Pensions
Our large and highly experienced team takes a pragmatic and commercial approach to all aspects of pensions law.
Pensions law is increasingly complex. Our market-leading team of specialist pension lawyers – which includes lawyers qualified in both Scotland and England & Wales – helps our clients to navigate the regulatory landscape by providing pragmatic advice backed by technical excellence, and exceptional service. In this way we have built long-term, trusted relationships across the UK.
We advise on all matters affecting pension schemes and sponsors, from scheme funding and corporate activity to member disputes and securing benefits. Here is a brief summary of our service and expertise. Whatever the specifics of the matter at hand, we always offer solutions, and we never sit on the fence.
Defined benefit pensions
For trustees and employers of DB pension schemes, fulfilling their legal duties, managing their schemes and meeting the expectations of the Pensions Regulator has never been more challenging. We draw on our in-depth understanding of the issues, acquired over decades of advising trustees and employers of DB pension schemes of all sizes, to provide a service that is tailored to the needs of your scheme.
Defined contribution pensions
Significant reforms of DC pensions, and an increased regulatory focus, have made compliance and governance more demanding. We have been working with employers and trustees of DC pension schemes for many years, supporting them in providing market-leading pension offerings while managing the complexities and risks.
Whether you are facing challenges with your existing DC pension provision or are considering a switch to a DC master trust, we have the knowledge and market expertise to help.
Investment and ESG
Trustee and employer duties, default funds, charges… schemes need to know where the legal pitfalls lie and how to avoid them. Our investment specialist lawyers advise on all legal matters relating to pension investments.
Schemes must also take account of the increased focus on environmental, social and governance issues. We can help you to ensure that your funds, processes, documentation and implementation statements all reflect the latest legal and regulatory requirements.
Corporate activity
Pensions can be affected by many different changes: acquisitions, mergers, disposals, restructurings and reorganisations, distressed sales and outsourcings. Whether you are considering such a change and want to know more about the potential pensions implications, or are unsure of the options available to you as a trustee, we can guide you through the legal implications.
Scheme restructuring, mergers and consolidation
If you are considering merging or transferring your company pension schemes and are looking for some initial strategic advice, or are concerned about your legal duties as the trustee of a merging or transferring scheme, we can advise on feasibility and legal requirements. We can then guide your scheme through the entire process of implementation.
Data protection and cyber security
Personal data is at the heart of occupational pensions, and schemes must comply with all relevant data protection legislation. A big part of this is cyber security – a rapidly evolving area that is a constant battle between those who protect data and those who try to steal it.
Our pensions experts work closely with our specialist data protection colleagues to provide a uniquely tailored service to our pension scheme clients.
Member disputes
The complexity of pensions, together with increasing member engagement, means that those involved in the operation of pension schemes frequently face complex member queries, complaints and claims. Such complaints can carry large financial risk, as well as the potential for reputational damage and regulatory intervention.
We can provide specialist input on a complaint or claim you have received, or assist you in taking action to redress the impact of an error by a third party.
Pensions litigation
Disputes around UK pension schemes can cover a wide range of issues – from historic problems in mature pension schemes, such as equalisation and scheme amendment powers, to those arising from investment complexities or risk reduction measures and associated employment duties.
We work closely with colleagues in our pensions litigation team to achieve positive outcomes for our clients.
Public sector pensions
We have extensive experience of advising on public sector pension issues for clients in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. We have particular expertise in outsourcing of former public sector employees and implementing the Fair Deal policy, and advising on admission agreements and contractual arrangements.
Group life assurance schemes
We are experienced in advising on options for both registered and excepted group life schemes. Working with other teams around the firm, we provide bespoke documentation or tailor insurance provider styles to your needs, and advise on all legal aspects of implementation and scheme management.
Meet our key contacts
Louisa Knox
Partner and Head of Pensions
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Contact us
Louisa Knox
Partner and Head of Pensions
