Firms in the Spotlight Employment

Anne O'Connell Solicitors

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Anne O’Connell Solicitors (AOC Solicitors) is a leading and award-winning Irish specialist Employment Law firm which was established in 2017 by our Principal, Anne O’Connell.

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Employment in Ireland

A&L Goodbody LLP

A&L Goodbody LLP maintains its strong reputation as a leading firm in the market, handling the entire spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment law issues for Irish and international clients, displaying extensive expertise in internal investigations in HR cases, corporate transactions and litigation. The team regularly represents employers before the High Court, Labour Court and Workplace Relations Commission. Duncan Inverarity leads the practice and has longstanding experience advising private organisations and public entities on crisis management. Michael Doyle is experienced in handling a broad range of employment and industrial relations matters, including internal HR processes and termination of employment. Noeleen Meehan focuses on whistleblowing and harassment investigations, further supported by Brid NicSuibhne and Triona Sugrue.

Practice head(s):

Duncan Inverarity


Other key lawyers:

Noeleen Meehan; Brid NicSuibhne; Aisling Muldowney; Triona Sugrue; Michael Doyle


Testimonials

‘The employment team at A&L Goodbody are our go-to counsel for sensitive and high-risk employment law issues, including protected disclosures and regulatory matters. The team has deep technical expertise in managing issues. We regard them as unparalleled in the Irish market for instructions of this nature.’

‘We have a long-standing relationship with Duncan Inverarity, who is greatly valued for his level-headed and business-focused approach to difficult issues and his ability to cut through to the essential issues in any situation. Noeleen Meehan is an excellent strategist who can chart a course through even the most contentious issues. She listens well and is highly adaptable to business needs and requirements, displaying a calm but authoritative style, which complements in-house legal teams extremely well.’

‘Our A&L Goodbody LLP employment team has been an invaluable resource. The team at A&L Goodbody were so welcoming and quickly brought me up to speed. We particularly value their pragmatic guidance when addressing complex employment issues.’

‘I have worked closely with Brid NicSuibhne. She has been an amazing partner whom I trust and rely upon greatly. She has top-notch expertise and an understanding of the nuances of our business. They have guided us successfully through some sensitive employment relations issues. I could go on and on and am happy to act as a reference for them any time.’

‘We experience them as superb, seasoned professionals with specialised expertise and profound knowledge, very customer-centric, with excellent responsiveness and focus on getting the job done fast and with the highest professionalism.’

‘Aisling Muldowney: an exceptional lawyer who takes people like me at hand by providing a smart navigation system in the form of a fully scripted, detailed, personalised document. Aisling is super smart, switched on, solution-oriented and easy to work with.’

‘Duncan Inverarity is one of the best partners I have dealt with in my career. His client relationship management is exceptional. Excellent and timely turnaround from first call to closing out issues. His teams also have the same values and ethos.’

‘Thanks to the flexibility, availability and expertise of the team. We were able to resolve several disputes and possible future litigation. Good advice mastery of the law, and excellent practical knowledge enabled us to resolve all situations in record time. Excellent teamwork and expertise sharing.’

Key clients

Invesco


Bank of America


Permanent TSB Group Holdings Plc


Aviva


UPS


Citibank


Abbvie


CRH Plc


Cairn Homes plc


Wells Fargo


DocuSign


Heineken


Viatris


A&F Hollister Ireland Limited


Bidvest Noonan


Glenveagh


Ulster Bank


Dublin Airport Authority


Work highlights


  • Advised Natwest on the employment aspects of significant asset sales to Permanent TSB and AIB, resulting in the TUPE transfer of a significant number of Ulster Bank staff to each Bank.
  • Advised IRCA on the employment aspects of its reported €500m acquisition of Kerry Foods sweets ingredients portfolio.
  • Advised Teneo on the employment aspects of the largest corporate winding up involving the liquidation of two Russian State-owned aircraft and shipping leasing firms, GTLK Europe DAC and GTLK Europe Capital DAC.

Arthur Cox

The diverse offering at Arthur Cox routinely provides advice on the full spectrum of employment mandates, including day-to-day HR issues, protected disclosures, whistleblowing and employment litigation. The group acts for a diverse client base of universities and well-known global companies. Practice head Kevin Langford is active in handling unfair dismissal, discrimination and other employment disputes before Labour Courts, civil courts and the Workplace Relations Commission. Séamus Given is noted for his expansive knowledge of crisis management and whistleblowing, and protected disclosures. Employer-trade union relationship expert Cian Beecher and corporate transaction and outsourcing specialist Louise O’Byrne are key names of note within the team.

Practice head(s):

Kevin Langford


Other key lawyers:

Séamus Given; Cian Beecher; Louise O’Byrne


Key clients

Aer Lingus


Bank of Ireland


Blackrock


Bord Gáis Energy


Coca-Cola


CRH plc


Dole Plc


Flutter Entertainment


Glanbia plc


Orsted


Universities: Dublin City University


Maynooth University


National University of Ireland


Trinity College Dublin


University College Cork


University College Dublin


University of Limerick


Uisce Éireann (Irish Water)


Vodafone


Wayflyer


Work highlights


  • Advised Global Shares plc, on its acquisition by JP Morgan.
  • Advised John Laing Group plc, on its acquisition of a portfolio of assets from the Irish Infrastructure Fund.
  • Advised Arcadis NV on its agreement to acquire DPS Group for Life Sciences and Semiconductor facilities, for cash consideration of €232m.

ByrneWallace LLP

The practice at ByrneWallace LLP provides comprehensive coverage across the full range of employment matters, acting for a varied client roster of major domestic and multinational corporations, trade unions and public authorities. Michelle Ní Longáin heads the practice, regularly assisting public bodies with administrative and equality related employment matters. Michael Kennedy is particularly well regarded for handling trade disputes and TUPE-related matters, while Lorraine Smyth assists clients with outsourcing, restructuring and redundancy processes. Other key names of note include immigration expert Emmet Whelan and industrial dispute expert Loughlin Deegan who regularly represents blue-chip clients on contentious and non-contentious matters.

Practice head(s):

Michelle Ní Longáin


Other key lawyers:

Michael Kennedy; Loughlin Deegan; Emmet Whelan; Ciara Ruane; Lorraine Smyth


Testimonials

‘The firm is very experienced and provides sound practical advice that always keeps us on the right path.’

‘Emmet Whelan is excellent. He is consistently clear, decisive, knowledgeable and provides excellent advice to our business. He is also very responsive and available at short notice. We are very satisfied with the service we receive from Emmet.’

‘Loughlin Deegan is an exceptional employment lawyer. He not only provides impeccable legal advice, he is also very practical and an excellent negotiator.’

‘An engaged approach – totally professional and extremely knowledgeable and apply this to best effect by understanding our business and the wider context.’

‘Ciara Ruane – exceptional level of knowledge on employment law and ensures we are fully informed and prepared at all times. She is always responsive and reliably hard-working.’

‘Byrne Wallace fields a vastly experienced team with great strength and breadth at all levels and across all aspects of employment law, very well supported by experienced colleagues from other disciplines, allowing the employment practice to operate as a technically expert one-stop shop. The firm is extremely well tuned in to international labour law developments and at the cutting edge of Irish employment law.’

‘Lorraine Smyth is a stellar employment lawyer. She has a huge wealth of legal knowledge and experience and is a wonderfully personable but steely negotiator who has a phenomenal ability to zone in on the key issues and always keeps the end game in sight. Ever the pragmatist, Lorraine never sugarcoates reality and tells a client exactly where they stand and what they need to know. Her technical ability to argue a case is second to none and she is a brilliant legal drafter who is very much appreciated, both by lawyers and non-legal colleagues.’

‘The employment team in Byrne Wallace have a deep knowledge and experience on all elements of employment disputes. They are responsive and organised and provide pragmatic and commercially sound advice to ensure the best outcome for the client. Excellent all round.’

Key clients

The Irish Civil Service


CRH plc


The Irish Times


The Law Society of Ireland


Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland


Local Government Management Agency


Smurfit Kappa


The Central Bank of Ireland


The Irish Prison Service


Ireland’s Environmental Protection Agency


Work highlights


  • Represented the successful party in a Supreme Court case which gave rise to the definitive statement of Irish law as it relates to suspension in the employment context.
  • Advised the Irish Civil Service on Ireland’s significantly revised “whistleblowing” regime and providing training across the Civil Service under contract to the Irish Government.
  • Represented the Irish Courts Service in successful defences of numerous claims of discrimination in respect of termination of employment of employees on probationary and fixed term contracts.

Mason Hayes & Curran LLP

Mason Hayes & Curran LLP’s team of employment law specialists advise a wide variety of private and public sector employers across the full gamut of contentious and non-contentious matters. The group routinely represents clients in unfair dismissal, termination of employment, disciplinary proceedings and other employment litigation litigation before the High Court and Workplace Relations Commission. Practice head Melanie Crowley assists clients with workplace issues, drafting bespoke employment contracts and HR policies, with a strong focus the technology sector. Ger Connolly advises clients on a wide range of employment issues, with particular expertise in employment-related immigration and TUPE. Ronnie Neville focuses on restructuring, while Elizabeth Ryan is noted for her employee investigations work.

Practice head(s):

Melanie Crowley


Other key lawyers:

Elizabeth Ryan; Catherine Kelly; Lucy O’Neill; Ger Connolly; Ronnie Neville


Testimonials

‘Very responsive, timely, practical, understands tech sector, deep experience.’

‘Melanie Crowley is fantastic, a fabulous and collaborative partner. She is practical, commercial, business-focused and prompt.’

‘Catherine Kelly is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in education employment. Give practical advice and support.’

‘Mason Hayes and Curran is well known as a leader in the education space in terms of legal advice and knowledge.’

‘The team provide excellent solutions based on employment legal advice.’

‘All the teams we work with regularly are excellent. Particular praise for partners Melanie Crowley and Elizabeth Ryan and associate Lucy O’Neill. The team are supportive and responsive.’

‘The team is practical and pragmatic with their advice, providing a service that works well with the level of support we need as in-house counsel. They are always friendly and easy to deal with.’

Key clients

Traffic Tech Europe Limited


AB Group Packaging Limited


Comar


An international charity


An international restaurant chain


Work highlights


  • Advised Traffic Tech Europe Limited on complex employment litigation.
  • Advised AB Group Packaging Limited on complex employment litigation before the Workplace Relations Commission.
  • Advised Morgan Stanley Capital Partners on an acquisition by portfolio company Comar of Automatic Plastics Limited.

Matheson LLP

The employment practice at Matheson LLP acts for numerous major domestic and international clients across the technology, pharmaceutical and financial services sectors. Among the team’s specialisms are employment and benefits matters, with the practice having recently expanded its involvement in employment-related immigration and pension issues. The group is headed by Bryan Dunne, who specialises in cross-border employment investigations and litigation before the Irish civil courts and WRC. Geraldine Carr assists clients with workplace investigations and restructuring, while Russell Rochford focuses on issues arising at the intersection between employment and financial service regulatory laws. Crisis management expert Ailbhe Dennehy is known for her expertise in whistleblowing and termination of employment matters.

Practice head(s):

Bryan Dunne


Other key lawyers:

Geraldine Carr; Russell Rochford; Ailbhe Dennehy; Tina O’Sullivan


Testimonials

‘The employment law team at Matheson is outstanding. From trainee to partner, everyone I have dealt with is not only experienced in their practice area but incredibly personable and professional – a great mix for a lawyer. The quality of their documents is excellent, and their turnaround times are impressive. The employment team have got their client strategy perfected – expertise coupled with incredible customer service skills.’

‘I don’t know what we would do without the Matheson team to support us in our issue. The team is always responsive, timely, effective and knowledgeable. If an emergency comes up, you can also rely someone on who will be available to help and answer us promptly.’

‘I want to shout out to Geraldine Carr. Geraldine has amazing business acumen, and she is extremely knowledgeable. She always helps us to find the right balance for any business decision. Plus, she is a joy to work with.’

‘One is the size and depth of their group – it’s a great strength. The other point is their breadth of experience and understanding of advising large employers in the financial services sector and the added dynamic of dealing with regulatory fitness and probity issues. This is a unique advantage that Matheson delivers to us in a trusted, knowledgeable way.’

‘Bryan Dunne – partner and Tina O’Sullivan – senior associate – Unwavering 5-star service from both. Their responsiveness, adaptability, tailored client-focused service, commerciality and consistent availability make them stand out from competitors. Both Bryan and Russell Rochford can interpret and relate advice and guidance to previous cases we had – knowing the client’s background is critical, and adapting to our style/commercial needs is key.’

‘Matheson is always extremely helpful. Tina O’Sullivan, in particular, is a pleasure to work with. She was willing to dive into any situation with our team and at times feel like an extension to our HR team.’

‘Russell Rochford and the entire employment team are key advisors to our business.’

‘Knowledge of many different areas – employment law, benefits, pension, tax etc. They understand their client and respond with a tailored approach that really responds to the business needs and goals.’

Key clients

Abbvie


Accenture


Adobe Inc


An Post


Analog Devices


Aramark


Aviva


Bain Capital Private Equity Europe LLP


Bank of Ireland


Bank of Montreal


BCP Asset Management


Bon Secours Mercy Health, Inc


CarGurus, Inc.


Chartered Accountants Ireland


Danske Bank


Deloitte Ireland LLP


Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (formerly AWAS)


Dublin Airport Authority plc


Dyson


Ebay


Equinix Group


Everest Re


EY


Meta


FINCAD


Fireye


Fiserv


General Motors


Goldman Sachs


Hewlett Packard Enterprise


HP Enterprise


HP Inc


Water Wipes


JAS Worldwide Management Inc.


KPMG


Lloyds


L’Oreal


Macquarie Capital


McAfee


MetLife


Michael Kors


Nestle


Norwegian Air


OpenTable


Paypal


PepsiCo


Radisson Hotels International Inc. t/a Carlson Hospitality Worldwide


Reddit, Inc


SAP


Shire


SonicWall


Stripe


Tokyo Electron


Uber


UnitedHealth Group


Universal Studios


UniCredit


Vertex Inc.


Wells Fargo


WeWork


Wordplay


Xerox


Zendesk


ZeroChaos (Europe) Limited


Zoom Video Communications, Inc.


3M


Work highlights


  • Represented a large multinational medical devices company in successfully defending three penalisation claims brought by a former employee.
  • Advised a global tech organisation on a complex, sensitive and contentious collective redundancy process.
  • Represented a global tech company in a dismissal matter challenged by a senior executive who sought to restrain dismissal on the grounds of redundancy by threatening a whistleblowing injunction before the Circuit Court.

McCann FitzGerald LLP

McCann FitzGerald LLP represents clients in a wide range of employment related matters, including data privacy, pension and regulatory mandates. Outside of transactional work, the team handles workplace and corporate investigations, regularly appearing before the Labour Court, High Court and WRC in employment disputes. Mary Brassil leads the team, with a focus on employment and industrial relation issues arising from corporate restructurings, cross-border mergers and redundancies. Terence McCrann maintains a strong reputation for conducting workplace investigations and mediations concerning partnership disputes. Donal Hamilton assists with TUPE and disciplinary proceedings, while Stephen Holst is active in contentious matters.

Practice head(s):

Mary Brassil


Other key lawyers:

Terence McCrann; Donal Hamilton; Stephen Holst; David McCauley


Testimonials

‘David McCauley is very responsive and supportive in his approach to supporting us with all legal matters – he works to understand our business to ensure our approach is aligned to any custom & practice.’

‘The MCF team have good advice on employment issues. I have never felt that I am not getting solid advice on employment issues.’

‘Donal Hamilton is always available to be contacted when industrial relations matters arise, which is important in the cut and thrust of disputes. He is always confident in his advice.’

‘This is a strong employment team that has looked after the needs of many of our clients in the Republic of Ireland over many years.’

‘Mary Brassil and Stephen Holst are both very prompt, thorough and great with clients.’

‘There is a huge depth of knowledge within the practice and great ease of access to professionals within other specialisms to supplement the employment team.’

‘The people and office are excellent.’

‘The uniqueness of this legal practice’s service lies in the blend of expertise, personalised attention and a commitment to achieving the best outcomes for clients.’

Key clients

Aer Lingus


Roche Pharmaceuticals


Boston Scientific


Merck Sharpe and Dohme


National Transport Authority


VHI


Transport Infrastructure Ireland


Sanofi


Science Foundation Ireland


CHC Helicopters


Work highlights


  • Advised Boliden Tara Mines on the employment and industrial relations aspects of the high-profile temporary cessation of operations at its facility in Tara.
  • Advised Roche on a six day hearing before the Workplace Relations Commission concerning claims of penalisation and unfair dismissal by a former employee under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014.
  • Advised Workhuman on the employment law aspects of a high-profile tech-sector collective redundancy process.

William Fry LLP

William Fry LLP is home to a well-balanced advisory and transactional offering, assisting clients in the construction, financial institutions, healthcare and tech industries. Made up of dedicated employment specialists, the team is particularly well known for its handling of corporate restructuring and employment issues, with emphasis on immigration and workplace health and safety. On the contentious side, the team handles matters involving discrimination, unfair dismissals and terminations for senior executives. Practice head Catherine O’Flynn is known for her focus on equality law aspects, while Alicia Compton has longstanding experience in advising companies in the public, technology and retail sectors. Jeffrey Greene is active on handling restructuring, outsourcing and TUPE matters.

Practice head(s):

Catherine O’Flynn


Other key lawyers:

Alicia Compton; Louise Harrison; Jeffrey Greene; Nuala Clayton


Testimonials

‘The WF employment team has an impressive practice with leading employment lawyers acting for clients from a range of sectors. They have extensive experience in high-end employment disputes and large-scale transactional matters, advising on a vast range of issues.’

‘Louise Harrison brings a very practical and commercial lens to all of the people issues we have managed with her. She takes the time to understand our business, the way we operate and our culture before providing her advice.’

‘The team is unique in their ability to understand the different aspects of each industry and apply such knowledge to their expert practical advice.’

‘Louise Harrison is really on top of her game, and no matter what issue arises, she will provide solid, thorough, but more importantly practical advice.’

‘Jeffrey Greene – a very practical approach to complex matters. Understand there is a business at the end of the advice.’

‘The William Fry employment group has guided us through unique issues about our blockchain company. Their understanding of our unique business is key.’

‘Nuala Clayton is a godsend and is always available. Her astute advice helped us through various tricky litigation matters. Jeffrey Greene also gives sound advice.’

‘The team led by Louise Harrison provide very commercially focused employment law advice. They provide multiple solutions with robust risk assessments.’

Key clients

Innovate Dublin Communities Company Limited By Guarantee


Integrity360


Corporate Fitness Works Inc


P.S.K Tech America, Inc


Technopath Manufacturing Limited


Laminate Solutions Limited


Safefood 360°


PIPO Europe Limited (TikTok)


Wetherspoons


Krispy Kreme


Tesco


B&Q


Nordic Aviation Capital DAC


Diageo


IDOM


NAOS


The Irish Times


SOLAS, The Further Education and Training Authority


Boots Retail (Ireland) Limited


Kilsaran Concrete


Glanbia Co-Operative Society Limited


Valeo Foods (Ireland)


Sanofi – Aventis


Edwards Lifesciences


Smurfit Kappa plc


NEC Software Solutions Services


Mitsubishi Electric


J&E Davy


Uniphar


Sodexo Limited


Fineos


DCC plc


Mincon plc


Sky plc


Lionbridge


Ogletree Deakins


Work highlights


  • Advised UKG Inc on its acquisition of global payroll provider Immedis (part of the CluneTech Group).
  • Advised CBPE Capital LLP on the Irish law aspects of its acquisition of a majority stake in advertising technology company Snigel Web Services.
  • Advised ConsenSys Software & Services Ireland DAC on complex employment litigation, including a novel judicial review application.

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard's employment group assists domestic and foreign clients with a range of individual and collective employment law matters, from day-to-day advice to major corporate transactions to complex employment investigations. The team regularly handles board-level disputes before the Supreme Court, High Court, Labour Court and WRC. Maura Connolly, who specialises in handling contentious and non-contentious employment law aspects, co-heads the practice with David Cantrell, who has vast expertise in assisting multinational employers with immigration issues. Key names within the practice include David Heneghan, who provides support on employment-related immigration matters, and Lorna Osborne, who focuses on pension law matters.

Practice head(s):

Maura Connolly; David Cantrell


Other key lawyers:

David Heneghan; Kate Field; Lorna Osborne


Testimonials

‘Really good advice and support for complex immigration and employment law issues.’

‘David Heneghan is exceptional – very good and clear with people whilst also ensuring the quality of the work completed is second to none.’

‘Dealing with the team is a pleasure as they make things very easy to understand for the non-legally trained.’

‘Maura Connolly is an expert in employment law and commercial decisions. Kate Field was excellent at dealing with a complex issue.’

‘The team in Addleshaw Goddard are always very helpful and provides very good employment law advice clearly outlining the potential outcomes with the client.’

‘Maura Connolly is extremely helpful and knowledgeable in her field of expertise and will always be available to answer client queries.’

Key clients

Karshan (Midlands) Limited


dnata Catering Ireland Limited


Tifco Group


Emovis


Marks & Spencer (Ireland) Ltd


Welocalize Limited


SITA


Colas Teoranta


Street Sweep Limited


Dow Chemicals


Teleperformance


Danish Embassy


Canadian Embassy


Finnish Embassy


B. Braun Medical Limited


Q-Park Ireland Limited


Manulife


Investec


Work highlights


  • Advised Tifco on a number of complex cases, including a sensitive protected disclosure matter relating to their provision of emergency accommodation to refugees under a Government appointed contract.
  • Advised Adrian Barbour on a range of disputes, which include claims alleging shareholder oppression, breach of directors’ duties, employment and personal injury matters.
  • Represented Karshan (Midlands) Limited, trading as Domino’s Pizza in an appeal to the Supreme Court of the decision of the Court of Appeal on the ‘gig economy’ relating to delivery drivers.

Anne O'Connell Solicitors

The practice at Anne O'Connell Solicitors handles mandates for a broad roster of domestic and international clients, including start-ups. The team also specialises in representing clients before Labour Courts, High Courts, and WRC. Anne O’Connell heads the practice, and is known for her experience in handling employment and protected disclosure law disputes. Laura Killelea advises public and private sector employers on employment law issues such as employee complaints and investigation processes, exit negotiations and severance agreements. Jenny Wakely focuses on dispensing clients with disciplinary procedures, grievance investigations, drafting of employment contracts, and redundancy processes.

Practice head(s):

Anne O’Connell


Other key lawyers:

Jenny Wakely; Laura Killelea


Testimonials

‘Anne O’Connell and her team are 100% reliable and very responsive – due to the nature of employment law, it can often be urgent legal assistance required, and Anne has always been available to provide pragmatic legal advice on complex employment issues.’

‘Pragmatic legal advice, responsive and available – prompt documentation.’

‘We are super satisfied with our experience in leveraging Anne O’Connell Solicitors for all of our employment law needs in Ireland. The team is easy to work with, quick to respond, level-headed, and always willing to go above and beyond to support our unique needs. They are thorough, thoughtful, and enjoyable to work with.’

‘We have had a great experience with everyone that we have worked directly within Anne O’Connell Solicitors. We have had an especially great experience working with Anne O’Connell herself, Jenny Wakely, and Laura Killelea. They are always willing to hop on a call when it will be more effective than an email, and their follow-up is both thorough and always on time.’

‘Anne O’Connell and her team provide a bespoke employment law service. They know the workings of this, and their experience shines through. They can also deal with related company law issues.’

‘The team at Anne O’Connell communicate and work through employment issues with clients to find solutions.’

‘The team that works in Anne O’Connell Solicitors are the most dedicated, responsive, knowledgeable and professional team of employment law advisors I have ever had the pleasure to work with.’

‘Excellent subject matter experts, prompt response times and advice fully up to date on matters at all times accessible to clients. Excellent communicators.’

Key clients

Brock Delappe


ESB Group


Certa Ireland Limited (formerly Emo Oil Limited)


Emerald Nursing Limited


Affirma Consulting Ireland Limited


Horizon Graphics Limited


MyMoneyJar Ltd t/a Money Jar


Sonoma Valley Limited t/a GSLS


Mitie Facilities Management Limited


Doyle Shipping Group


Northdoc Medical Services CLG (D Doc & E Doc)


Balbriggan ENTS


The Doyle Collection/ Doyle Hotels (Holdings) Limited


CALC Global Leasing Limited


S G Guarding Limited


SoftCo


KDoc Medical Services


Belfield Emergency Veterinary Hospital Limited


Kefron Limited


DSPCA Animal Shelter Limited


The Sporting Emporium Limited


Fingal Harriers Hunt Club


JE O’Brien and Sons Limited/ t/a O’Brien Ingredients


Italicatessen Limited.


Kestra Electro Weld Limited


ABM Therapy Limited


Fridge Spares Wholesale Limited


MiDoc GP CLG


Castlecomer Credit Union Limited


Advocate Consulting Ireland Limited


Writech Industrial Services Limited


James McMahon Ltd t/a McMahons Builders Providers


Pioneer Total Abstinence Association


Pirate Studios Limited


HR Hub


Dunraven Arms Hotel


Synergy Serviced Apartments Limited


Square One Law LLP


Dexia Credit Local Dublin Branch


Irish Sailing Association


Spinal Injuries Ireland CLG


Banks Pharmacy


F.C.D.M. Limited


Greenmount Leisure Limited t/a Limerick Racecourse


Royal Victoria Eye & Ear Hospital Research Foundation


Ansell Healthcare Europe NV/SA


SWARCO UK & Ireland Ltd.


Source Gallileo Ireland Limited


Iridium HR


ADVA Optical Networking Limited


BRC McMahon Reinforcements Limited


Of Rev Advance Ireland Limited


Winfo Solution Ireland Limited


Work highlights


  • Represented Brock Delappe Ltd in a High Court injunction ordering a director/shareholder of the company to remove privileged documents and all references to them.
  • Advised Affirma Consulting Ireland Ltd on a very complex and involved collective redundancy process.
  • Advised a significant number of senior executive clients and in-house counsel on multinational organisations across a range of industries throughout the year.

DLA Piper Ireland LLP

DLA Piper Ireland LLP advises a diverse client base of aviation, financial services, technology, telecommunications, pharmaceutical and manufacturing companies on the full spectrum of employment matters. Ciara McLoughlin leads the team and has substantial experience in matters involving discrimination against transgender people, sexual harassment investigations and senior executive departures. Alice Duffy is well-versed in handling redundancies, outsourcings and restructurings. Orla O’Leary is recommended for TUPE, outsourcing transactions, and collective redundancies.

Practice head(s):

Ciara McLoughlin


Other key lawyers:

Alice Duffy; Orla O’Leary


Testimonials

‘I have found DLA to be an exception in the practical advice and assistance they provide. They take the time to understand the business and develop a plan to assist us with the specific employment issue we have at that time. The professional yet friendly way in which they deliver the service is excellent.’

‘I have worked with Orla O’Leary and her team and have found her to be extremely professional and proactive in finding the best solution for our business. She is always available and understands that in a global business, the timelines we need to work to and incorporate different managers globally require assistance. Her advice is always spot on and gives a refreshing view of how to deal with employment-related issues quickly and efficiently.’

‘DLA Piper offers strong business-centred advice where needed.’

Key clients

Stripe Inc.


Allied Irish Banks PLC


Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Ltd


Superdry PLC


Uber B.V.


London Stock Exchange Group Plc


TikTok Information Technologies UK Ltd.


Keywords Studios


PIB Group Limited


Slate Asset Management


Emergn


Reach Plc


Shopify Plc


Menzies Aviation (UK) Limited


Zendesk


SE2


Lululemon Athletica


Finastra


Lufthansa


Accord


The Walt Disney Company


Black and Decker


Datamars


Indeed


Fivetran


Georgio Armani


Dentsu International


Work highlights


  • Advised UPMC Ireland Limited on their acquisition of Swift Spraoi Holdings Limited including the renowned Sports Surgery Clinic in Santry.
  • Advised the sellers on the sale of Irish gym software company Glofox to US tech group ABC Fitness Solutions.

Eversheds Sutherland

The practice at Eversheds Sutherland offers the full range of employment advice to both Irish and international clients, particularly in relation to staff downsizing, discrimination issues, protected disclosure claims and TUPE matters. Joanne Hyde leads the team and is particularly adept at advising multinational clients on employment, HR aspects of transactions, industrial relations issues and redundancy processes. Julie Galbraith is experienced in handling contentious matters before the Labour Court and WRC and often dispenses advice on employment implications of corporate share and asset sales, and the transfer of employees. The team was bolstered by the arrival of Marie Claire Scullion, who joined from Whitney Moore in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Joanne Hyde


Other key lawyers:

Julie Galbraith; Marie Claire Scullion


Testimonials

‘The team are cohesive and keep each other abreast of developments on any given case, which ensure a seamless service, even when a point of contact is unavailable. Turnaround times and speed of response to queries, ensures a reliable and sound service that you can count on as a client.’

‘They ensure the client is well informed by presenting all available options. They provide frank and honest views on the pros and cons and work through each option and scenario with the client, while allowing them to make their own decision.’

‘They take the time to know your business and the policies and procedures you have in place. They will keep you up to date with legislation changes and how that impacts your current policies & procedures. Offer an excellent selection of seminars on a variety of relevant topics.’

‘Julie Galbraith – thoroughly professional and knowledgeable in her field but also has a very approachable friendly manner which puts you at ease and encourages a true collaborative and effective working relationship. Nothing is too much trouble and she always goes above and beyond with the demands of our business and the quick turnaround deadlines that we sometimes have in place.’

Key clients

Microsoft


World Rugby


Intel Corporation


Cook Medical


Next Retail


Lockton Companies


Health Service Executive


HID


Survey Monkey/Momentive


Genesys


Teleflex


Netgear


G4S


Bank of Ireland


Pinewood Healthcare (part of Wockhardt Group)


Edwards LifeSciences


UPMC Hospital Group


Center Parcs


Mediahuis


Kingspan


Arachas Insurance Group


Netlify


NaviGroup


Institute of Directors


EXL Insurance


Starbucks


Eviosys


Eaton Industries (Ireland) Limited


FloGas Energy


Teleperformance


Sword Medical


Work highlights


Hayes Solicitors LLP

Hayes Solicitors LLP's caseload consists of a range of issues, including TUPE mandates, disciplinary proceedings, discrimination allegations, and termination issues. Experienced employment litigator Breda O’Malley leads the team, and stands out for her mediation skills. Anne Lyne specialises in whistleblowing and equality claims, while Catherine Jane O’Rourke has extensive knowledge of workplace investigations, statutory compliance, redundancies and dismissals. Niamh Cassidy and Jamie Doddy regularly assist public and private sector employers and employees.

Practice head(s):

Breda O’Malley


Other key lawyers:

Anne Lyne; Jamie Doddy; Niamh Cassidy


Testimonials

‘The Hayes employment team led by Breda O’Malley bring outstanding employment law understanding, practical commercial advice and a focus on reaching outcomes in the client’s best interests. You always feel like they have your back in challenging employment law situations. They never feel like a hired gun but rather as a partner invested in getting the best outcome for their client.’

‘The employment team at Hayes are highly effective and professional. They are fully engaged from associate to partner level with their clients, and their advice ensures we as clients are protected, without being overly hamstrung by the process.’

‘We’ve been working with Anne Lyne and her colleague Jamie Doddy on several employment matters. Their engagement with all matters, and in particular, one case, has been excellent. The advice has been sound.’

‘I have worked with Anne Lyne and Niamh Cassidy. They are very responsive and provide commercial, practical advice.’

‘My experience with Hayes Solicitors was a very positive one. I used their services at a distressing time, and I felt supported at all times.’

‘I valued the expertise and certainty provided by the individuals I worked with. Also, the realism in terms of managing my expectations.’

‘The team at Hayes Solicitors go above and beyond when dealing with us and our members. They are highly responsive to contact- always responding promptly with excellent, practical and well-thought-through advice. They are a pleasure to deal with.’

Key clients

Primark


Dublin Business School


Unilever


Novo Nordisk


Capita Consumer Business Solutions


Ladbrokes/Entain


DHL


TK Maxx


Aryzta


BDO


Irish College of General Practitioners


College of Anaesthesiologists of Ireland


Sandvik Mining & Construction Logistics Plc.


Supermac’s


Utmost Services Ireland Limited


UPMC Sports Surgery Clinic


Orpea FirstCare Ireland Limited


Talbot Health Group


Taconic


Economic and Social Research Institute


Irish National Teachers Organisation


Distilled


Macquarie Air Finance


LLRG5 Limited


Oracle EWC


Mazars


Work highlights


  • Advise Primark on the global transformation of the retail business, terms and conditions of employment, High Court litigation, transfer regulations and ongoing employer advisory work.
  • Represented Dublin Business School in defending High Court litigation (judicial review and injunction) involving a former college student and staff of the College.
  • Advised DHL on transfer regulations, agency legislation, data protection and contract law.

LK Shields Solicitors LLP

LK Shields Solicitors LLP‘s practice acts for domestic and international clients on the full gamut of employment issues involving labour law, immigration, employee benefits and transactional work, the practice also handles contentious mandates. Team head Aoife Bradley is noted for her extensive expertise in employment, equality, and industrial relations law, regularly advising employers on senior management issues. Ciara O’Kennedy is particularly adept at advising on the exit of senior executives in shareholder disputes.

Practice head(s):

Aoife Bradley


Other key lawyers:

Ciara O’Kennedy


Testimonials

‘Responsive, strong communicator, able to detail all scenarios. Good ability to share case load.’

‘LK Shields’ breadth and quality of services (related to employment agreements/policies, benefits, data privacy and more) enabled us to consolidate our legal needs with one practice and more effectively ramp up our Ireland operations. LK Shields have also demonstrated good flexibility and responsiveness in addressing urgent matters.’

‘The depth of knowledge in the subject fields in which we engaged LK Shields was notable, and they proactively alerted us to other legal/compliance areas we should be assessing. Our primary contact at LK Shields was Ciara O ’Kennedy. She adeptly addressed many of our employee-related matters while also seamlessly bringing in others in the practice as needed to address other matters outside her area of expertise.’

‘Responsive, practical and easy to deal with.’

‘Diverse team with a panel of legal experts for all aspects of commercial and employment law. Highly responsive with response times, providing detailed and relevant advice at all times.’

‘Ciara O ’Kennedy – expert in her field of employment law. Friendly yet highly professional. She covers all the details of the query presented. Articulate speaker at conferences and seminars. Always rely on her legal advice as her professional knowledge of Irish employment law is outstanding.’

‘Very thorough, careful, and client-friendly. The team is deep and accustomed to dealing with demanding and difficult clients.’

‘Responsiveness, teamwork, careful work, high-quality. Aoife Bradley has done most of our work.’

Key clients

Alltech Beverage Division Ireland Limited and All-Technology (Ireland) Limited


Hertz Europe Service Centre Limited


Culligan Water


Stepstone Group


A-LIGN Compliance and Security IE Limited


The Employee Representative Group of Indeed.com


Ciara Smyth


Centripetal Inc


Jackson Lewis P.C.


Work highlights


  • Assisted Alltech Inc and its Irish entities with a collective redundancy process and how to constructively engage with the workforce.
  • Assisted the Culligan Group with several corporate transactions.
  • Advised Hertz Europe Service Centre Limited on a complex outsourcing of the majority of its customer service function and provided expert advice on how the transaction should be managed, in consideration of alternative EU and non-EU jurisdictions.

RDJ LLP

RDJ LLP is known for assisting clients with the full spectrum of employment law matters, from workplace investigations and HR restructuring processes to day-to-day issues regarding employment policies and contracts, and employee relations issues. Practice head Jennifer Cashman has substantial contentious expertise and experience in handling disputes before the WRC, Labour Court and civil courts. David McCarroll has notable experience in protected disclosure claims, with a particular focus on the life sciences sector. Antoinette Vahey specialises in employment rights claims and industrial relations disputes, while Michelle Ryan focuses on TUPE-related matters.

Practice head(s):

Jennifer Cashman


Other key lawyers:

Michelle Ryan; David McCarroll; Antoinette Vahey


Testimonials

‘RDJ provides a dedicated, reliable and friendly service which consists of expert legal knowledge tailored to their client specific needs.’

‘Michelle Ryan is a truly outstanding lawyer – her expertise, dedication, and collaborative approach are remarkable. She consistently provides responsive and clear advice tailored to her client needs. She is knowledgeable and reassuring and is an absolute pleasure to work with.’

‘The team are incredibly knowledgeable in their area of expertise. However, what sets them apart is how they approach a task, an issue or a situation. They are incredibly pragmatic and logical in their approach, drawing on relevant and recent case law to help reach an outcome.’

‘RDJ is the firm that I always gravitate towards first. They are incredibly responsive and personal in their interactions. They take the time to get to know your business but also to get to know you as a professional within that business. My primary contacts within RDJ are David McCarroll and Antoinette Vahey, who have been excellent to work with, busy people yet always make the time to respond.’

‘We worked with Antoinette Vahey – she was fantastic and a huge support. Patient, professional, empathetic.’

‘The employment team at RDJ are second to none. Prompt, reliable and relevant advice make them our go-to for all employment matters.’

‘Michelle Ryan and Jennifer Cashman are outstanding at what they do. They are always pragmatic and on point in their advice, and they understand our company values and our line of business. They have a personal and friendly approach and are always ahead of the curve on all aspects of employment law. A truly great team to partner with.’

‘Very reachable, amicable and professional. All disciplines represented.’

Key clients

Medtronic


GlaxoSmithKline


Wayfair Stores Limited


Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland


Hovione


Ferrero Ireland Limited


Greenfield Global


Planet


Telus International (formerly Voxpro)


University College Cork


Work highlights


  • Assisted Western Automation R & D with its acquisition by Littelfuse, a global industrial technology manufacturing company.
  • Represented Global Pharmaceutical client in the successful defence of two claims arising under the Employment Equality Acts.
  • Represented a major online retailer in successfully defending a complex race discrimination WRC claim under the Employment Equality Acts.

Beauchamps LLP

The practice at Beauchamps LLP often acts for public and private sector clients in an array of employment matters, including restructurings and collective redundancies. Sandra Masterson Power, who has significant expertise in handling contentious and non-contentious employee governance and business-related issues, heads the practice. Paul Gough primarily focuses on mandates concerning the dismissal of employees, and compliance-related projects. The team is further strengthened by the arrival of Shane Costelloe, who is knowledgeable in HR matters and the drafting of employment contracts.

Practice head(s):

Sandra Masterson Power


Other key lawyers:

Patrick Waters; Paul Gaugh; Shane Costelloe


Testimonials

‘Responsiveness. Quality of research. The team acts as a sounding board and an expert part of the team.’

‘Patrick Waters, an associate at Beauchamps, provides excellent service, attention to detail, professionalism and sound advice.’

‘Excellent service provided, with advice that is both easy to understand and extremely thorough. The employment division of Sandra Masterson-Power and Patrick Waters are thoroughly professional in all their interactions with us. Response to requests is immediate, including at weekends when requested. Overall, an excellent service.’

‘Sandra Masterson Power and Patrick Waters are our main contacts. Both are extremely approachable on all matters, including matters which may not be directly related to employment law matters. Opinions are always very detailed, and they also bring their professional experiences to bear on the matter and provide the proper legal advice on the next steps. Overall, an excellent service by professional, personable, and knowledgeable practice.’

‘Beauchamps is a very well-managed and professional legal firm. They are informed and give relevant legal advice to our team and the wider company. Having worked with larger firms with a more expansive team structure, I believe I get better value and have a deeper relationship with partners focused on our business. I would have no hesitation in recommending the firm.’

‘Paul Gaugh is my trusted partner at the firm and has a wide breadth of knowledge of our sector and company. He has developed key relationships with our senior leadership team and is a go-to resource. Paul guides my team in an advisory and educational capacity, giving the necessary legal advice and sharing his knowledge and learnings, which is invaluable to a team from different demographics and tenure. Finally, I enjoy his leadership style and way of working, which has led to many successful outcomes for our company.’

‘Our business frequently requires urgent legal advice and so the speed of response is of paramount importance. Our contact in Beauchamps is always available to give advice and direction, which is always solid and has avoided issues escalated to the court system.’

‘We work with Sandra Masterson-Power and her team. They have a clear understanding of our business and our needs as a business.’

Key clients

Ergo Services Limited


VetPartners


John Deere Forestry Limited


Arts Council


South East Technological University


Mace Technology (Ireland) Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised VetPartners on the employment issues related to the acquisition of numerous veterinary practices in Ireland.
  • Advised Ergo Services Limited on employment and HR aspects during the acquisition of BoatyardX, an IT business.
  • Advised the Arts Council on full range of employment law matters including disciplinary and grievance procedures, TUPE and dignity at work issues.

DAC Beachcroft Dublin

The team at DAC Beachcroft Dublin advises both domestic and foreign companies on unfair dismissal, discrimination and TUPE-related matters. Practice head Barry Reynolds utilises her broad expertise to assist companies within the financial services, healthcare, technology and pharmaceutical industries with whistleblowing and contentious employment issues. Christopher Ryan is experienced in handling discrimination and harassment matters before the WRC, Labour and other civil courts.

Practice head(s):

Barry Reynolds


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Ryan


Testimonials

‘Collaborative team, key strengths in employment law, understanding our commercial requirements/challenges.’

‘Legal contacts are always available and responsive. Very pleasant and professional and can have honest and upfront conversations to work together to get the right approach for us as the client.’

‘The team has exceptional strength in depth. Various team members can deal with any specific requests, and all members are up to speed at all times. They are very flexible, respond almost immediately to requests and offer same-day service.’

Key clients

McDonald’s


Fieldfisher

The employment team at Fieldfisher is led by Barry Walsh, who specialises in industrial relations issues arising from M&A, outsourcing and redundancy situations. The team operates in several highly regulated sectors, such as insurance, financial services and pharmaceuticals, handling recruitment and termination of employment, and HR mandates. On the contentious side, the department regularly represents clients before the WRC, Labour Court and civil courts.

Practice head(s):

Barry Walsh


Testimonials

‘Approachable and practical.’

‘Barry Walsh – very personable and user friendly.’

‘Pragmatic considered advice that is easily digestible and provided promptly.’

Key clients

KPMG


Bank of Ireland


St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services


Irving Oil


Sazerac


King/Activision Blizzard


Aon


Anord Mardix


Simply Blue


RTE


EY


Tillotts


Olympus


Zifo Technologies


Figma


Eirgrid PLC


AIG


Athora


Intertrust


Blackberry Ireland Limited


Peloton


Symphony AI / Net Reveal


Tixserve


Finning


GoTo Technologies


LastPass


Avantor


Barclays Chemicals


Ohshima


Work highlights


  • Represented an insurer in a High Court injunction application regarding confidential information retained by a former employee.
  • Represented a public body in a High Court injunction application by a dismissed employee seeking reinstatement.
  • Represent an Irish bank in a series of equality – related equal status claims before the Circuit Court and before the Workplace Relations Commission.

Philip Lee LLP

The 'exceptional' employment practice at Philip Lee LLP is known for its broad expertise in immigration and employment rights mandates. Practice head Patrick Walshe is well-versed in pension-related issues and WRC claims. The 'outstanding' Cian Moriarty  regularly assists both public and private sector clients with immigration issues.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Walshe


Other key lawyers:

Cian Moriarty


Testimonials

‘The employment law team at Philip Lee are exceptional. Practical, efficient, experienced and are in a position to provide efficient and definitive advice to clients.’

‘Cian Moriarty is an outstanding lawyer. Super smart, practical, decisive and experienced. He provides a first-class service to clients and in an understandable way.’

‘Expert team in the employment law area who provide top-class service to clients and have many years of experience navigating complex litigation. Attention to detail is central and service to the client is second to none.’

‘They are expert employment lawyers who work collaboratively in legal teams with counsel etc. to give outstanding service. Patrick Walsh and Cian Moriarty ensure an exceptional service to clients.’

‘I think the team are very collaborative in their approach to litigation and advising.’

‘Cian Moriarty is an exceptional lawyer. He has great attention to detail and is very client-focused. He seeks solutions rather than highlighting difficulties.’

‘Commercial and pragmatic advice, not bogged down in legal jargon.’

‘Patrick Walshe is the person I mainly deal with; I like his style because he does not sit on the fence when asked for advice and he takes a commercial view.’

Whitney Moore

Whitney Moore acts for its varied client list of public and private sector clients in matters involving disciplinary actions and the restructuring  of workforces, and unfair dismissal and whistleblowing claims. Managing partner John Lynch specialises in recruitment issues and the termination of senior executives. Practice head Emma Richmond assists international tech clients with the establishment of their employment structures. Marie Claire Scullion left the firm in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Emma Richmond


Other key lawyers:

John Lynch; Roisin O’Brien


Testimonials

‘Big company with a big heart. A lot of knowledge and a great variety of opinions. I have used them for employment law and found them to be straight talkers and always have the up-to-date news and information for you.’

‘We have been lucky to work with Whitney Moore. Emma Richmond and the team have a keen understanding of the challenges of scaling companies. They always take the time to understand how our company works so that they can tailor a contract, response or solution to work for us. They go beyond just providing advice and always provide a how-to depending on our decision.’

‘Emma Richmond and the team were always flexible with their time and available out of hours if we had a question or query. The solutions used were always innovative and considered an alternative approach. Emma was always frank in her dealings with us, which is appreciated.’

‘For me, Whitney Moore offers a very efficient service. They are almost always available to take my calls and respond promptly. They offer a very professional service but are also down-to-earth, personable people.’

‘John Lynch is an incredibly knowledgeable partner and is a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Dublin Pool and Juke Box Limited


Kargo


ID Pal Limited


Motor Distributors Limited


Dublin Simon Community


Industrial Development Agency Ireland


United Hardware


Glen Dimplex Group


Wide Eye Media


Smartbox


PJ Hegarty


Empathy Marketing Limited t/a Pigsback


University of Notre Dame


Allianz Plc


Hyph Ireland Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Dublin Pool and Jukebox on securing the recovery of its assets held by various parties.
  • Advised the O’Flaherty Group on the introduction of the BYD brand of electric vehicles to Ireland.
  • Represented PJ Hegarty & Sons in defending itself against multiple complaints submitted against it to the Workplace Relations Commission and on Appeal to the Labour Court.

Lavelle Partners

Lavelle Partners  handles the full spectrum of employment law matters, including employment contracts, HR operations, disciplinary processes and unfair dismissal claims. The team has sector-specific experience in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, with a focus on protected disclosures. Marc Fitzgibbon heads the team, advising domestic and global clients on employment rights and pension law, while Nikita Kelly is an expert in equality, bullying and harassment claims.

Practice head(s):

Marc Fitzgibbon


Other key lawyers:

Nikita Kelly


Testimonials

‘Very commercial and pragmatic.’

Key clients

Allglass Windscreens Group


Brockley Group


Euro General Retail Limited


Keyhouse Holdings Limited


Netwatch Ireland Limited


Start Mortgages DAC


Work highlights


  • Advised the shareholders of Brockley Holdings Limited and their financial advisors, Crowe, on the sale of acquisition of Dublin-based company, Brockley Holdings Limited.

Lewis Silkin

The diverse offering at Lewis Silkin is noted for its expertise in equality proceedings, disciplinary investigations, and trade union issues. The group is also known for handling contentious issues, often representing clients before the WRC, labour court and civil courts. Síobhra Rush, who assists international and Irish clients on due diligence and transactional issues, co-heads the practice alongside Linda Hynes, who routinely advises on data privacy and business immigration issues. Catherine Hayes is a key name within the practice.

Practice head(s):

Síobhra Rush; Linda Hynes


Other key lawyers:

Catherine Hayes


Testimonials

‘Linda Hynes and the employment team have a great partnering approach and have got to know our business, how we work and our key values and policies. They’re open to challenges in getting to a different outcome and always flexible in their approach.’

‘In the main, I work with Linda Hynes and Catherine Hayes, and I find them both extremely personable and easy to work with. They show patience and take the time to explain various aspects. I have great confidence in the employment advice and guidance, which generally means that I prefer to go to them when dealing with important matters that I need to be right.’

Key clients

Airbnb


LinkedIn


Deliveroo


Britvic Ireland


Enterprise Rent a Car


Citadel


Ascential


Globalization Partners


Amdocs


HubSpot


Yahoo


Accenture


Twitter


Work highlights


  • Advised Verizon on a case decided under Ireland’s legislation on European Work Councils, following many EWC’s relocation to Ireland.
  • Advised Citadel LLC on complex High Court litigation which was valued at $47m.
  • Represented Infosys in its defence of a Labour Court appeal in an unfair dismissal claim with an employee contracted in India but working in Ireland.

Maples Group

Maples Group's broad offering acts for numerous corporate clients in workplace investigations, discrimination claims, and whistleblowing matters. The team is headed by Karen Killalea, who is known for assisting clients with employee privacy, GDPR, and gender pay gap issues, with her deep expertise in equality law. Ciara Ní Longaigh is active on termination of employment, promotion and redundancy matters associated with immigration.

Practice head(s):

Karen Killalea


Other key lawyers:

Ciara Ní Longaigh


Key clients

Taoglas Limited


US CourtScript Holdings, Inc


Fairstone Group


Francisco Partners Management LLC


Work highlights


  • Advised Taoglas on its acquisition by Graham Partners.
  • Advised Gwen Malone Stenography Services Unlimited Company on the buy side of the acquisition of their entire issued share capital by US CourtScript Holdings, Inc.
  • Advised Fairstone Group on its acquisitions of PAX Asset Management DAC.

Ogier

Ogier's varied workload includes a wide variety of mandates involving unfair dismissals, misconduct, discrimination and employee grievances. Bláthnaid Evans heads the team, exhibiting deep knowledge of gender pay gap issues, protected disclosures and mass redundancies, while Mary Gavin focuses on workplace issues.

Practice head(s):

Bláthnaid Evans


Other key lawyers:

Mary Gavin


Testimonials

‘The response time of the team is incredible, and you always get a commercial and practical solution to your problem.’

‘Bláthnaid Evans is a partner in the team and is very commercially astute. She will often offer an innovative solution to a problem more suited to the business than the traditional approach.’

Work highlights


  • Advised a global financial services company on a high-risk exit of a senior executive, as well as a proposed reorganisation of the wider management team in Ireland.
  • Advised a compliance and governance organisation on reaching an exit agreement with an employee on long-term sick leave.
  • Advised a large IT outsourcing company on multiple service agreements and the implications of the TUPE Regulations.

Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP frequently assists both local and international clients with employment matters in Ireland, such as acquisitions, corporate restructurings, and trade union recognitions. The team operates in several highly regulated sectors, including financial services, technology, construction and healthcare. The 'outstanding' Deirdre Lynch leads the practice and is praised by clients for her 'fantastic attention to detail and comprehensive knowledge'.

Practice head(s):

Deirdre Lynch


Testimonials

‘Deirdre Lynch is an outstanding lawyer. She has fantastic attention to detail and comprehensive knowledge of the law, and is super practical. She also has the benefit of extensive experience in major law firms and in significant cases which have come before the courts.’

‘Pinsent Masons deliver a rounded view looking at practicalities. They are happy to assess materiality and whether a particular aspect is strictly necessary inane given context; they do not just go for volume of work, but they look at relevance to the client business.’

‘Deirdre Lynch knows her sector and can produce both a light touch and a heavy edit on documents depending on the client’s needs.’

Key clients

Latch Medical


Ocuco Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Cathexis Holdings on the employment law aspects of its acquisition of Jones Engineering, a mechanical, electrical and fire protection contractor with operations in Ireland, the UK, Europe, the Middle East and South Africa.
  • Advised Briggs Equipment on the employment law aspects of its acquisition of Galway Plant and Tool Hire.
  • Advised Holmglade Limited on the employment law aspects of its acquisition of Cork City FC from Friends of the Rebel Army Society, a supporter’s trust.

Walkers

Walkers handles a varied array of mandates for clients from a wide range of sectors, including hospitality, construction, technology, aviation and financial services. The group has notable expertise in whistleblowing matters, internal investigations and harassment claims. Susan Battye leads the practice with her extensive knowledge of senior management issues, corporate redundancies and restructurings. Jennifer Bassett is another standout member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Susan Battye


Other key lawyers:

Jennifer Bassett


Testimonials

‘Walkers team is good at separating form from substance and identifying the real issues.’

‘Susan Battye, partner at the Walkers, brings lots of experience and responsiveness when dealing with the various issues.’

‘The employment team were incredibly helpful in a challenging situation. The advice provided was practical and easy to follow.’

‘Susan Battye was at hand and available through a difficult time for the organisation. She was practical, pragmatic and aware of the financial and time constraints that we were working under. She was a pleasure to deal with and took the concerns out of the situation.’

‘Dedicated team to support clients and handle queries promptly. Very easy to work with, keen to understand client requirements and needs.’

‘The employment team at Walkers are very pragmatic and results-driven.’

‘Susan Battye is excellent. She is extremely knowledgeable and responsive. She works with clients well to understand their needs and circumstances. She is pragmatic in her approach and guides clients on different avenues. She is collaborative with other colleagues and also has strong connections to other jurisdictions should a complex case require.’

‘Good understanding of the subject matter and good customer care.’

Key clients

Oakley Capital Partners


Work highlights


  • Advised Oakley Capital Limited on the multi-jurisdictional share purchase of Phenna Group.
  • Advised a fund and corporate administration services provider on the post-acquisition harmonisation of employee contracts and handbooks, and an employment law compliance review.

BHSM LLP

BHSM LLP's team routinely handles cross-border matters, assisting corporate clients with discrimination related issues, unfair dismissal claims, WRC complaints and TUPE regulations. The team headed by the 'highly knowledgeable' Richard Lee, who specialises workplace investigations and industrial relations matters.

Practice head(s):

Richard Lee


Testimonials

‘The team give an excellent personal service with real focus on the real issues at hand so timely decisions can made.’

‘Prompt and effective as required.’

‘They are practical and work to understand the problem to devise solutions.’

‘I find Richard Lee and his team highly responsive to queries. Provide thought leadership about suitable onboarding practices. Explains very clearly the impact of decisions. Clear and easy to understand.’

‘Richard Lee – highly knowledgeable about all aspects of employment law.’

‘Very available with great responsiveness.’

‘BHSM are a dynamic group of solicitors who listen to the client and get the job done rapidly, professionally and effectively.’

‘Richard Lee is extremely responsive when we reach out with queries and always endeavours to be flexible in arranging a suitable time to arrange a call to discuss the issue at hand. Richard always asks insightful questions to fully understand any employment issues we present to him, which helps in making sure we have fully considered all aspects of the matter before taking any action’

Comyn Kelleher Tobin LLP

Comyn Kelleher Tobin LLP's team is particularly active in the healthcare sector, displaying broad expertise in trade union agreements, redundancies, discrimination issues, and unfair dismissal claims. Emily Sexton heads the group, advising on workplace stress claims and employer’s liability claims, in addition to handling liability claims for government bodies and insurers. Litigator Eamon Harrington has vast experience representing employees and employers in termination of employment and disciplinary matters.

Practice head(s):

Emily Sexton


Other key lawyers:

Eamon Harrington


Key clients

Health Service Executive


University College Cork


National Ambulance Service


Tusla (Child and Family Agency)


Work highlights


  • Represented Health Service Executive in a constructive dismissal case taken by an Occupational Therapist before the WRC.
  • Represented Health Service Executive in a claim under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 by an individual who entered into a contract for services with the HSE.
  • Represented HSE in two separate complaints by a doctor employeed by it pursuant to the employment equality acts.

EY Law Ireland

EY Law Ireland frequently acts for its diverse client base, which spans the financial service, technology and manufacturing industries. The team’s key strengths lie in employment issues, including mass redundancies, employment agreements, restructuring and disciplinary hearings. Department head Deirdre Malone has extensive experience in whistleblowing, employee relations issues, and collective redundancies.

Practice head(s):

Deirdre Malone


Testimonials

‘Deirdre Malone goes above and beyond what is expected and is a great support to our business.’

Key clients

Keeper Security


ACCM


Borrocal Group


Salsa Jeans


Flynn O'Driscoll

Flynn O'Driscoll assists a broad range of public and private sector clients with domestic and cross-border employment issues. The team is noted for its knowledge of strategic employment issues and industrial relations. With a strong focus on individual and collective redundancies, Caoimhe Heery jointly leads the practice alongside Claire McDermott, who regularly advises on protected disclosures and disciplinary and immigration matters.

Practice head(s):

Caoimhe Heery; Claire McDermott


Testimonials

‘This practice has core values that shine through when dealing with clients. Their responsiveness to us is always prompt, and communication is on point.’

‘The team offer an efficient and reliable service which allows for peace of mind and that the assistance provided is first class.’

‘The team is very responsive, knowledgeable, expert and accessible.’

‘Flynn O’Driscoll has a very responsive employment law team who provide comprehensive advice and set out the options available clearly and succinctly.’

‘Caoimhe Heery provides an exceptional employment law service. She is calmness personified and eminently practical in her advice.’

‘Very client-focused and strong relationship building. Great support whenever needed.’

‘Caoimhe Heery is a pleasure to deal with. She has an easygoing and relaxed manner, which is needed when dealing with complex employment law issues. Caoimhe is extremely knowledgeable and experienced- she can always be relied on for solid and practical advice.’

‘Having used this practice for employment law issues, we found them to be thorough in their investigations. They issue detailed invoices and answer emails in a short timeframe, and are friendly and efficient.’

Key clients

Waterland Private Equity


ATS Process Automation


Shareholders of CWS Water Solution Limited


Work highlights


  • Represented Waterland Private Equity in their acquisition of Orbital Welding Solutions Limited.
  • Advised Air Nostrum on its proposed merger with Irish carrier CityJet.
  • Advised ATS Process Automation on the employment aspects of the acquisition of Odyssey Validation Consulting Limited.

GQ | LITTLER

Boutique employment firm GQ | LITTLER handles a wide variety of mandates, including unfair dismissal claims, restructurings, disciplinary investigations and TUPE regulations. The team is led by litigator Niall Pelly, who is an expert in whistleblowing claims and High Court employment injunctions. Alison Finn is particularly adept at handling matters concerning HR processes, and the drafting employment of policies.

Practice head(s):

Niall Pelly


Other key lawyers:

Alison Finn


Testimonials

‘I enjoy collaborating with Niall Pelly and Alison Finn. They are responsive, meet deadlines, and provide practical advice.’

‘Niall Pelly – excellent employment law lawyer. Professional and solution focused.’

Key clients

Globalization Partners International Ireland Limited


Omnipresent


Uber B.V.