ZYDA LAW RECEIVES HIGH COMMENDATION FROM CLIENT

Zyda Law has always been proud of its track record and the level of service it provides to clients.

In a recent request from the Legal 500, Dr Ron Crawford, Head of Planning and Regulatory Affairs at Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd, was asked to comment on the firm from a client's perspective. A glowing response was received and this is posted below for your information.

We value any feedback from clients as this helps to improve service in future as well as monitor success. If you should have any comments or queries, please email contact@zydalaw.com

CLIENT FEEDBACK

Q: How long have you used the firm in this area / these areas, and on what type/value of work do you instruct them?

A: I have used Zyda Law for over 10 years to provide specialist legal advice on substantial planning and environmental programmes in the nuclear industry particularly on decommissioning, waste management and large infrastructure developments.  This has involved, for example, securing planning consents for major new-build projects with design and capital budgets of c.£120M, devising planning strategies, liaison with the Local Planning Authority and the Scottish Government, participation in national consultations, production of Environmental Statements, preparing submissions and responses to Regulatory issues and comprehensive advice on myriad legislation. Specifically the firm has delivered key submissions and consents for intermediate level waste (ILW) treatment, conditioning and storage plants, low level waste management facilities including characterisation, assaying and storage facilities and hydro-geological isolation of the ILW Shaft.  In addition, Zyda Law has advised on the requirements of the contaminated land regulations and the standard to which contaminated land must be remediated. Paul Zyda enthusiastically championed a brief to rebuild our planning process which, inter alia, led to the adoption by Highland Council of the Dounreay Planning Framework (Masterplan), an achievement almost without precedent in the UK. 

Q: How would you assess the overall level of service? (Factors may include response times, business acumen/industry knowledge, appropriateness of advice, strength-in-depth of team, and value for money).

A: The firm is a small specialist practice and has provided excellent and efficient service to my company.  Zyda Law has played a large part in the success of many projects here and without the firm's targeted advice these projects would have been considerably delayed or incurred greater costs.

Paul Zyda has an established track record in planning and nuclear/energy which is relevant to my company and I know that it's backed up by success. I welcome Paul's refreshingly candid advice which is supported by many years of front line experience.

Q: Which individuals would you single out? What do you see as their strengths and qualities?

A: As a small firm Zyda Law is limited in the service provided, but this is more than made up by the quality and depth of advice, attention to detail and speed of response.  Paul Zyda will go that extra mile to deliver the client's objectives and he is part of our planning team.  The firm is also prepared to be flexible and accommodating in their fee structure.

Q: How does the firm compare to any others of which you have experience in this area / these areas?

A: In my view, Zyda Law's "can do" attitude, demonstrated track record focussed on client needs and ability to respond positively to challenging instructions far exceeds many much larger firms such as Morton Fraser, Maclay, Murray & Spens and Semple Fraser.  Paul Zyda has the ability to cut to the chase quickly understanding our distinctive situation and provide tailored rather than generic solutions.

Q: Do you have any other comments?

A: Highly recommended, a real client's firm.