and sports personalities. Practice co-head Mike Brookes provides extensive pre-publication advice, and primarily supports defendants including two leading national broadcasters. Joint team lead Leo Dawkins has considerable media litigation and data protection experience, enabling him to provide a broad service to high-profile celebrities seeking to protect their privacy from the tabloids, while libel expert Mark Stafford handles media clearance work for a number of the UK's top production companies.

Lewis Silkin‘s reputation management practice was recently strengthened by the firm’s merger with Northern Ireland’s Forde Campbell in 2021, broadening the team’s established expertise. The practice provides a cross departmental service to a range of media companies, film studios, and HNW individuals. Specialist Adam Glass heads up the practice, drawing on a wealth of knowledge to lead on numerous landmark cases. Joint managing partner Giles Crown specialises in defamation, and Mathew Forde handles complex reputational issues stemming from regulatory and data breaches. The team is supported by highly experienced associates Lucinda Murphy and Oliver Fairhurst.

Osborne Clarke LLP's diverse reputation management practice is regularly instructed by leading companies in the tech space, HNW individuals, and well known multinational corporations. Team lead Ashley Hurst is a data privacy and cybersecurity expert who provides a comprehensive reputation management service to leading clients in the tech and media sectors. Hurst is supported by Bristol-based Charlie Wedin, a privacy specialist with a particular focus on data security crises. Associate Henry Fox is also recommended for his expertise in reputation and defamation law.

The reputation management and privacy practice at Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP supports both claimants and defendants with libel claims, harassment, and data protection breaches. Head of litigation Clare Arthurs and reputation specialist Jeremy Clarke-Williams co-lead the team, having acted on numerous high-profile libel cases and matrimonial disputes. Adele Ashton has over 20 years’ experience handling complex malicious falsehood and libel claims against major national news outlets, and is leading a number of large data breach claims. The team is supported by associate Eva McHale, who is also recommended.

Pinsent Masons LLP's data privacy and media disputes practice primarily acts for large traditional media clients, well-known tech giants, and media liability insurers. David Barker heads up the practice and regularly acts for Google on a number of defamation, data protection, and privacy issues, most recently successfully defending the client in the Supreme Court. Barker is supported by associates Caroline Henzell and Toby Coughlin who have considerable experience with misuse of private information claims, data breaches, and the right to be forgotten.

Taylor Wessing LLP's cross-departmental practice has expertise in a range of reputation management matters including defamation, online harassment, unlawful data processing, and privacy in divorce proceedings. Highly experienced media litigator Niri Shanmuganathan leads the team, and advises clients across the publishing, sport, and film sectors. Richard Viegas provides defamation and data protection advisory services to UHNWIs and market leading corporates, while reputation management specialist and senior counsel Michael Yates handles a range of contentious information and media law issues.

The specialist reputation management practice at Vardags has considerable expertise in defamation, harassment, privacy, and blackmail, as well as assisting clients with crisis management. Practice head Alexandra McCready advises a number of private family offices, prominent individuals, and international companies on pre and post publication issues of libel. Additionally, McCready has experience dealing with online threats and regularly secures the removal of sensitive or confidential content.

Brabners LLP acts for a broad range of high-profile businesses and individuals across the sport and media sectors. Drawing on over 20 years' experience, Paul Lunt regularly handles complex defamation and privacy claims and has recently been in the public eye, leading Coleen Rooney's defence against libel proceedings brought by Rebekah Vardy. Colin Bell advises clients on contractual matters, such as broadcasting agreements, and trademark infringement, while director Helen Otty is a litigator particularly skilled at privacy and harassment claims.

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP acts for both corporate clients and private individuals seeking to maintain and protect their reputations in the public eye. The practice is jointly led by Graham Shear and Joby Davies, and regularly advises clients on ESG and greenwashing, data protection, and media strategy. Shear and Davies are supported by Sarah McAtominey, who has a particular focus on advising HNW individuals and institutions.

Russells Solicitors notably acts for well-known celebrity claimants seeking advice on libel, privacy, data protection, and harassment in the media. Practice head Steven Tregear specialises in media litigation and represents a range of major record companies, artists, and talent managers. 'Go-to claimant lawyer' John Reid covers a range of privacy disputes assists clients with litigation avoidance strategy. Senior associates Dan Hoyle and Jay Joshi support the team on phone hacking litigation.

Burges Salmon LLP‘s reputation management practice is notable for advising major government bodies, high-profile corporates, and public figures on both litigation prevention and dispute resolution. Joint team lead Jeremy Dickerson has extensive expertise supporting clients with brand protection, reputation issues, and online and offline defamation. Practice co-head Richard Binns has a particular focus on reputation issues with a digital element, including harassment and defamation on social media.

The bench of advisors at Keystone Law handle matters concerning defamation, privacy, misuse of confidential information, and reputation management for claimants and defendants across a range of sectors. Gerard Cukier has experience advising religious organisations facing sensitive and defamatory claims regarding possible cult involvement, and has expertise in filing claims for removal of defamatory material from media channels. Employment lawyer Sofia Syed supports HNW families and individuals, with a particular focus on reputational issues arising in light of contentious termination.

Kobre & Kim LLP represents numerous UHNW individuals facing complex reputational issues, including defamatory publications and public investigations. Practice co-head and barrister Robin Rathmell is dual qualified in Washington DC, regularly providing reputational management and crisis communication services to high-profile individuals experiencing international litigation involving allegations of fraud, money laundering, and other forms of misconduct. Joint practice head Polly Wilkins has considerable experience working with private family offices and their trusted advisers to formulate holistic strategies to preserve reputation and mitigate privacy risks.

With a focus on advising clients in the sports sector, McCormicks offers a broad range of reputation management services including defamation and privacy protection. Practice head Philip Edmondson has expertise advising clients on sensitive defamatory publications, including allegations of misconduct and breach of regulations. Peter McCormick OBE has a wealth of experience working with leading sports organisations, and leads the practice in advising the Premier League on all potential reputational issues.

Michelmores LLP acts for clients across the finance, education, and charity sectors, often working in collaboration with the wider firm's other departments. Practice head Jayne Clemens has a particular focus on defamation, and regularly secures the removal of libellous material from websites and social media. Senior associate Charlotte Bolton is also recommended for her specialisms in brand protection and international reputation management.

Mills & Reeve LLP handles a range of defamation, privacy, and media dispute work, with a focus on providing a discreet service in crisis situations. Joint team lead Richard Dawson-Gerrard, who is based in Manchester, specialises in crisis management, and has expertise planning and coordinated publicity tactics with external professionals. He jointly leads the practice with principal associate Rachael Somerset, who represents a number of celebrities and athletes, and has a wealth of experience implementing preventative strategies to mitigate reputational harm. Senior associate Ben Reeves is also based in Manchester and is recommended for his work with high-net-worth individuals, corporates and NHS bodies.

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP's reputation management practice is jointly led by senior partner Richard East and Paul Baker, who joined the firm from Simmons & Simmons in 2021. The firm issues and defends complex defamation and malicious falsehood claims for clients in the finance and technology sectors. East and Baker are supported by Gregory Pantlin who specialises in multi-jurisdictional commercial dispute resolution, advising on libel and privacy issues in the media space.

Reed Smith LLP's reputation management practice is jointly led by Gregor Pryor and Steve Sessa, acting for both claimants and defendants on pre-publication clearance matters, defamation, and privacy. Michael Skrein acts for clients both nationally and internationally, and is described by one client as the 'doyen of the media law world.' Carolyn Pepper is also recommended for her work in the publishing, investigative journalism, and financial services sectors.

Squire Patton Boggs provides a cross-departmental reputation management practice which has libel, defamation, and privacy expertise. Practice head director Peter Lees acts for a range of well-known individuals and corporate clients with a particular focus on environmental issues and internal governance. Lees is supported by senior associate Mariyam Harunah, IP specialist Carlton Daniel  and litigator Stephen Sampson.