Gordon Deane

I spent the early part of my career in England. I worked in a Magic Circle city firm and a major regional firm before returning home to Scotland. I joined Balfour+Manson as a partner in 2010.

I undertake a wide range of work involving commercial disputes. This ranges from commercial contract claims, to shareholder/partnership and claims against professionals.

I am qualified to practice in both Scotland and England. I often advise Scottish-based clients on English-based disputes.

Over the last few years, I have become increasingly involved in claims against banks in respect of mis-sold financial products. 

When asked to advise on a dispute, I always try to focus on the wider commercial or personal context. Some lawyers focus solely on the litigation process. Not me. I concentrate entirely on what steps I need to take to get my clients to their required destination. My first question is “where do you want to end up?”. I have a particular interest in mediation.

There will be times when litigation may be the only option. If so, I will do my utmost to fight my client’s corner. I have experience of acting for businesses that find themselves in disputes with big companies, including banks. Here is one quote from a Court of Appeal judge in a case where my client successfully took on a major utility company.

“It is one of the glories of this country that every now and then one of its citizens is prepared to take a stand against the big battalions of government or industry. Such a person is Lisa Ferguson, the claimant in this case.”

The best thing about my job is working with a wide range of clients.  It makes the job more stimulating.

When I am not at work you will find me either playing or watching sport…probably on a golf course near the seaside.