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Patrick O'Connell

Expertise

  • Technology

Country Of Admission

UK (England & Wales)

Testimonial
"I specialise in advising digital clients on complex and high-risk regulatory and commercial matters. I provide clear, decisive advice that enables clients to implement practical and commercial solutions.   I am known for my encyclopaedic technical knowledge, responsive communications and strategic approach to planning and problem solving."

Overview

Patrick has a broad practice encompassing digital entertainment, gaming, OTT, e-commerce, social media and health tech.  His key focuses include information governance, commercial exploitation of data, cyber security, online harms, emerging technologies and adtech.

Patrick’s collaborative approach allows him to work seamlessly and efficiently with in-house counsel, operational teams and organisational leaders.  He frequently works on business-critical, cross-border and innovative matters.  

Clients say Patrick is "incredibly responsive and commercial” and “very good technically and a really good communicator of his client's position" (Chambers 2021).

Work highlights

Patrick’s recent work highlights include advising:

  • A global computer games company on using player data to train AI
  • A leading MMO on responding to law enforcement requests for player data
  • Computer games companies on the implications of the Children’s Code, EU Digital Services Act and Online Safety Bill
  • A leading computer games company on using personal and device data to ban players
  • A leading computer games publisher on personalised in-game advertising
  • On the operation of the GAMSTOP self-exclusion scheme and the establishment of the Single Customer View responsible gambling initiative

Experience

Patrick is recognised as one of the rising stars of global data protection and is an integral part of the firm's sector-leading data team. He regularly writes and speaks on a variety of topics, including digital marketing, online choice architecture and the relationship between emerging technologies and data protection.  

Patrick is ranked in Chambers as an Associate to Watch for data protection.  Patrick is also a member of the National Association of Data Protection and Freedom of Information Officers Association.

“Patrick O'Connell is thorough and his depth of knowledge is outstanding. He is really approachable and a delight to work with.” (Legal 500 2019)

Before qualifying as a solicitor, Patrick worked for a number of years as a government investigator, and in the communications team of a major political party. 

Beyond the Office

Patrick studied politics at the University of Northumbria.  He subsequently completed a graduate diploma in law at Leeds Law School.