Transport: Rail: UK-wide

Ashurst remains one of the strongest performers in the field, and market observers are quick to highlight the breadth and depth of its practice. The group is notably international-facing in its approach, and has advised governments across the world on high-profile rail infrastructure projects. It is equally strong in the UK, where it counts Crossrail, Transport for London and Docklands Light Railway as key clients. Clients are enthusiastic in their praise for the quality of work on offer, with one interviewee remarking: "I have never come across a firm that's so consistently good."

Commercial Awareness "These lawyers are client-focused, eminently sensible and commercially aware. They always look for well-constructed contracts and solutions rather than problems."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Group head Lee McDonald has a strong track record in rail-related work, including rolling stock procurement, regulatory matters, infrastructure provision and franchising. Sources say: "He is knowledgeable, responsive and a pleasure to work with." New partner Terence van Poortvliet is building an excellent reputation in the sector, and enters the rankings having had a hand in much of the team's notable work. Clients report that he is "an excellent lawyer who provides a consistently good service."

Clients favour Bristol-based Burges Salmon as a real alternative to London firms. It maintains a stellar reputation acting for high-profile organisations such as FirstGroup, First Capital Connect and Abellio on prestigious transport projects. In one recent highlight, the firm represented National Express in the inquest into the 2002 Potters Bar derailing. Sources particularly commend the lawyers' excellent responsiveness and further note: "You get a sense that they are interested in what you do, rather than just viewing you as a client with money to spend."

Client Service "Burges Salmon has always been able to field a solicitor to attend to my requirements, and the service has always been excellent."

Commercial Awareness "They have a very high degree of knowledge of UK rail regulation."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Strategic thinker" Simon Coppen impresses clients with his "calm attitude and quick grasp of the issues." He has a broad base of expertise, ranging from franchise bids to rolling stock procurement and industry regulatory structures. Commentators highlight Nick Olley as a "sensible, pragmatic and responsive" lawyer who "knows the industry inside out." He recently advised the Department for Transport (DfT) on the franchise interventions required to ensure the application of the government's High Level Output Specification. Christopher Jackson elicits praise for his "excellent speed of response when dealing with technical matters." He is currently acting for Eurostar on its procurement of a new fleet of high-speed trains, a deal worth over £600 million. Ann Metherall is picked out as an up and coming partner. She is noted for her engaging style and excellent understanding of the rail industry, and has remained busy of late assisting Jackson with the Eurostar procurement project. Brioney Thomas is a talented associate who adds to the group's strength in depth. Clients say: "She is very commercial, and won't argue points unnecessarily."

Simply put, the solicitors in Eversheds' rail transport group are "extremely good at what they do." They demonstrate an "excellent depth of knowledge" across the sector and regularly advise clients on a range of transactional and regulatory issues. Recent work highlights include advising Chiltern Railways on the Evergreen III project to construct a new rail link between Oxford and Bicester, and representing East Coast Main Line in a series of disputes with Grand Central Railway concerning ticketing obligations and revenue allocation.

Client Service "The firm deploys its resources extremely well to meet client needs."

Commercial Awareness "The lawyers are commercial and pragmatic."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Anne Harris is "hard-working, charismatic and knows the industry well."  She recently assisted the DfT with amendments made to First Capital Connect's franchise agreement in order to introduce new rolling stock and increase passenger capacity. Mark Brunton can handle a variety of work, from the letting of rail franchises to infrastructure updates. Clients say: "He has a clear understanding of the specialist issues in rail and is willing to put in the effort to meet our objectives." Associate Agnes Koko continues to impress with her work on various commercial and regulatory matters in the rail sector. "She is particularly strong on the interface between rolling stock and leases," say sources.

The rail element of Freshfields' infrastructure and transport sector group has a fantastic reputation in the market. It draws on the expertise of lawyers across various practice areas to provide a comprehensive service spanning franchising, financings and corporate matters as well as projects and regulatory advice. Recent notable work includes advising HSBC Rail UK on the refinancing of its UK rail leasing business, which culminated in its sale for £2.1 billion. The firm has also represented Siemens in proceedings arising from Eurostar's procurement of high-speed trains for its London to Paris route. "The lawyers are very responsive and not shy of hard work," say sources.

Commercial Awareness "The firm has a good commercial understanding of the sector, and is strong on the technical aspects of the law."

KEY INDIVIDUALS "Railway guru" Richard Phillips is widely recognised as "one of the greats" in the sector. He commands the respect of market observers due to his strong intellectual ability and detailed grasp of industry issues, from infrastructure projects and asset finance to rolling stock leasing and corporate acquisitions. Clients also favour Nicholas Bliss for his high level of experience and technical expertise. He specialises in PFI/PPP work.

Herbert Smith maintains a formidable presence in the field acting for high-calibre clients on a range of matters, including corporate transactions, franchising and large-scale development projects. It recently advised London & Continental Railways on the high-value disposal of HS1, the high-speed rail link between London and the Channel Tunnel. It also acted for Arriva in relation to its proposed £1.585 billion takeover by Deutsche Bahn.

Client Service "The lawyers have a friendly, team-oriented approach."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Global head of transport Adrian Clough is singled out as a "constructive, dynamic and highly effective" lawyer. He recently advised Stagecoach South West Trains on a dispute with the DfT over the South West rail franchise. David Moore is a highly regarded transport specialists who has played a key role in many of the firm's major work highlights. In the last year, he advised Arriva International Trains Leasing on its acquisition of several diesel and electric passenger trains for use on routes in the Netherlands, and was part of the team that acted on the sale of HS1.

The rail transport offering at this prominent firm is as impressive as might be expected from such a strong brand. Supported by a cadre of "industrious and responsible associates," the partners are said to be "excellent on the technical aspects of the law" and a top pick for complex infrastructure deals and high-value financing matters. Recent work includes advising the European Investment Board in relation to the EUR3.4 billion Dublin Metro project, and representing the lenders on the financing of the consortium that purchased HSBC Asset Finance (UK)'s train-leasing business. Other notable clients are DfT, National Australia Bank and Siemens.

KEY INDIVIDUALS The "practical and upbeat" Fiona Hobbs is "a pleasure to work with and a good leader of her team," say sources. She recently acted for Borealis Infrastructure and the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan on their acquisition of HS1, alongside Ian Andrews. Andrews enters the rankings this year having attracted praise as a "client-friendly" lawyer who is "commercial in his approach to legal questions." Charlotte Morgan is another of the firm's experienced practitioners in this field. She is regularly called upon for her expertise in rail infrastructure matters, and was part of the legal team advising on the Intercity Express rolling stock replacement deal. Stuart Rowson is a partner in the firm's global energy and infrastructure group, and is new to the rankings in this section. Clients say he is a "skilled lawyer and an excellent facilitator" who demonstrates excellent pragmatism in identifying solutions acceptable to all parties in negotiations.

Norton Rose has a strong practice in the rail sector, and is regularly instructed on high-profile projects both in the UK and internationally. Clients value the firm's breadth of expertise and note that through its long experience of acting on all sides in rail deals, it is well placed to handle a wide array of transactions. Recent highlights include advising STAR Capital Partners on its role in the consortium that acquired the Eversholt Rail Group from HSBC Asset Finance (UK), and working with Tube Lines in relation to its contract for the refurbishment of Jubilee Line trains.

Client Service "One of the reasons we use Norton Rose is that it has strength in depth across all areas. It is always able to help."

Commercial Awareness "Tom Johnson knows the rail industry inside out."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Tom Johnson is deemed a "pleasure to work with" thanks to his "client-focused, efficient and no-nonsense approach." He has core expertise in rail financing transactions. Infrastructure finance expert Martin McCann has particular knowledge of light rail projects, and recently advised on the Tel Aviv metropolitan mass transit system project. Associate Adam Longney 

As part of a major City firm, this rail group is unsurprisingly "superb in financings" and is frequently instructed on high-profile deals both domestically and abroad. In recent times these have included advising the successful consortium of Borealis Infrastructure and the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan on their bid for the HS1 rail link between London and the Channel Tunnel, and assisting bond arrangers in relation to rail-leasing company Porterbrook’s £3 billion secured guaranteed bond programme. "The lawyers are hugely experienced and willing to help on every aspect of a deal," say sources.

Commercial Awareness "I found them extremely good in both the legal approach and in explaining all the risks."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Group head Jonathan Bevan has "an excellent understanding of the industry, particularly when it comes to asset finance and project finance transactions," say sources. He elicits further praise for his ability to quickly get to the heart of complex matters and offer measured advice to his clients. Nigel Pritchard similarly has extensive experience of big-ticket transactions in the rail sector. He specialises in PFI and PPP deals and played a key role in advising the consortium that acquired HS1.

This highly regarded firm often acts for clients party to the biggest rail deals in Scotland, such as the Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, Clackmannanshire Council and the Scottish Borders Council. The firm is able to draw on the expertise of a deep bench of solicitors, and so has the capacity to handle multimodal transport issues. In one notable recent highlight, it advised Jacobs UK and Network Rail on issues arising from the newly opened Airdrie–Bathgate Railway.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Julian Voge brings a wealth of experience in corporate and commercial matters to his work in the rail sector. He regularly advises industry clients on acquisitions, contracts and shareholders' agreements.

Clifford Chance has a well-established presence in the rail market, and is regularly engaged by household-name clients to act on their big-ticket deals. By way of example, it was recently involved in bids for the HS1 rail link, and also advised Goldman Sachs and UBS on the first sale of Network Rail bonds into the USA. It is this capacity for high-value cross-border work that distinguishes the magic circle firm as one of the key players in the sector. "The firm has excellent partners and huge breadth and depth within the team," say sources. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Gavin Teague is an accomplished solicitor who is noted for his work on both rolling stock and asset finance matters. Clients say he has "fantastic grey matter" and is "brilliant for response time - he always get back to you quickly."

This highly regarded firm has a strong national and international presence, enabling it to handle a wide range of issues in the rail transport sector. It regularly acts for the DfT, with recent work including advice on such high-profile deals as the HS1 disposal and the restructuring of Eurostar's business groups. It also recently represented Tramlink Nottingham on the second phase of the Nottingham Express Transit PFI project, which aims to add a further two lines to the city's light railway. 

Commercial Awareness "Without them we would not have been able to make much headway on the project."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Bill Carr is an experienced corporate partner who has assisted a variety of public and private sector clients on rail transport issues. In one recent example, he advised London Underground on the multimillion-pound sub-surface lines signalling upgrade project. Jonathan Beckitt enters the rankings this year having won praise for his "prompt, precise and straightforward" advice. He specialises in PFI/PPP deals.

Clients report that SNR Denton's lawyers "respond quickly with sound advice" and demonstrate "fantastic attention to detail" when instructed on rail transport matters. The London team is able to draw on a deep bench of lawyers from the firm's global network of offices, and is particularly noted for its work in the Middle East. Recent work includes advising Bombardier on its bid to supply depots, rolling stock and maintenance as part of the £7.5 billion Thameslink rolling stock programme. The team also remains a key adviser to Northern Rail, handling many of its day-to-day legal issues.

Client Service "The work is absolutely excellent, and makes our life much easier - they anticipate what we need."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Christopher McGee-Osborne is a key figure within the team, and is much admired throughout the market. Clients say: "He has in-depth knowledge of the rail sector and delivers to our deadlines." The highly respected Matthew Hanslip-Ward recently advised DB Regio on its acquisition of the multimillion-pound concession to operate the Tyne & Wear Metro. "His advice is always cogent," say interviewees. Tammy Samuel "takes a balanced, pragmatic view and is quick to pick up on all the salient issues." She has core expertise in concessions-based contracts, rolling stock procurement and infrastructure development. Associate Martin Watt is one to watch, having been singled out by market sources as a talented and very thorough practitioner.

Dickinson Dees maintains a high-quality offering in the sector, and its reach extends well beyond its traditional stronghold in the North East. In one recent highlight, the firm advised Southeastern Railway on the procurement of various modifications, including passenger information and CCTV systems, to its rolling stock fleet. Other notable clients include Arriva, Go-Ahead and the DfT. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Rewcastle is an impressive transport specialist with great experience of projects in the rail sector. Clients enjoy working with him, and admire his detail-oriented, friendly and straightforward style.

This impressive firm can be relied upon to dispense "practical advice" on a range of rail-related matters. Notable work from the past year includes advising the Olympic Delivery Authority on the upgrades to the rail infrastructure ahead of the 2012 games, and assisting Transport Scotland on its procurement strategy for new rolling stock. Clients say: "Whenever we ask for support, they go out of their way to provide it."

KEY INDIVIDUALS The hugely experienced Andrew Jones "has an incredible capacity for getting down to the detail of a deal," according to sources. He recently advised Agility Trains on its bid to provide the replacements for the fleet of high-speed trains on the East Coast Main Line. Robert Smith is another highly regarded associate. He is based in the firm's Leeds office, and recently advised the West Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive on a series of station developments.

This excellent niche rail practice advises on a variety of matters, from the leasing and upkeep of infrastructure to property management and the disposal of rail-related businesses. Its impressive client portfolio includes the likes of DB Regio, the Association of Train Operating Companies, London Overground Rail Operations and John Laing Projects & Developments.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Helen Bissell is an experienced practitioner who recently advised BRB (Residuary) on the redevelopment and leasing of Waterloo International station to Network Rail. She is singled out for her "excellent knowledge of the rail industry, especially franchise and regulatory issues" and timely advice. Sara Hollingworth is similarly "quick to respond, and fully understands the clients' requirements." She recently worked with Chiltern Railways in relation to the leases for a number of car park premises.

Pinsent Masons has a wealth of experience in the rail sector and acts for a broad range of clients on projects and transactions. The firm has a long-standing relationship with the Irish Railway Procurement Agency (RPA), particularly in relation to the Dublin Metro. It has also recently been instructed to advise the RPA on the procurement strategy for a new line, Dublin Metro West. Other notable clients include Bilfinger Berger, Balfour Beatty and Siemens.   

Client Service "They always make you feel like a priority."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Raymond Beven is an experienced projects, commercial and corporate lawyer with a strong track record in the rail sector. "He is approachable, keen and really knows his stuff," say sources. Jonathan Hart is an expert in PFI and PPP projects. Clients appreciate his collaborative approach, with one interviewee stating: "He has an unbelievable ability to get stuck in with the team."

This highly respected City firm is well equipped to handle a variety of rail-related work. It is particularly well known for its work for infrastructure provider Network Rail, whom it has recently advised on such projects as the HS1 concession and the East London Line, as well as on a lease renewal test case in the High Court concerning WHSmith units at Euston station.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Carol Hewson specialises in dispute resolution, and recently assisted Network Rail in relation to a claim brought by First Great Western. Clients find her very easy to work with due to the fact that she "gets things done quickly and is very knowledgeable." Juliet Reingold heads the firm's projects group and focuses her practice on transport, defence and infrastructure matters. She recently advised Network Rail on the renegotiation of the HS1 operator agreement.

Stephenson Harwood continues to impress market observers with the breadth of its work and the quality of its solicitors in this field. Clients appreciate the fact that the group can advise on a wide range of issues in the rail sector, including asset finance, leasing and tax. A particular highlight of the past year has been its work with Transport for London in relation to the transfer of land to the Secretary of State for Transport, which will allow the land to be included in the lease to HS1. Eurostar International, Keolis (UK), Momentum Services and Transdev are also key clients. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Mary Bonar is endorsed as a "sensible practitioner with an excellent grasp of the industry." She played a key role in the  firm's advice to the Metro Express group on its bid to design, construct, maintain and operate the Metro North line in Dublin. The "user-friendly" Martin Fleetwood recently acted for rail operator SNCF on the project to integrate the French and Belgian-held Eurostar interests into a single operating company. Global head of rail Graeme McLellan maintains an excellent practice both domestically and abroad. Clients value his can-do attitude, and say: "He has a very dogged approach."

Much of this firm's work has an international element, and it is regularly instructed by clients in the rail sector. It advises sponsors, banks and governments on the financing of large-scale infrastructure projects, and is admired throughout the market for the quality of its solicitors.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Tom Winsor is quite simply "superb." He is hugely experienced in the sector, having been the UK's Rail Regulator prior to joining White & Case. Phillip Capper has also amassed a great deal of expertise in rail-related work alongside his broader practice in arbitration, construction and engineering matters. 

BLP's rail offering draws expertise from various practice areas to offers clients a "seamless" service. It is regularly instructed by financers and lessors on rolling stock and infrastructure matters, and recently advised Angel Trains on its procurement and leasing of Class 390 Alstom Pendolino ‘tilting’ trains to Virgin West Coast. Commentators are warm in their praise for the firm, acknowledging that it is "very committed to the client relationship."

Client Service "The lawyers are flexible and keen to meet their clients' needs."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Russell Clifford heads the firm's rail industry group, and is an increasingly prominent figure in the sector. "He leads his team well and provides clear technical advice balanced with commercial pragmatism," asserts one interviewee. Associate Jamie Wiseman-Clarke is quickly establishing a strong reputation in the market, and is a key part of the team. Sources say: "He is technically excellent, efficient and very thorough. He consistently delivers high-quality work." Senior associate Adam Longney continues to stand out as one to watch at the firm. Sources say: "He relishes the challenge of getting his head around the complexities of the sector."

This well-regarded Scottish firm has firmly established itself as a leading player in the rail transport sector. It is routinely instructed on a variety of infrastructure projects, and attracts praise for its extensive market knowledge and experience of commercial transactions.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Neil Amner not only possesses "an excellent knowledge of the UK regulated rail industry," he is also "personable and represents his clients with tenacity and great skill." 

Bircham Dyson Bell is noted for its expertise at the planning and statutory authorisation stages of major rail projects. The team has recently worked with Network Rail on proposed strategic upgrades to the national railway network on both the West and East Coast Main Lines, and also continues to advise long-term client Merseytravel.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robbie Owen heads the firm's major projects group and has expertise across a wide range of infrastructure matters. He recently advised Treasury Holdings on plans to extend the Northern Line in line with the proposed development at Battersea Power Station.

This impressive firm centres its rail transport work on franchising and corporate and M&A matters. Recent highlights include advising new client Go-Ahead on various rail station and infrastructure agreements, and working with Trainline.com on the renegotiation of its systems outsourcing development and support arrangements.

Commercial Awareness "The firm's solicitors are very commercial and understand the needs of business."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nicholas Thompsell is a corporate partner with a strong track record in the rail sector. His notable clients include Deutsche Bahn and the DfT.

This international heavyweight's transport and infrastructure group is sought out for major project development and rail finance work both in the UK and overseas. Commentators are impressed with the quality of the team's personnel, who are also said to be "very easy to work with."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Simon Gwynne recently joined the firm from Linklaters. He has an excellent reputation for his work on big-ticket transactions in the rolling stock and infrastructure space.

The work undertaken by Osborne Clarke is often highly technical in nature, and ranges from the leasing of rolling stock through to disputes between train operating companies. The rail team recently assisted London & North Western Railway in relation to an enforcement action from the Environment Agency that could have led to the shutting down of a key depot. Clients say: "The lawyers' industry knowledge is excellent and they quickly grasp the core of a problem or issue."

Client Service "The team is always happy to provide advice at short notice." "Their response times are very good."

Commercial Awareness "I prefer the ethos of Osborne Clarke, it's more commercial."

KEY INDIVIDUALS  The "superb" Lara Burch garners praise for her excellent technical knowledge. She acts for an impressive client base, which includes Eurostar and Arriva. Clive Smith, who joins from DLA Piper, has a breadth of expertise in the sector, from franchising to rolling stock procurement. He regularly assists key client Eversholt Rail with its various legal needs.