Mills & Reeve appointed to University of Manchester legal framework

Mills & Reeve has been re-appointed to the University of Manchester legal framework, as it strengthens its foothold in the higher education sector. 

The firm is one of four law firms chosen to join the University framework for the provision of legal services.

Sara Barrett, partner at Mills & Reeve in the North West, said: “The University of Manchester is recognised globally for combining academic excellence with a strong track record for research and innovation that is shaping industries and creating lasting impact.

“We’re delighted to be working with such a world-leading university – one that is continuing to push boundaries right here on our doorstep.”

Mills & Reeve has a Tier One education practice, with a particular focus on higher education. The team has worked on a number of high-profile cases and projects. These include supporting the University of York in establishing a new campus in Mumbai, India; as well as acting on the merger of City, University London and St George’s, University of London.

In addition, the firm advised the University of Sussex on a High Court judicial review to challenge a record £585,000 fine imposed by the Office for Students (OfS). The penalty stemmed from an investigation into the handling of gender-critical views, specifically related to former professor Kathleen Stock. The firm also works alongside the likes of the universities of Nottingham, Nottingham Trent, Exeter and Southampton.

Martin Priestley, a partner who leads Mills & Reeve’s education sector team, said: “Our team of education specialists is delivering impactful, forward-thinking work each and every day that is supporting new ways for universities to collaborate and evolve, even amid growing financial pressures and ongoing regulatory change.

“This latest framework appointment reflects the calibre and capability of our team, and we’re excited to be building on our presence in the higher education sector through our partnership with the University of Manchester.”