City Legal firm expands

New Appointments Boost Ambitious Law Firm

Commercial dispute specialist Alistair Dean has expanded his niche legal practice, with the ambitious appointment of two senior lawyers. Just three years after founding ADLP, the solicitor-advocate is delighted with the expansion, which sees court practitioner Michael Wells join as a partner, and renewable energy expert, Mignonne Khazaka, appointed as a consultant.

Alistair, who is renowned for his expertise in handling contractual disputes and negligence claims, often within the construction sector, said:- “ADLP remains a niche, specialist law practice, with a commitment to family values, fair and transparent pricing, and strong client relationships.

“Mike and Mignonne’s arrival perfectly fits the future direction of the firm. They each have a positive outlook on life, an impressive track record and excellent credentials. I feel very lucky to have both of them on board. The construction industry remains important to the firm, but we want to develop into other areas.  We can now deal with a broader range of dispute resolution work, whilst also gaining an all-important foothold in the renewable energy sector.”

Michael Wells, 44, is a seasoned court practitioner who has handled a wide and varied caseload during a 20 year legal career in Edinburgh, including spells at Blacklock Thorley and Morton Fraser. The Edinburgh University graduate has considerable experience in white collar crime, guardianship, adults with incapacity, personal injury, judicial review and Court of Session agency work.

Mignonne Khazaka, also an Edinburgh University graduate, has built up 10 years experience specialising in drafting construction and renewable energy contracts, with stints at Tods Murray and Morton Fraser.

Her client base ranges from developers, consultants, manufacturers and funders, and she is the founder of Green Investment Capital Limited, a company focused on raising finance for renewable energy projects.

Alistair believes both newcomers will quickly help enhance ADLP’s excellent reputation, as a family firm based in the heart of Edinburgh – Alistair’s wife and sister also work for the practice and even the family dog makes an appearance three days a week. The firm is regularly referred a wide variety of work, from debt recovery to complex court of session work.

He added:- “We’ve become very well connected in the construction industry with clients including major contractors, architects, engineers and quantity surveyors, and enjoyed success in this niche. However, I know the construction sector remains vulnerable in this economic climate, so I believe it is prudent to widen our scope and ours skills. We’ve certainly done that with these appointments and I’m confident both Michael and Mignonne will each play an important role in our ongoing success.”

ADLP was by Alistair Dean in 2009 and specialises in dispute resolution using adjudication, mediation, litigation and arbitration.  Alistair can be contacted on 0131 220 2755.