Athalie Matthews
Counsel
Athalie is highly experienced in all aspects of the law surrounding reputation management, particularly from a claimant perspective.
Her first career was in journalism where she worked as a reporter on The Mirror, The Daily Mail, The Daily Telegraph and The Independent. She has also worked as an in-house lawyer at The Guardian. She therefore brings a unique perspective to her advice, with clients benefiting not only from her legal expertise but also from her first-hand understanding of the industry and journalistic tactics.
Athalie protects individuals, companies and charities from a variety of reputational threats, such as hostile or intrusive media inquiries, damaging social media posts or threats from stalkers or blackmailers.
Where appropriate, her swift and robust intervention in communications with editors and journalists can prevent inaccurate, damaging or private information from hitting the headlines.
She can also defend clients from oppressive behaviour, where appropriate seeking anti-harassment injunctions.
Where material has already been published or broadcast, Athalie provides a clear understanding of the legal position and the benefits and risks of taking action.
In appropriate circumstances she can secure prompt removal of unlawful material before further harm is caused.
Athalie also reviews material for defendant publishers, campaign groups, bloggers and authors before it is published, and assists them in defending any subsequent complaints.
Athalie regularly writes about and comments on media law issues.
Athalie speaks fluent French and Spanish and intermediate Italian.
