Joseph McCaughley specialises in reputation protection, privacy, and media law, and acts for clients in matters involving sensitive personal information and reputational harm.
He is frequently instructed by prominent individuals, entrepreneurs, and international businesses in matters involving reputational risk, confidential information, and disputes requiring discreet and strategic resolution.
Joseph previously practised at Schillings International LLP, where he advised high-profile clients on defamation, privacy, data protection, and reputation management.
His work often involves responding to urgent reputational threats, advising on risks arising from media publications and online platforms, and resolving disputes where reputational, commercial, and personal interests intersect. Joseph regularly assists clients with pre-publication issues, reputational crises, and disputes involving media organisations, online platforms, regulators, and other sophisticated counterparties.
While many matters are resolved through careful negotiation or mediation, Joseph has significant experience in High Court litigation and the preparation of complex cases for trial.
Joseph’s practice includes:
- Defamation and reputation disputes
- Privacy and misuse of private information
- Confidentiality and data protection issues
- Online publications and digital reputation matters
- Harassment, blackmail and malicious campaigns
- Strategic dispute resolution and High Court litigation
Selected matters:
Many of Joseph’s matters involve sensitive reputation issues and remain confidential. A selection of reported cases in the public domain includes:
Joseph was part of the legal team representing the Duke of Sussex in judicial review proceedings concerning the decision of RAVEC relating to personal security arrangements.
Robinson v Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Trust [2023] EWHC 21 (KB)
Successfully overturned a wasted costs order made against a medico-legal expert arising from evidence given at trial.
Shaw v Maguire [2023] EWHC 2155 (KB)
Represented the defendant in arguing that the claim was brought outside the applicable limitation period.
Waterfield & Others v Dentality & Others 8 WLUK 90
Successfully resisted an application for a Group Litigation Order brought by 27 claimants in professional negligence proceedings.
Hall v Thomas, Hardwick and Everton Football Club [2014] EWHC 1625 (QB)
Part of the legal team acting for the club doctor in a claim brought by a professional footballer alleging loss of a chance of a professional football career.
Joseph has also acted in a number of high-value disputes involving prominent professionals and public figures, including proceedings brought by a former Premier League and international footballer. He has also been involved in separate claims valued in excess of £20 million.
