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20 June 2025 / James Lynch
Issue: 8121 / Categories: Features , Legal services , Dispute resolution , Media
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Reputation on trial

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James Lynch, a partner at Maltin PR, explains why the role of public relations experts is becoming increasingly critical in litigation

England and Wales remains one of the world’s leading jurisdictions for high-value litigation and arbitration, bolstered by the London courts’ global reputation for impartiality and independence. Even after Brexit, English law underpins billions in international contracts and transactions, with legal services contributing £60bn to the UK economy. From contractual disputes to defamation and collective actions, London routinely hears cases that draw significant international attention. For litigants—particularly corporates and high-profile individuals—this means not only legal risk but also reputational exposure, often on a global scale.

Legal teams are now expected to factor reputational considerations into case strategy from the outset. Increasingly, litigation public relations (PR) professionals work in tandem with legal counsel to develop communication plans, monitor press interest, brief journalists on the case where appropriate, and correct any published misinformation—all while ensuring consistency with the legal approach. The myriad rules around communicating throughout the legal proceedings require an expert touch

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Browne Jacobson—Vicky Tomlinson

Browne Jacobson—Vicky Tomlinson

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Switalskis—Laura Ornsby

Switalskis—Laura Ornsby

Switalskis strengthens Grimsby child care team

NEWS
The Supreme Court has settled a long-running dispute over part-time workers: unfavourable treatment need be a significant or effective cause, not the sole cause
Arbitration may be private, but its confidentiality is no impenetrable shield. Writing in NLJ this week, James Glaysher of Kingsley Napley examines when courts will permit arbitral material to surface in open litigation
The Financial Reporting Council’s revised Audit Enforcement Procedure will alter the balance of power in corporate investigations
A telecoms operator may be able to hold over under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, yet still be unable to secure a renewal: an outcome described as a legal ‘paradox’

Safety fears do not automatically justify shutting an interested person out of a statutory will application

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