Media

At MFMac, our Media team supports national broadcasters, household brands, tech innovators, SMEs and public sector organisations shaping the future of content. Our experienced media lawyers deliver sharp, commercially focused legal advice tailored to the fast-moving demands of the media landscape.

They have a strong team, with efficient preparation, strong legal knowledge and the ability to call on other specialist teams within the firm. They're very organised and quick to respond.

Chambers & Partners

The many complexities in our case were expertly handled by the team. They were extremely diligent in their response to us and the quality of the service was superb.

Chambers & Partners

Overall, the firm is sophisticated, savvy and client-focused.

Chambers & Partners

A leading firm in Scotland for complex disputes in the trade mark area. They are sensible, pragmatic and a pleasure to work with.

Chambers & Partners

Their approach of dedicated, capable partners with excellent market knowledge of our business is fantastic.

Chambers & Partners

Exemplary knowledge of the sector, particularly in relation to creative industries and international IP issues. I felt very comfortable asking what I feared were often quite obvious questions.

Chambers & Partners

Navigating media law with confidence

Media law is a fast-evolving, highly specialised field, shaped by rapid technological change and the complexities of digital communication. Our expert media lawyers understand what’s at stake – protecting reputations, avoiding legal pitfalls and enabling confident publishing.

We offer clear, practical advice across the full spectrum of media law. Whether it’s breach of contract, defamation, copyright, licensing or digital rights, we help clients navigate the legal landscape with confidence.

Trusted by broadcasters, brands and public bodies

Our clients span national broadcasters, household brands, tech innovators, SMEs and public sector organisations. With a dual-qualified team across Scotland, England and Wales, we provide seamless support wherever you operate in the UK.

As media law evolves, so do we. Our team stays ahead of legal developments, ensuring our advice is always current, relevant and commercially focused. From securing copyright consents to advising on publishing risks, we’re here to help you make informed decisions.

The depth and breadth of their licensing experience, combined with a very personal and hands on approach.

Legal 500

Range of skills and specialties available. A one-stop shop.

Legal 500

Approachable, sensible, pragmatic team. Very easy to work with.

Legal 500

MFMac has a versatile and adaptable team that excels in a wide range of legal matters. Whether it's drafting a multimillion-pound international contract for complex engineering projects or handling sensitive issues like employee disputes and cease-and-desist matters, they demonstrate expertise across the board. Their approach makes navigating diverse legal challenges feel seamless and efficient. No matter what the challenge is, the team will help get it resolved pretty darn quick!

Legal 500

The team has exceptional knowledge of matters around intellectual property and trademarking, this depth of experience meant that they were able to resolve a tricky trademark challenge that I was faced with. They communicated with me in language I could understand easily and were patient and reassuring throughout the process, which was resolved very much to my satisfaction.

Legal 500

Euan Duncan and his team take a very genuine and personal interest into your business and its needs ensuring that they deliver against the needs being requested.

Legal 500

  • Project profile

    Boy313: Legal counsel for a rising media powerhouse

    Boy313—a dynamic new media production company with a vision to create original, globally resonant content—sought the expertise of MFMac for comprehensive legal support across their creative and commercial ventures. Our team played a significant role in guiding Boy313 through the complexities of intellectual property, content development and strategic partnerships, which ultimately positioned them as a formidable force in the media and entertainment industry.

  • Project profile

    Indy Cinema: Scaling a global SaaS platform for Independent Film

    Indy Cinema is a cloud-based platform transforming how cinemas manage ticketing, concessions, digital engagement and loyalty. MFMac supported Indy’s international growth by advising on SaaS contracts, ticketing frameworks and data compliance—laying the legal foundation for its confident expansion into the US market.

  • Project profile

    Esk Film: Legal support for a bold creative vision

    Esk Film, a trailblazing Scottish-based production company, is at the forefront of developing original scripted and unscripted content for both UK and international audiences. Renowned for its bold creative direction and unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling, Esk Film is part of a new wave of Scottish producers reshaping the national screen landscape. MFMac has been a steadfast partner to Esk Film, providing comprehensive legal and strategic support to fuel their creative and commercial ambitions.

Comprehensive legal solutions for the evolving media landscape

From content creation to corporate growth, we provide end-to-end legal support tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of the media sector – helping creative businesses thrive in a fast-changing landscape.

  • Intellectual Property & Licensing

    In the media industry, content is everything – and protecting it is essential. We help media companies secure and enforce their intellectual property rights across film, TV, publishing, music and digital platforms. We advise on all aspects of intellectual property, including copyright, trademarks, moral rights and complex licensing arrangements – from syndication and distribution to format rights and beyond. We also support clients in navigating complex rights clearance processes and negotiating IP-heavy commercial deals that maximise the value of their creative assets.

  • Employment & Immigration

    Media businesses often rely on a mix of permanent staff, freelancers and international talent. We provide practical, sector-specific advice on employment contracts, talent agreements and union compliance, as well as IR35 and off-payroll working rules. Our Immigration team supports production companies and broadcasters in securing visas and work permits for overseas talent, ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements while keeping productions on schedule.

  • Commercial Contracts

    We draft and negotiate the full range of commercial agreements that underpin media operations – from production and commissioning agreements to talent contracts, distribution deals and advertising sales. Our focus is on protecting rights, managing risk and navigating complex, multi-party arrangements with precision and purpose. We also advise on digital terms of use, influencer agreements and branded content partnerships.

  • Litigation & Dispute Resolution

    Disputes in the media world can be high-profile and reputationally sensitive. We represent clients in defamation, privacy, copyright infringement and contractual disputes, offering strategic advice to resolve issues quickly and discreetly. Our team is experienced in both litigation and alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, and we work closely with PR teams when needed to manage public-facing risks.

  • Banking & Finance

    We advise media companies, investors and lenders on financing arrangements tailored to the sector, including production finance, gap funding and IP-backed lending. Our team understands the unique cash flow cycles of media projects and helps structure deals that support creative ambition while managing financial risk. We also assist with grant funding, tax credit structures and co-production agreements.

  • Real Estate

    Whether it’s securing studio space, negotiating location agreements or acquiring office premises, we support media clients with all their real estate needs. We understand the operational demands of production schedules and the importance of flexibility in lease terms. Our team also advises on property issues related to live events, pop-up venues and temporary installations.

  • Corporate

    We support media businesses through mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and investment rounds. Whether it’s a production company being acquired by a global studio or a digital publisher raising growth capital, we provide end-to-end legal support. Our team understands the value drivers in media transactions – such as IP portfolios, audience data and talent relationships – and ensures deals are structured to protect and enhance those assets.

  • Regulatory Compliance

    From broadcasting codes to advertising standards and online safety regulations, media companies operate in a highly regulated environment. We help clients stay compliant with Ofcom rules, ASA guidance and data protection laws, including GDPR and ePrivacy. Whether you're launching a new streaming platform, running a marketing campaign or managing user-generated content, we provide clear, commercial advice to help you meet your regulatory obligations without stifling creativity.

Manufacturing, Media & Technology insights
Manufacturing, Media & Technology

Post-sale confusion confirmed as relevant in trade mark infringement

In Iconix v Dream Pairs, the UK Supreme Court confirmed that post-sale confusion is a valid consideration in trade mark infringement. While the appeal was allowed on procedural grounds, the Court affirmed that confusion arising after purchase - such as when products are seen in public - can still damage a brand’s guarantee of origin.

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Natalia Blauth 0S0bxvmperc Unsplash
Manufacturing, Media & Technology

Gifford v Sheil - Can you copyright a vibe?

In an era where online aesthetics can be as valuable as trademarks, the case of Gifford v Sheil offers a striking example of how far influencers are willing to go to protect their brand image.

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https://www.morton-fraser.com/sites/default/files/2022-04/PROFILE_MF_Carrie%20Mitchell_029.jpg
Manufacturing, Media & Technology

Scotland's growing role in the UK tech ecosystem

Scotland is rapidly emerging as a key UK tech hub, driven by strong AI startup growth, major infrastructure investments, and new government-backed initiatives like the Scottish Technology Council. While challenges remain around scaling and funding, the region shows strong momentum and potential for continued expansion.

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Manufacturing, Media & Technology

Freedom of Information reform in Scotland

On 2 June 2025, the Freedom of Information Reform (Scotland) Bill (the Bill) was introduced to the Scottish Parliament. The new Bill seeks to address contemporary challenges in public service delivery and information accessibility, this article covers the key provisions that the Bill includes.

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Our team of media experts

Our team of media legal experts is ready and on hand to meet your needs.

  • Euan Duncan

    Partner

    Euan advises media and tech clients on IP, digital media, and contracts – helping protect and commercialise assets through licensing, sponsorship and distribution deals.

  • Julie Hamilton

    Partner

    Julie advises clients in the media and technology sectors on dispute resolution and risk management, with expertise in both negotiated settlements and litigation.

  • Susan O'Farrell

    Legal Director

    Susan advises media and tech clients on IP and commercial matters, including licensing, contracts and IP protection strategies.

  • Katie MacLeod

    Associate

    Katie advises media and tech clients on IP protection and commercial contracts, helping align software and licensing strategies with business goals.

  • Stuart McWilliams

    Partner

    Stuart McWilliams, an accredited specialist in immigration law, advises media organisations on navigating the UK’s complex visa landscape – supporting talent mobility, production schedules and compliance with sponsorship rules in a fast-moving creative sector.

Cross-Border and International Services

Scotland’s legal edge for media

MFMac is the trusted legal partner for UK and international media companies working in Scotland. We deliver expert advice on IP, contracts, regulation, dispute resolution and data law – combining local insight with seamless cross-border support. Whether you're producing content, expanding operations or negotiating deals, we help you move with confidence in Scotland’s creative economy.
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Make an Enquiry

From our offices we serve the whole of Scotland, as well as clients around the world with interests in Scotland. Please complete the form below, and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.

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