Martin Soames

Martin is a Partner in the Media & Communications Disputes and Dispute Resolution teams. He is a litigator specialising in publishing disputes, who runs cases at all levels up to and including the Supreme Court. He has a keen understanding of the commercial pressures of publication, deadlines and the need to balance editorial aims against legal risks.

He originally worked as a commissioning editor in book publishing and his clients include national and international book publishers, magazines, authors and content providers.

Martin is highly ranked in Chambers UK: “a highly experienced publishing lawyer who maintains a vibrant publishing practice”. He is described as “a go-to practitioner for pre-publication publishing matters’: ‘he’s a speedy, careful, meticulous reader.  He’s calm in a crisis and offers very balanced, measured advice”. Previous recommendations note that he gives “brilliant libel advice: succinct, cost-efficient, often entertaining and genuinely diligent”. Chambers commends his “invaluable insight into the media industry. Clients value his skill in assessing risk and negotiating his way through seemingly unwinnable situations.”

Testimonials

“He is really responsive and nothing is too problematic.” Chambers & Partners, 2021

“Potential libel issues in the text are resolved constructively, always trying to ensure that the author’s original text is preserved while making sure that the risks are minimised as much as possible. He provides an efficient service and is flexible enough to respond to ultra-urgent deadlines when they arise.” Chambers & Partners, 2020

“He is reassuring, knowledgeable and a joy to work with.” Chambers & Partners, 2020

“He’s thoughtful, very clever and popular with clients.” Chambers & Partners, 2020

“Renowned for his knowledge of publishing, defamation and privacy law.” Legal 500, 2020

“Excellent.” Legal 500, 2018

“Knowledge is incredibly detailed.” Legal 500, 2018