Biggart Baillie Solicitors

Jennifer Spence

Partner, Edinburgh

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An experienced litigator, who takes a pragmatic approach to finding best solutions for clients, Jennifer heads up our team of solicitors in the fast growing field of Public and Administrative law.  She works closely with our specialist teams across the Firm to deliver a bespoke, expert service to our Public Sector clients.   She principally acts for local authorities and other public bodies, working in partnership with them to deal with a broad spectrum of challenges and disputes, particularly Judicial Review and Appeals against decisions of Councils, Courts and other tribunals, and draws upon this practical litigation experience when advising clients on the operation of their statutory functions and fulfilment of their statutory obligations.  She is an active member of the Scottish Public Law Group.

Jennifer also acts for the Scottish Children’s Reporter Administration and the Principal Reporter, providing advice on a diverse range of issues arising in the area of child protection law, issues impacting children and others engaged with the Children’s Hearings system.  She is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in Child Law and is experienced in conducting appeals to Sheriffs Principal and acting in appeals to the Court of Session, Petitions to the Nobile Officium and in Petitions for Suspension and Interdict.  

Jennifer has a particular interest and experience in dealing with cases raising human rights and Scottish devolution issues and several of her recent cases involving these issues have been high-profile and contentious.   One recent case lead to the introduction of new legislation.  She is a member and contributing editor to the Scottish Human Rights Law Group.

One of the few Scottish solicitors with experience of litigating in the new Supreme Court (which has taken over the judicial function of the House of Lords), Jennifer recently acted for the Appellant in one of the first Scottish cases to be heard there.

Jennifer works closely with her clients to ensure a thorough understanding of their values and the issues that are important to them, allowing her to effectively deliver a tailored service and help them to achieve their objectives.  She gives practical, common sense advice and takes a "no nonsense" approach to negotiations.

Clients say:

“Biggart Baillie, and Jennifer Spence in particular, provide a high quality, responsive service.  The advice and representation delivered show thorough understanding of the nature of our work and the context in which we operate.”

“I’m delighted with Jennifer’s prompt attention to litigation matters. Her calm and professional manner is based on a sound understanding of Court procedure.”

"We have a good working relationship with them. They understand our business and bring a personal touch."

Chambers 2012 commented "Jennifer is applauded for her understanding of the human rights angles of public law, as well as her work with the Children’s Reporter"