Member Article

Top solicitor scores major goal

A North East solicitor has become a registered lawyer with The Football Association,meaning he can legally represent players and clubs in contract negotiations.

John Pratt, managing partner at regional firm BHP Law, is now a registered lawyer under The FA’s Football Agents Regulations and will represent the firm’s increasing number of football player clients and clubs.

Mr Pratt was a key player in the establishment two years ago of BHP Sport, the firm’s sports representation and management division.

Last year the division was strengthened with the signing of three well known figures from North East football.

Former England player and Middlesbrough and Bolton manager Colin Todd, ex Boro player and Gateshead manager Gary Gill and former Sunderland player and Darlington manager Gary Bennett joined the firm as sports consultants.

As BHP Sport has signed more young players, including Newcastle United star Dan Gosling for whom it helped secure a free transfer from Everton, so the need for more senior legal expertise has grown.

Mr Pratt explained: “The division’s work in representation and management is complemented by cross-practice legal support for our clients with advice on issues from contracts and renegotiations to image rights, sponsorship deals and intellectual property.

“Other professionals within the firm advise young players on property and personal matters, and an expert from BHP’s financial planning division advises on personal finance, tax and estate planning and wealth preservation.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .