Douglas McLachlan

Douglas is a highly experienced partner in our corporate department. He works on all aspects of Intellectual Property /Information Technology law, including the protection and exploitation of trade marks, copyright, branding, patents, know-how, database and design rights. He also has extensive experience in drafting and negotiating commercial contracts such as software licences, agency, distribution and franchise agreements.

As a member of our Brexit group, Douglas has been at the forefront of advising clients in relation to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and he advises on freedom of information issues. He also advises on reputation management and on advertising and marketing and “passing off” issues. Accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in EU Public Procurement Law, Douglas helps public bodies design and run successful procurement exercises. He also supports private sector tenderers who bid for these contracts.

His expert advice is particularly valued on contentious procurement matters, where he helps both aggrieved bidders and defending contracting authorities.

Douglas has acted in numerous cases in both the Court of Session and the sheriff court. He has also gained experience advising on UK and EU competition law and has advised a number of clients subject to cartel investigation by the Competition & Markets Authority. His expertise has also enhanced mergers and acquisitions that require clearance from UK and EU competition authorities.

Sharing the benefits of his extensive knowledge and experience, Douglas has acted as an online tutor for the Edinburgh University LL.M in Innovation, Technology and the Law.