This firm is best known for its work in the media sector;
however, the team's expertise also extends to technology, retail
and real estate work, thus ensuring the firm receives a constant
stream of high-level engagements. One interviewee
characterises the team as being "highly active, with
first-rate people and first-rate work." Their impressive
client roster includes BBC Worldwide, Sony Television
Pictures, Warner Bros. and NVIDIA. Olswang was recently engaged in
Project Vancouver on behalf of BBC Worldwide in a
complex £115 million disposal of specific titles and licences
to an SPV, which drew together Olswang's corporate and commercial
resources.
KEY INDIVIDUALS
Simon Morgan played a crucial role in advising BBC
Worldwide on Project Vancouver. He has been described as
both"excellent"and"good to deal with."
A "first-rate lawyer,"
Stephen Hermer has been praised by clients for providing a good
service and being"very responsive."Recent highlights include
representing NICE Systems in relation to a
cross-border acquisition.
– Chambers and Partners 2013
Olswang receives wide acclaim for the breadth, depth and
headcount of its media practice. It is known especially for its
impressively strong film and TV capabilities, but also
advises seamlessly across other areas such as digital media,
advertising and music, as well as publishing. Sources agree
that lawyers here show great commercial awareness by
being "sensitive to our financial needs,"as well as a
willingness to"think outside the box in suggesting things
not expected" and"superb customer service." The team
advised ITV Networks on its Copyright Tribunal dispute with the PRS
and MCPS, and also acted for YouView on the commercial and
regulatory considerations surrounding the establishment of a new
digital TV platform.
KEY INDIVIDUALS
Jacqueline Hurt heads up the firm's international media
practice and exhibits a keen understanding of film and TV
work in particular."She knows the industry well and is very
thorough in her analysis,"according to sources. She recently
advised Anton Capital Entertainment on a slate financing agreement
with StudioCanal.
Selina Potter is"deft at guiding complex broadcast
transactions to conclusion,"according to sources. Her highlights
include advising BBC Worldwide on the sale of BBC Magazines to
Exponent.
John Enser's highlights include advising ITV on a Copyright
Tribunal royalties case involving the PRS and MCPS. Sources
describe him as a keen participant in digital media matters, noting
his confident negotiation style.
David Zeffman is frequently instructed in matters
involving sports, although his wider media practice has
also seen him advising on digital rights agreements with
studios and independent producers of late. Sources highlight his
switched-on and engaging negotiation style, and praise the
fantastic work he conducts for clients.
Steven Corney is a media litigator with a distinct profile
in the music arena. Clients find him "practical
and hands-on," adding that "he goes the extra mile"for
clients. He advised a group of ITV companies in a Copyright
Tribunal case involving the PRS and MCPS.
Clive Gringras is a reliable choice of solicitor
for"excellent commercial advice" and technical knowledge, according
to delighted clients. He serves as head of the firm's technology
practice and enjoys an ever-growing profile in this area.
Joel Barry leads the firm's trade mark practice,
frequently handling work that crosses over into the media
sector, especially issues affecting advertising clients.
Stephen Hermer wins plaudits for his calm manner during
negotiations on television contracts and agreements:"He never
panics and he gets you to where you want to be," said one
source. Hermer acted for the shareholders of video
distribution company goviral on its sale to
AOL for USD96.7 million.
Senior partner
Mark Devereux enjoys a great reputation for his film
and TV work, attracting praise as an "extremely
effective" and"straightforward"person to deal with. He is lead
adviser to Cameron Mackintosh on a film adaptation of 'Les
Misérables'.
Victoria Gaskell is considered "a joy to work
with - she is calm under pressure and gets the job
done," sources enthuse. She assisted with the sale of BBC
Magazines.
– Chambers and Partners 2013
Simon Morgan of Olswang played a crucial role in advising BBC
Worldwide on Project Vancouver. He has been described as both
"excellent" and "good to deal with."
Also of Olswang is Stephen Hermer, who has been praised by
clients for providing a good service and being "very responsive"
and a "first-rate lawyer." Recent highlights include representing
NICE Systems in a cross-border acquisition.
– Chambers and Partners Europe 2013
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