Lynda Towers appointment bolsters Morton Fraser’s public sector team

Morton Fraser has appointed Lynda Towers as director of public law.

Ms Towers has held top positions in Scotland’s public sector at the Scottish Executive (now Scottish government) and at Holyrood, most recently as solicitor to the Scottish Parliament and assistant clerk/assistant chief executive. This role saw her advise the Parliament up to, through and beyond the 2014 independence referendum from an independent legal perspective.

She has also been involved in drafting, interpreting and advising on primary and secondary legislation at both Westminster and Holyrood; advising government ministers, presiding officers and committee convenors. This includes advice on data protection and minimum alcohol pricing matters, with litigation experience in the CJEU, the Supreme Court and Court of Session on issues such as mental health, benefits legislation, fox hunting, planning and state aid.

Ms Towers will further enhance Morton Fraser’s strength in the public sector. The firm has clients including City of Edinburgh Council, Ministry of Defence and the Scottish government Legal Directorate.

Maggie Moodie, partner and public sector lead at Morton Fraser, said: “We are on the cusp of major legislative change in Scotland on the back of the Smith Commission and subsequent Scotland Act. Attracting someone of Lynda’s calibre at such a pivotal time is a real coup for us and testament to the quality of our team, our clients and our expertise.

“It underlines our commitment to appointing people that have a real insight into the public, having worked within it, who can therefore deliver an enhanced service for clients.

“We’re looking forward to working with Lynda and extending our reach at a time when there will doubtlessly be an increased demand for support in driving legislative and policy change.”

Ms Towers added: “I’ve always been extremely impressed by Morton Fraser and I’m looking forward to working as part of the team on this side of the fence.

“There is so much going on across Scotland’s public sector at the moment and, as such, there is a huge opportunity to play a part in helping Morton Fraser’s clients to shape the changes. This role is an exciting new challenge for me.”