Partner Joanne Elieli joins Stephenson Harwood as cyber disputes lead

Law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP has strengthened its technology capabilities, with the appointment of Joanne Elieli as partner in its London office. She will lead the firm's cyber practice.

"Technology is a core part of the firm's strategic focus, and bolstering our expertise in this sector is a key priority," said Simon Bollans, partner and head of Stephenson Harwood's technology sector group. "Adding Joanne to our ranks will drive the growth of our full, end-to-end service in the cyber area – whether in terms of supporting clients when cyber incidents arise, or identifying litigation risks and managing potential claims and liability."

Joanne is a commercial litigator specialising in technology, cyber, data and privacy disputes and both civil and regulatory investigations. As well as litigating technology, privacy-related and data protection disputes, she provides strategic advice in relation to data breaches arising from cyber attacks, and other infringements resulting from data protection law. She also has notable experience representing clients in relation to inquiries and investigations – both internal, and those conducted by regulators.

"Cyber incidents – and the associated follow on litigation – occur all too frequently, and our clients need us to have the right level of offering to meet that demand and help them manage these significant and, at times, business critical risks," said Dan Holland, head of Stephenson Harwood's IP, tech and data practice. "That's why technology, including cyber, has been such a focus for our growth – with our team bolstered by recent promotions and lateral joiners. Joanne's impressive skillset and experience, enhances our capabilities to support clients in this space."

Stephenson Harwood's technology team provides a full range of legal services to businesses involved in the sector. The firm acts for clients ranging from start-ups to established technology companies, and businesses undergoing digital transformation of their business operations. The firm's lawyers provide support across the whole product and business lifecycle – whether in relation to technology focused development, deployment, regulation or disputes.