Brabners LLP is active on the full range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters, fielding a client list which features leading national sports clubs and associations, luxury cosmetic brands, and retail and hospitality players. The firm has expertise counselling on complex issues such as whistleblowing and mental health employee management, as well as possessing the capability to conduct internal investigations and consequently present findings to the Global Compliance Committee. Team head and Manchester-based Lydia Edgar is a trusted advisor to national governing bodies of sport and has extensive experience advising on executive arrivals and departures, internal grievances and diversity initiatives. Co-head Nick Campbell operates from both the Liverpool and Lancashires office and is highly active in the manufacturing, construction and professional services sectors. Liverpool-based Joseph Shelston demonstrates notable expertise in TUPE, collective bargaining, and advising clients on post-Covid working environments, and regularly works alongside Kate Venables who is an expert in employment tribunal litigation, legal compliance audits and policy realignment.
Employment in North West
Brabners LLP
Practice head(s):
Lydia Edgar; Nick Campbell
Other key lawyers:
Joseph Shelton; Kate Venables
Testimonials
‘The team are very in tune with the needs of their clients. They listen and do not impose some pre-set solution. Instead, they provide sensible advice which is generated from their vast collective experience. The team also work very well together.’
‘The partners and associates at Brabners are very ‘down-to-earth’ without being condescending. There is an absence of buzz-words and complexity in their discourse without any loss of substance.’
‘Kate Venables is a straight talker and spot on with no ambiguity on advice.’
Key clients
Alexander Wang
Arighi Bianchi
BASC (British Association for Shooting and Conservation)
Bibby Marine Management
Cammell Laird Shiprepairers and Shipbuilders
Limited
Chester Race Company Limited
Chase de Vere IFA Group plc
CRJ Services Limited
FCSA
JD Wetherspoon plc
Lawn Tennis Association
Leicester City Football Club
Leyland Trucks Limited
Liverpool Football Club & Athletic Grounds Ltd
Medicines Discovery Catapult
NWF Group PLC
Peel Ports Ltd
Ralawise Limited
Riverside Group Limited
Shaw Trust
The Employment Agents Movement
The Very Group No
Your Housing Group
Work highlights
- Provide both strategic and day to day employment advice to Shaw Trust’s HR team and to their senior management team.
- Support REC, TEAM, APSCO and FCSA and their members to understand and apply the law related to the recruitment industry.
- Supported Pilkington’s human resources team across the business for many years.
DAC Beachcroft LLP
Fielding an impressive list of logistics and leisure sector-based clients, DAC Beachcroft LLP is regularly sought out for its expertise in handling substantial reorganisations and restructurings of workforces. Beyond this, the firm has vast litigation experience, representing employers in unfair dismissal cases, bullying and harassment claims, as well as issues related to Covid-19. HMRC audits and internal team support are also significant aspects of the group’s caseload. Manchester head Philip Harman is a trusted advisor to Trade Unions, possessing experience in matters pertaining recognition, TUPE transfers and member dismissals. Co-head Deborah Hely has a broad practice that includes National Minimum Wage audits, data protection advice, and executive terminations, and is also highly competent in mandates that have international aspects. Paul Corris is active in litigation, while Jenny Walker‘s caseload is concentrated on bullying, harassment, discrimination and whistleblowing claims. Jane Marshall joined from Weightmans LLP in 2023.
Practice head(s):
Philip Harman; Deborah Hely
Other key lawyers:
Paul Corris; Jenny Walker; Jane Marshall
Testimonials
‘Our team are great. They are friendly yet professional. We have great relationships with Deborah Healy, Paul Corris and Michelle Corrigan. Their advice is always robust and well explained. They are open to challenge and will work with us to find the right solution and approach.’
‘Extremely knowledgeable, very accommodating and pleasant to work with.’
‘A number of us have worked with Paul Corris and we always find him easy to work with, knowledgeable and considerate of our particular needs and business challenges.’
Key clients
Bentley Motors Ltd
British Telecom plc
DHL Group (Deutsche Post DHL Group)
Chubb Insurance
Information Commissioner’s Office
Copado Ltd
National Union of Students
Places for People Group Ltd
The Royal British Legion
Unilever plc
Williams Lea Ltd
Tag Europe Ltd
Mobolise Mobe
Salford Van Hire
BUPA Dental
Norbord Europe/West Fraser
Bolton NBC
East Lancashire NHS Trust
Qiagen
United Living Group
Work highlights
- Represented a national leisure business, a global retail business and a global logistics business in relation to applications for trade union statutory recognition and the subsequent negotiation of the recognition agreement.
- Successfully defended a courtier driver related claim following a 6 week hearing. Used an untested legal argument based on the interpretation of the Equality Act.
- Provided a secondment service to support British Telecom’s internal legal team, responding to internal BT Group queries, and providing advice and support on day-to-day matters, as well as a dedicated TUPE assistance.
DLA Piper
Owing to its considerable global footprint, DLA Piper has a near unrivalled reputation for complex international employment work in the North West, and is a go-to for a plethora of household names in the hospitality, tech, food and drink and professional services industries. The group is highly active in Employment Tribunal work, mainly whistleblowing, discrimination and constructive unfair dismissal claims, and has also been instructed to liaise with foreign bodies on behalf of employers over product regulatory investigations. Spearheading the practice is Alan Chalmers, whose expertise in executive terminations and departures ensures he is a regular port of call for companies undergoing senior restructurings. Furthermore, he also possesses an overarching understanding of collective redundancies. George Nicholson is principally noted for his acumen regarding compliance and regulatory issues in the financial services sector and provides wider counsel to employers interested in altering employee arrangements, such as contracts and pensions. Recently promoted partner Emma Mills is a TUPE expert, with a practice largely concentrated on litigation and employment issues arising out of corporate transactions, while Helen Hall advises on the full range of group matters, with recent activity in data protection and employee relations mandates.
Practice head(s):
Alan Chalmers
Other key lawyers:
George Nicholson; Emma Mills; Helen Hall
Testimonials
‘The team have been extremely helpful taking on DSARs, providing a thorough and high quality service, providing advice, and additionally providing extra unsolicited alerts or advice which have greatly helped. They have also been quick to recommend and put us in touch with different parts of DLA Piper abroad when we have asked for help outside their regular remit.’
‘An individual that understands your business helps immensely and building up a good rapport. A person that is approaching, provides sound technical advice and is timely in their responses. I feel that the team I deal with have all of these qualities who go above and beyond, often answering emails late into the evening.’
‘Having only worked with the Team for the last year, I feel like I have been working with them for years. They have got to grips with understanding our business and the people almost immediately – they seem to just get it! Having a good rapport with a team that understands your business is important!’
‘George Nicholson is completely commercial and client focussed. Someone who you would completely trust to deliver. Emma Mills is driven, determined and someone who you would want to fight your corner.’
‘DLA Piper are in the premier league of employment teams in the region. Peerless client base and without a weak link in their personnel.’
‘The majority of our direct contact has been with George Nicholson, who has driven the relationship and always been quick to acknowledge and respond to any enquiry that his team is immediately responsible for. He has been particularly helpful with thinking broader than the standard answers, educating us and anticipating issues.’
Key clients
ABB Limited
Adevinta
Akzo Nobel
Budweiser Brewing Group
BCN Group
ATPI Group
Canon (UK & Europe)
Compass Minerals Group
Crosslane Group
Currys plc
Elopak UK Limited
International Hotels Group plc (IHG)
Intelerad UK Limited
Kelly Group
Magnox Limited
Northumbrian Water Group
Reach plc
SDL Limited
Sealed Air Limited
Sellafield Limited
Sopra Steria
Sony Music
Sodexo
Stericycle
The Disclosure and Barring Service
The Co-operative Bank Limited
Verna Group International
Wave Utilities
Analysys Mason
Clinical Partners Limited
Work highlights
- Advised from 44 jurisdictions on works council consultation, work permits and other mandatory administrative actions in relation to employees arising from a change in control of Majorel Group Luxembourg S.A.
- Representing Sellafield Ltd on a complex claim for victimisation and whistleblowing detriment brought against Sellafield Ltd, one of its employees and a third party by a former contractor.
DWF
Boasting a deep bench of advisers with close connections to the consumer, insurance and transport sectors, DWF work for a litany of clients on the full range of employment matters. Noted for its strong contentious offering, the team has an impressive track record in the Employment Appeal Tribunal and Court of Appeal on matters concerning workers status and rights and dismissal claims. Group head Joanne Frew has been highly active advising clients in-house on a variety of employment issues, including IR35 implementation, Equality Act breaches, and UK legal compliance for international companies. One of the most eminent names in the market, Kirsty Rogers is a trusted adviser to large, global companies engaged in restructurings and reorganisations, in both the general workforce and senior management team. Jon Keeble has considerable experience in the recruitment industry, and primarily handles mandates relating to workers rights and entitlements, such as remote working, severance agreement negotiations, and navigating IR35, while Sinead Donnelly leverages her proficiency in litigation to act in breach of contract, unfair dismissal and discrimination cases. Nick Dent joined the practice in May 2022 from Locke Lord .
Practice head(s):
Joanne Frew
Other key lawyers:
Kirsty Rogers; Jon Keeble; Sinead Donnelly
Testimonials
‘The team is the most pragmatic employment advice team I have dealt with in over 30 years. Coupled with their ‘nothing is too much trouble’ approach they are extremely responsive to often urgent queries.’
‘Jon Keeble is extremely knowledgeable about the recruitment sector. He is calm, persistent, funny and reassuring, as well as being the most effective of all the lawyers i’ve worked with over the years.’
‘Jon Keeble is extremely knowledgeable both in terms of employment law, our industry and sectors and our practices across the group. He provides advice that is both sound and commercially viable.’
Key clients
Currys Plc
10X Technologies Services Ltd
Acacium Group
Nursing and Midwifery Council
Watkin Jones Group plc
Whitbread
Munnelly Group plc
adidas
Chrystal Consulting Limited
Finsbury Food Group plc
Newsquest Media Group
Lloyds of London
LJMU
Serco
Lifeways
Financial Times
Impellam
Chemring Group PLC
Elitetele.com plc
Work highlights
- Represent the Nursing & Midwifery Council, a professional regulatory body in relation to ongoing Tribunal and appeal proceedings in the EAT and Court of Appeal in a leading case which clarifies the law around mutuality of obligation for worker status.
- Advised a variety of clients on the off payroll working/IR35 legislation and matters arising in relation to employment status, including an increased level of IR35 analysis and indemnity coverage in M&A transactions.
- We have worked in collaboration with our colleagues in our European offices to provide cross border advice to clients on matters including TUPE transactions, DSAR requests, grievances, whistleblowing and discrimination claims.
e3 employment law LLP
An ‘exceptional‘ employment boutique firm offering top rate advice, e3 employment law LLP has had an impressive twelve months of client growth and increasing involvement in complex, international employment issues. The group is well geared to act on a variety of allegations and grievances in the Employment Tribunal cases, as well as advising global conglomerates on workplace compliance issues, mass employee and senior employee terminations, and cross-border contract negotiations. One of three practice heads, the ‘incredible’ Simon Ost has far-reaching expertise that is largely concentrated on sensitive litigation cases regarding whistleblowing, discrimination and unfair dismissal allegations. Dan Bickerstaffe is ‘outstanding‘, focusing on large-scale restructurings and TUPE transfer matters, working with a litany of clients across the retail, manufacturing and professional services industry, while the ‘pragmatic and commercial‘ Nick Jones handles a steady stream of senior employee termination and replacement mandates.
Practice head(s):
Simon Ost; Dan Bickerstaffe; Nick Jones
Testimonials
‘Being a small practice, it allows the development of long-term positive working relationships where the legal advisor gets to know the business. The advice provided is both thorough, detailed and pragmatic. They demonstrate flexibility in terms of liaising via telephone, Teams or in person and this is appreciated.’
‘Utterly focused on employment law. The team were big hitters in national and multinational firms before leaving to form e3. They bring a wealth of experience in their field. Being a boutique firm they are able to adapt quickly to a client’s needs where large firms may not be able to.’
‘Simon Ost an incredible analytical mind and an in-depth understanding of all the issues.’
Key clients
BASF plc
Elior UK plc
MAN Energy Solutions UK Limited
On The Beach Group plc
Perspex International Limited
Culina Group
Mitsubishi Chemical UK Limited
WEPA UK Limited
Leonard Curtis Business Solutions Group
Conductix-Wampfler
Service to the Aged
Work highlights
- Advised a stock exchange listed global giant on the employment aspects of preparing for and then executing a proposal to close a major UK production facility affecting hundreds of employees.
- Defended litigation seeking to change the UK’s legal interpretation of s146 of the Trade Union & Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 to expand the scope of the protections against detriment for union members to include strike activities.
- Defended a world leading hospitality and leisure sector business against a collective failure to inform and consult claim issued under the TUPE regulations by one of the UK’s most prominent trade unions.
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
Possessing a deep bench of practitioners which was further bolstered over 2022, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP is trusted by clients in the manufacturing, education, financial and professional services industries for the full range of employment matters. Beyond industrial action and trade union work, the firm has seen a marked increase in unfair dismissal and discrimination cases, worker status and rights issues, and significant global restructuring projects. Helming high-profile mandates for a number of sector giants, Paul Cotton‘s practice centres on corporate transaction-related employment issues, including, but not limited to, TUPE, redundancies, and executive terminations. Naeema Choudry leverages her established strength in litigation to act in Employment Tribunals, with recent cases including unfair dismissal, holiday pay and disability discrimination, while Robert Gray is the go-to advisor for the education sector. Jenny Mann works closely with financial services, TMT and utility clients to advise on executive departures, restrictive covenant and employee incentive and bonus schemes, whilst also being viewed as a cross-border specialist. Stephen Chegwin continues to be active in employment and labour litigation, alongside complex reoganisation and redundancy mandates.
Practice head(s):
Paul Cotton
Other key lawyers:
Naeema Choudry; Robert Gray; Jenny Mann; Stephen Chegwin
Testimonials
‘The team has an excellent mix of technically excellent lawyers that can deploy that knowledge effectively in a user friendly way. When you talk to them, you get the information you need in a way that allows you to implement or react to it.’
‘Jenny Mann is the star of the team. She is insightful, measured and committed. You know exactly where you are with her and what the likely outcomes are. She is very approachable, very user friendly and incredibly helpful. I always have complete faith in her advice and her handling of matters.’
‘Stephen Chegwin combines his very strong legal and interpersonal skills with his knowledge from his previous HR experience, making his advice particularly rounded.’
‘The employment practice is outstanding. Their ability to get to know our business is second to none. They have quickly established themselves as a trusted advisor and are recognised by our executive team as being able to handle any issues that arise in an efficient manner that ensures we are covered both legally and commercially.’
‘Naeema Choudry is a stand out partner and applies all of her talents to every case for which she is responsible.’
‘The depth of skill, knowledge and experience in the employment team is impressive, as is the professionalism in how matters are dealt with by the team members. The calibre of advice is excellent, as is client care.’
‘Gemma Rusling is the definition of a rising star – her personable, commercial, direct and knowledgable approach sets her apart from any other lawyer i’ve dealt with on employment matters. Gemma always meets the demands of our deadlines, is comfortable working directly with the business and has ultimately become an extension of our company.’
‘A genuine top tier employment practice with exposure to very good quality work which, in turn, continues the cycle of attracting and retaining very able individuals to service such quality work.’
Key clients
Warburtons Limited
United Utilities Group Plc
RPS Group Plc
Equality and Human Rights Commission
International Nuclear Services and Pacific Nuclear
Transport Limited
Sellafield
Dechra plc
Westminster University
University of Manchester
University of Central Lancashire
London South Bank University
Wigan & Leigh College
Loughborough University
Trafford College
West Midlands Trains Limited
Beaverbrooks
Bridgeway Consulting Limited
Go North East Limited
Hestia Housing & Support
JDR Capable Systems Limited
Global People UK Limited
Work highlights
Hill Dickinson LLP
Working with some of the largest public bodies across the nation, Hill Dickinson LLP‘s highly experienced team are active on high-profile, large scale employment matters. The sub-specialisms of the five senior department heads make the firm a strong choice for clients seeking sector specific expertise, with key work highlights over the past twelve months demonstrating notable activity in education, commercial and health related mandates. Jeff Middleton has a practice largely concentrated on senior executive issues, including departures, appointments and management disputes, whilst also fronting the firm’s most complex Employment Tribunal cases involving a range of unfair dismissal and discrimination claims. David Parry is ‘brilliant to work with’ and advises on employment matters arising out of mergers, acquisitions and employee movement activity, with particular expertise in breach of covenant claims, while the ‘exceptional’ Kerstie Skeaping, who heads and operates out of the firm’s Liverpool offering, focuses on business restructuring and reorganisation proceedings. Michael Wright and Luke Green provide trusted and expert counsel to health and education bodies respectively, with both individuals possessing established strength in the full range of employment issues. Caroline Prosser continues to be active on the standout matters.
Practice head(s):
Jeff Middleton; David Parry; Kerstie Skeaping; Michael Wright; Luke Green
Other key lawyers:
Caroline Prosser
Testimonials
‘They have great work, and do it in a collaborative and friendly manner.’
Caroline Prosser is one of the main team members we work with – she’s quick to respond, very professional and her knowledge of any query we have had has always been spot on. Kirstie Skeaping manages her team exceptionally, and we all feel the guidance and information we receive is first class. As a company we highly recommend them.’
‘Dave Parry is brilliant to work with and very attentive. Jeff Middleton is always enjoyable to work with and a great practitioner.’
Key clients
BBC
Co-op
Iceland Foods Limited
Frasers Plc
Stobart Rail Limited
Britvic Soft Drinks
Peel Group Management Limited
Redde Northgate plc
The Book Service (Penguin Random House)
The Charity Commission
Grant Thornton UK LLP
dnata Travel (part of Emirates Group)
Health Education England
NHS England & Improvement
Liverpool Heart and Chest NHS Foundation Trust
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
University Hospital of Derby and Burton
Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust
Cheshire & Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
Trilanco Limited
Vynova
GEFCO UK
Arrow XL
Myriad Genetics
Work highlights
- Successfully defended University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust against complex claims of race and disability discrimination and unfair dismissal.
- Advised Redwood TTM on the post-Brexit legalities of engaging an employee who would live and work in Croatia and drafting a suitable employment contract reflecting employment law and taxation issues from both a UK and Croatian perspective.
- Designing and delivering an online employment law training programme for St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, which has been rolled out to thousands of managers.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Complex company restructures and reorganisations form the cornerstone of the employment practice at Pinsent Masons LLP. Beyond conventional legal work including Employment Tribunal cases and TUPE transfers, the firm show a strong understanding regarding diversity and inclusivity matters, including advising on the legal terms and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in a workplace environment. Whilst intimately familiar with a number of sectors, team head Neil Black works particularly closely with manufacturing and infrastructure clients, counselling on executive departures, whistleblowing and discrimination claims, and also industrial relations. Kate Dodd continues to handle a steady stream of Covid-19 related mandates which include highly contentious Employment Tribunal cases, as well as complex and highly sensitive employee grievance disputes. Rob Childe‘s work with educational bodies bolsters the department’s wider sector expertise, with his strong understanding of transgender and non-binary rights ensuring he is increasingly sought out by clients. Elsewhere, Jessica Davies regularly supports businesses in the financial services on the full range of employment matters, while Laura Starrett provides astute knowledge to a wealth of companies.
Practice head(s):
Neil Black; Helen Corden
Other key lawyers:
Kate Dodd; Rob Childe; Jessica Davies; Laura Starrett
Testimonials
‘The team in Pinsent Masons is excellent. They have got to know our business and visited the site in person. They are strong on diversity & inclusion. They take a pragmatic approach and operate in line with our values.’
‘The team have strong, pragmatic values and are easy to work with.’
Key clients
Wincanton plc
Jaguar Land Rover
Mondelez International (formerly Cadbury / Kraft)
ITP Aero
Costain plc
Arqiva
Weetabix
Morgan Sindall plc
Adient Inc
Cellnex
St. Modwen
NHBC
Work highlights
- Worked with AEGON this year as its global D&I partner on a range of assignments designed to support the implementation of their global Inclusion strategy.
- Assisted St. Modwen to devise and implement a diversity strategy that would improve female representation across the business.
- Advised GN Hearing on its decision to close its UK manufacturing and distribution operation.
Squire Patton Boggs
A global law firm with roots in the North West dating back to 1886, Squire Patton Boggs advises on big-ticket employment mandates for both regional corporate leaders and international conglomerates. The department is increasingly involved in high-profile investigatory work, most recently collaborating with the firm’s Government Investigations & White Collar team to probe allegations pertaining to whistleblowing, discrimination and data breaches within companies operating in the financial and professional services sectors. Beyond this work, the team is routinely sought out by clients for its expertise in executive departures and incentive schemes, corporate-related employment issues, and cross-border proficiency. Global head and Manchester-based Alison Treliving regularly advises on complex restructuring and TUPE transfer mandates, while also being well-regarded for her ability to handle employee grievance cases. Bryn Doyle leads the firm’s most complicated and vast employment investigation work, and is also a trusted counsellor to both UK and international clients in the retail industry. Jane Saunders is highly active on equal pay disputes as well as possessing established expertise in industrial relations issues, whereas James Pike‘s broad practice is largely focused on large scale restructuring processes and National Minimum Wage concerns, for which he heads the firm’s specialist team.
Practice head(s):
Alison Treliving; Bryn Doyle
Other key lawyers:
Jane Saunders; James Pike
Testimonials
‘We rely on Bryn Doyle’s extremely capable team for all of our UK employment tribunal work. This is handled with the utmost skill, efficiency and pragmatism, and in such a way that allows us to manage costs effectively. The team consistently delivers excellent results for us and we couldn’t feel in safer hands.’
‘The Squire Patton Boggs employment team have a natural aptitude at providing credible and commercial advice to our team at all times. Through a longstanding relationship built over a number of years, they have taken the time to truly understand our business and needs and have come to know our team well.’
‘Alison Treviling provides pragmatic support to us and is incredibly client focused.’
‘James Pike has an excellent approach to employment litigation and strikes a clear balance between risk and commerciality. He is not afraid to hold us to account as the client which is greatly appreciated and helps us to make appropriate decisions.’
Key clients
Tesco Stores Ltd
EU Automation
Veolia
Princes Limited
Burberry Limited
Coca-Cola European Partners
TransUnion
Grass Valley
Ribble Cycles
Peel L & P
BDO Services Limited
Ineos
Molson Coors
CBRE
Sweco
Roadchef
Work highlights
- Advised a global environmental business on a number of industrial relations disputes during the year.
- Acted for Doncaster Sheffield Airport Limited on the employment law aspects of the airport’s closure.
- Advised a global media company its approach to the engagement of self-employed consultants/contractors across a number of different jurisdictions within Europe.
Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard has recently handled a significant volume of big-ticket project work and litigation, including workforce transfers between retail giants and overseeing the full range of employment issues for a multinational distribution company. The team also excel at cross-border compliance work, regularly advising global businesses on UK employment law and compliance, visa and sponsorship proceedings, and ad hoc immigration advice. A department head with extensive experience, Michael Burns has a broad contentious and non contentious practice, and is highly capable handling complex TUPE transfers, defending tribunal claims, and supporting HR and legal teams. Sajida Hussain‘s expertise bolsters the group’s business immigration offering and has a strong understanding of EU and UK regulations, sponsorship protocols, and the implications of Brexit. Kate McGough specialises in the transfer of employees and other employment-based issues relating to mergers and acquisitions.
Practice head(s):
Michael Burns
Other key lawyers:
Sajida Hussain; Kate McGough
Testimonials
‘I appreciated the depth and breadth of team. Strategically our needs were led at the right level, with junior lawyers supporting at every step of the way. The team also had a great tech platform where we could monitor progress.’
‘An experienced employment law team at AG who are highly responsive, offer deep and commercially-driven expertise, and are able to draw on a wide area of specialists. They are well connected across multiple jurisdictions and can therefore act as a one-stop-shop for multinational corporations.’
‘Superb client care sets AG apart. Responsive, swift, commercially focused, respecting our corporate values and brand identity. True advisory companions for clients.’
Key clients
AJ Bell Plc
Co-operative Group Limited
Wigan Metropolitan Borough Council
Sysco GB comprising Brake Bros, Fresh Direct, Medina and Kent Frozen Foods
Work highlights
- Advised on the disposal of the c132 site petrol filling station business and associated convenience retail outlets of Co-operative Group to Asda Stores Limited.
- Appointed as the sole employment law provider for the entire group in the UK and Europe. As well as advising the HR team on employment and immigration matters, Employment Tribunals, settlement agreements and major projects, the team also provides an employee relations helpline to circa 850 line managers.
- Advising the Council on its competitive dialogue procurement for a fully-managed IT service which will encompass the Council’s technological requirements over the next 8 – 10 years.
Analysis Legal LLP
Praised by a plethora of businesses for its client focused and pragmatic advice, Analysis Legal LLP boasts a roster of blue-chip national and international clients for which it conducts a broad range of contentious and non-contentious employment work. Of late, the team has been particularly active in complex, multifaceted Employment Tribunal claims, with the ‘commercial, risk-based and practical’ team head Anna Lees taking the lead on a large proportion of these matters. Co-head Andrea Paxton is a go-to for senior executive departures and hires, as well as redundancy, TUPE and IR35 advice. Sheila Shaw ensures she is regularly sought by clients for her expertise in conducting internal investigations on behalf of businesses pertaining to grievances and disciplinary issues, while Catherine Parkinson is a talented litigator, regularly conducting her own advocacy. Kate Oberg provides pragmatic advice to companies in a variety of sectors, with established strength in matters regarding dismissal and discrimination claims, holiday pay, and employee contracts. Jessica Jones joined the practice as a senior consultant from DWF in September 2022.
Practice head(s):
Anna Lees; Andrea Paxton
Other key lawyers:
Sheila Shaw; Kate Oberg; Catherine Parkinson; Jessica Jones
Testimonials
‘The firm is very attentive and accommodating to clients. They have a real personal touch and keep the clients’ needs at the centre of everything they do. They are also very collaborative in how they work.’
‘Catherine Parkinson is outstanding. She always makes the time, makes the effort, and makes the difference. Work is delivered on time, every time, and so professionally done.’
‘I also love the fact that Catherine Parkinson is always ready to talk by phone as well as communicate through email. Billing and fees are clearly explained and easy to settle.’
Key clients
Optima Health & Social Care Ltd
Peak15
Co-operative Group Limited
Champion Insurance Group Limited
Credico
Ceramtec UK Limited
Stoke City Council
ESUK Aerospace and Simulation Limited
Brazil Street
Alpla UK Limited
Incommunities Limited
Waterfields (Leigh) Limited
Weaver Vale Housing Trust
Families for Children
Community Health Partnerships
Dechra Pharmaceuticals
Luna Investment Management
MDS Global Ltd
Total Fleet UK Limited
Eddie Stobart Limited
BEP Surface Technologies Limited
Caddick Construction (NW) Limited
Nuvia Limited
Safran Nacelles Limited
Raisin UK Limited
Langtree Property Partners Limited
Sigmatex (UK) Ltd
Mexichem UK Limited
Handepay Limited
S2 Blue Limited
Work highlights
Bramhalls Solicitors
Boutique employment firm Bramhalls Solicitors fields a deep bench of seasoned practitioners, acting almost exclusively for employers on the full range of matters. In addition to possessing notable expertise in litigation, the group is also regularly sought by clients for in-house counsel, including employment law training, advice regarding employee data rights and data breaches, and aiding the negotiation of both junior and senior contracts. Furthermore, the team has noted an uptick in work regarding industrial relations and pay discussions within private companies. Spearheading the practice is Phil Bramhall, who is a go-to by clients for sensitive and complicated matters including senior executive departures, equal pay and discrimination claims, and reputational issues. Complex Employment Tribunal cases form the cornerstone of Rehan Pasha‘s practice, who also possesses established strength in large scale redundancy and restructuring mandates. John Hassells is chiefly noted for his niche proficiency understanding data protection issues, routinely counselling HR departments in-house, as well as wielding a wealth of experience in whistleblowing and restrictive covenant disputes. Helen Owen has a broad contentious and non-contentious practice that includes ad hoc advice to clients regarding redundancies, equal pay and reputation damage mitigation.
Practice head(s):
Phil Bramhall
Other key lawyers:
Rehan Pasha; John Hassells; Helen Owen
Testimonials
‘The Bramhalls team offer pragmatic and clear advice. The team are always on hand to offer a friendly, approachable service. Whenever I pick up the phone, I know I will speak to someone who knows and cares about my business and has taken the time to get to know us.’
‘The two key individuals who I work with at Bramhalls are Rehan Pasha and Helen Owen. Both are highly knowledgeable in their field, and I have always found their advice to be pragmatic and commercially focused.’
‘Helen Owen offers a fantastic service – she is responsive and provides a range of sensible solutions that cut through the issue we are dealing with. Her advice is pragmatic, wise and commercially minded. We have developed a great relationship, and she is a great support.’
Key clients
Poundstretcher Limited
Stanley Black and Decker UK Limited
Edge Hill University
Cheshire College South and West
GreenThumb
PD Ports
The Billington Group
Chester Race Company Limited
Portmeirion
RSK Group
Autism Together
The British Association for Shooting and Conservation
Reaseheath College
Nynas UK
The Contact Company
Kronospan
Hope House Children’s Hospice
Surface Technology International Limited
Bolton Lads and Girls Club
CSM Ingredients
TXM Plant Limited
NRG Riverside Limited
Warrington and Vale Royal College
Salons Direct
NWTC
Baker and Baker
Work highlights
- Successfully defended a £340,000 claim brought against Edge Hill University concerning complex allegations of disability discrimination and constructive unfair dismissal.
- Secured the withdrawal of a complex and high value disability discrimination claim for JWG Survey and Engineering Limited.
- Acting for a large logistics company in the renegotiation of contracts for all senior executives due to structural board review.
Forbes Solicitors
Forbes Solicitors has seen an uptick in investigation and litigation work, especially from clients in the education and housing sector. Multi-layered discrimination claims continue to be the backbone of the workload, alongside whistleblowing, Covid-19 issues, health and safety concerns, and equal pay and holiday pay disputes. National head Jonathan Holden is highly trusted by education and public sector clients, undertaking a near unparalleled range of work with local authorities pertaining to ad hoc employment advice and complex tribunal claims. Emma Swan is the head of commercial employment and has vast expertise in redundancy processes, TUPE transfers, and contracts and pay negotiations, routinely advising trusted clients on all these issues as part of ongoing ad-hoc support. Public Sector lead Ruth Rule-Mullen handles a steady stream of investigatory and tribunal claim mandates, with recent work highlights including probing historic allegations of bullying and harassment, whistleblowing and disciplinary allegations. Jennifer Smith has been active on matters relating to company mergers and acquisitions, while Amy Stokes has been involved in mandates regarding the movement of skilled workers, senior employee dismissals, and the progressing clients’ equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives. Andrew Halpin continues to be integral to practice operations. Laura McHugh joined from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in April 2022.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Holden; Emma Swan; Ruth Rule-Mullen
Other key lawyers:
Jennifer Smith; Laura McHugh; Andrew Halpin; Amy Stokes
Testimonials
‘I have been super impressed with the quality of advice provided and the personal touch applied in dealing with our case. At every stage we felt like we had the best partner beside us to deal with our case.’
‘We have enjoyed working with Emma Swan and the team as they are proactive and always provide solutions which identify the key risks and benefits associated with decisions. The passion for employment law and HR is evident in the way they work.’
‘Forbes take time to really get to know your business, how it operates and what drives the company. They offer tailor made solutions to your issues whilst ensuring you stay compliant to current legislation. They offer different options to suit your business need.’
Key clients
Accrol Papers Ltd
Acis Housing
Alexander Dennis Limited
Alexander Dennis Limited
Arcon Housing
Association of Public Service Excellence
Bachy Soletanche Limited
BBF Ltd
Blackburn College
Blackburn with Darwen Council
Bolton School
Boohoo Group Plc
Boohoo.com
Bright Blue Foods Limited
Brookhouse Aerospace Ltd
Calday Grange School
Chaigeley
Chesnara plc
Chorley Borough Council and South Ribble Borugh Council
Cidari
Community First Academy Trust
Corpus Christi
Crescent Purchasing Consortium
Doncaster Council
Dunstone Academy
EcoRenew
Edapt
Education Partnership Trust
Farmhouse Biscuits
Fusion Risk Management
GA Pet Food Partners Ltd
Gilpin Lodge Country House Hotel Limited
Great Places Housing
Henri Lloyd
Herts for Learning
Hill Biscuits Ltd
Hyde Housing
Ian Rotheram
ICare Limited
ICO
James’ Places/Bowland Brewery
Kent Commercial Services
Kepak Group Limited
Lancashire County Council
Lancashire Renewables Ltd
Leamington County Primary School
Leeds Federated Housing
Lincolnshire Homes Partnerships
Lostock Hall Academy
Magawell
Mylnhurst Prep School
Northcote Hotels
Olive Tree Primary School
Parbold Douglas
Pavement Testing Services Ltd
Peaks and Plains
Pelta Medical Papers
Pendle Education Trust
Penwortham Priory
Preston City Council
Preston College
Profile Financial Solutions
Progress Housing Group
Romero Catholic Academy Trust
Sea View Trust
Shaunaks
South Lakes Hotels Limited
South Lakes Housing
South Ribble / Chorley Council
South Yorkshire Housing Association
Special Project Resources Limited
Telford and Wrekin Council
The Gilpin Lodge Country House Hotel
True Learning Partnership
Vector Recruitment Limited
West Kirby School & College
Wyre Borough Council
Zest Academy Trust
Mason Advisory Limited
Glasgows Limited
Bainbridge Electrical Limited
Jetchem Systems Limited
Keep Britain Tidy
The Pentelow Practice Limited t/a Pentelow Wealth
Management
RaceFX Limited
Vita Safety Limited
Walmsleys Commercial Ltd
St Catherine’s Hospice
Work highlights
- Provided strategic advice and conducted independent investigations into allegations of bullying and harassment.
- Advised and successfully represented client at Tribunal in relation to jurisdictional issues for an unfair dismissal and discrimination claim.
- Advised on the proposed closure of a factory, including the overall approach and strategy, together with support throughout the redundancy collective consultation process.
Gateley Legal
Possessing an impressive roster of clients operating in the sport, transport and logistics, food and drink, retail and financial services sectors, Gateley Legal engages in substantial employment projects alongside in-house training and support with large corporates. Often collaborating with its experienced colleagues in the commercial department, the team also regularly advise on employee contractual matters arising from mergers and acquisitions, TUPE transfers, and IR35 issues. Chris Thompson has an extensive contentious and non-contentious practice and has been particularly active in Covid-19 and pay entitlement Employment Tribunal claims and senior executive dismissals, while also wielding a wealth of knowledge regarding compliance and risk management. Avril England is highly experienced in the health sector, regularly undertaking investigatory work on behalf of employers and complex cross-border mandates. Emma Butterworth specialises in both contract drafting and negotiations and UK regulatory compliance, while Lorna Harris is principally noted for her acumen defending whistleblowing, discrimination and unfair dismissal claims.
Practice head(s):
Chris Thompson
Other key lawyers:
Avril England; Emma Butterworth; Lorna Harris
Testimonials
‘Gateleys are different to my previous experiences with solicitors. They are welcoming, friendly, they explain without jargon. They are always available and respond without chasing. They check their invoices are ok with you before sending them.’
‘I have dealt with Chris Thompson who has such excellent client service. He goes above and beyond and his knowledge in their field of law is excellent.’
Key clients
Europcar Group UK Limited
Palatine Private Equity LLP
Sdiptech AB
Ardonagh Group (Atlanta Division)
Peacocks Stores
British Medical Association
The Big Table Group Limited
Asahi UK Limited
Bilfinger Industrial Services (UK) Limited
TimpsonLimited
BK UK Limited (Burger King)
Work highlights
- Provided all employment support on the majority acquisition of Skills Pharma (Alliance) Limited by Project Thunder Bidco Limited (a new entity funded by Palatine Private Equity LLP (investing through its managed funds).
- Defended claims by two employees that commission should have been included in their furlough pay under the CRJS scheme.
- Defending claims by a senior executive who resigned after the company was successfully acquired by a private equity firm. The claims involve complex restrictive covenants as well as disputes relating to the executive holding shares within the client.
JMW Solicitors LLP
Boasting an impressive twelve months of both senior and junior hires, JMW Solicitors LLP has a strong bench of practitioners to advise on a wide range of employment matters, with particular specialism in the recruitment and hospitality sectors. Alongside a growing volume of litigation work, particularly whistleblowing claims, the group has an impressive track record in matters pertaining to regulatory compliance, business restructurings and reorganisations, and pensions. Team head Paul Chamberlain has an astute understanding of worker’s rights and regulations, guiding companies through pay and holiday requirements and labour abuses, while Simon Bloch‘s knowledge of the recruitment sector is nationally recognised, and he regularly advising on Agency Worker’s Regulations and restrictive covenant disputes. Marcus Difelice is chiefly noted for his impressive Employment Tribunal work. In 2022, partners Julian Richards and Ikram Malik joined the practice from Shoosmiths LLP and Aaron & Partners LLP respectively.
Practice head(s):
Paul Chamberlain
Other key lawyers:
Simon Bloch; Marcus Difelice
Testimonials
‘The team are very knowledgeable in all areas of employment law.’
‘The team including Paul Chamberlain and Simon Bloch work with us on an ongoing basis. They are always on hand for advise and to share their knowledge when required.’
Key clients
Telecom Plus (Utility Warehouse)
Travelodge Hotels
The Restaurant Group plc
Wagamama
Nando’s
U & I Group plc
British Medical Association
Access Advertising Marketing & Design Limited
Honest Burgers
Utility Warehouse (Telecom Plus plc
Work highlights
- Appointed to the BMA’s legal panel to provide support to its members on employee relations matters. The BMA has more than 170,000 members and is the professional body and trade union for doctors.
- Currently undertaking the legal side of an audit addressing the number of significant legal issues affecting the recruitment sector, including compliance with holiday and holiday pay minimum requirement.
- Represented NFamily Holdings (a large chain of children’s nurseries) in their application for a sponsor licence in the Skilled Worker category which was approved by the Home Office as a priority.
Kuit Steinart Levy LLP
A trusted advisor to a litany of clients in the leisure, sports, hospitality and education sector, Kuit Steinart Levy LLP excels at employment litigation, acting in both sensitive and complex discrimination and whistleblowing matters, and civil litigation pertaining breach of contract and pay discrepancy allegations. In addition, the firm handles a steady stream of mandates from companies on retainer, including advising on TUPE transfers, redundancy proceedings, senior executive exits, and data protection matters. The team is steered by the highly experienced Kevin McKenna, who is chiefly noted for his expertise in technical matters such as national minimum wage and unequal pay issues, as well as his ability to competently advise on employment contracts, employee grievances, and disciplinary issues. Boardroom-centred matters form the cornerstone of Sally Bird‘s practice, and she is routinely involved in stakeholder, contractual, and restrictive covenant disputes, in addition to senior executive departures and arrivals. The ‘helpful and knowledgeable’ Mark McKeating is highly active in diverse and multilayered Employment Tribunal claims alongside large scale TUPE and restructuring projects. Elsewhere, Claire Hollins has been particularly involved in the leisure industry, with key work highlights including advising on gender and disability discrimination, while Claire Treacy has engaged with ad-hoc HR guidance alongside TUPE and restrictive covenant issues.
Other key lawyers:
Sally Bird; Mark McKeating; Claire Hollins; Claire Treacy
Testimonials
‘Kuits, although smaller than other firms we worked with, provided a more comprehensive service. We have found them extremely responsive, personable, approachable and forward thinking. What makes the team unique is their eagerness to understand our culture.’
‘Kevin McKenna heads the team, and we have worked with him for a number of years. He is both pragmatic and accessible. Claire Hollins is super-responsive and provides relevant advice in an efficient manner. Mark McKeating and Claire Treacey are always helpful and knowledgeable.’
‘Potential clients would quickly realise that Kuits brings together talented individuals into a team which is greater than the sum of its parts. We use Kuits in preference to any other firm because of its expertise, commercial nous, and stand-out efficiency in communicating.’
‘Kevin McKenna is forensically astute, technically and tactically aware with an intuitive grasp of all facets of a problem. All you want from a solicitor in this field.’
‘A very strong team; we use them as a firm for our own employment matters, and also work with them on behalf of our own clients who require employment support. They are proactive in providing training and client outreach. Lawyers in the team are particularly responsive to enquiries, turning around work quickly and efficiently.’
‘I have worked with Sally Bird for many years. She is very pleasant, professional, experienced and we have built up a good working relationship. Having consistency is very important to a business and Sally knows our business very well and the issues that we face. She has supported us through some tough times, giving sound advice and direction.’
‘Its uniqueness derives from being in touch with the latest legislation and how that information is communicated in a usable way. Kuits have a very proactive style in which they support a business, always placing the client at the centre of what they do. They have the ability to react quickly to any given situation, providing instant answers, providing a level of legal confidence. Importantly they communicate in a language that is understood and guide consistently.’
‘Our primary contact and partner is Mark McKeating. Mark is always extremely responsive, adaptable and an expert in his field. Mark always offers considered advice with a balance of commercial awareness, risk and cultural impact. Mark and his team are very keen to understand our culture, what our priorities are and what challenges we face as an organisation- rather than just a specific case.’
Key clients
Auto Trader
Crown Oil Limited
STADA UK Holdings Ltd (Thornton & Ross Limited/Natures Aid/ NextGEN360 Limited)
Handl Group
Harnbury Holdings Limited (trading as San Carlo restaurants)
Maersk Line UK
Mission Mars
Salford City Football Club
Salford Red Devils Rugby League Club
Turtle Bay Hospitality Limited
BGEN Ltd
Clarity Travel Limited
Danish Crown N
Lyreco UK Limited
Work highlights
Myerson Solicitors
Myerson Solicitors‘s strong commercial offering is complimented by its experienced employment team which deals with a variety of corporate support work, including transactions, asset share agreements, and TUPE transfers. The firm is regularly singled out for its wealth of expertise in senior executive departures, including drafting complex settlement and exit packages, as well as post-termination restriction guidance, whilst litigation continues to be a high proportion of the work generated for the team. Department head Joanne Evans provides exceptional advice to clients on a whole breadth of employment issues, regularly provide all-encompassing counsel to trusted and longstanding clients pertaining to redundancies, restructurings, and boardroom disputes. Joanne Henderson has considerable Employment Tribunal experience and has also been a main driver behind the practice’s growing activity in compliance work, including GDPR, modern slavery and gender pay gap reporting and audits. Charlotte Gilbert draws superlative praise from a range of clients highlighting her technical expertise and outstanding attention to detail, which is continually sought out by corporates engaging in large-scale restructurings and reorganisations.
Practice head(s):
Joanne Evans
Other key lawyers:
Joanne Henderson; Charlotte Gilbert
Testimonials
‘The firm provides a customer focus service. They provide general employment law updates and advice into our business on a tailored basis, and provide specific advice to a range of circumstances.’
‘The personal relationship and having a key contact at the firm. Not only do you have a key contact per department, but also at the firm overall. They also are a integral part of the community, holding events and being invited to these as part of networking is not only fun but also worthwhile.’
‘Myerson’s is small enough to be able to form personal relationships with the solicitors, yet large enough that they can provide an excellent and knowledgeable service. They have good relationships with Counsel in different areas and are able to recommend individuals for cases.’
‘Joanne Henderson was very professional and supportive in an employment dispute. Her responses were always clear and professional setting out the pros and cons of the relevant elements of the dispute.’
‘Charlotte Gilbert gives very commercial and pragmatic employment advice. She happily meets very tight deadlines and is a useful ear and sounding board when needed on confidential and complex issues.’
‘Charlotte Gilbert was outstanding in my dealings with her. Authentic, honest and empathic, I would highly recommend.’
‘The team were exceptional in understanding what was a complex matter, they utilised their knowledge of the law and technologies to support the case and ultimately their collaborative effort led to a successful result.’
‘Joanne Evans is very knowledgeable and has a clear vision on the road map of litigation and understands what is important to her clients. I would highly recommend Joanne and the team for its exceptional service.’
Key clients
AQA
Eastern Airways
Gladman Developments Limited
Humberside Airport
Joseph Holt
Kverneland
Lowry Theatre
Matillion Limited
Royal Exchange Theatre
Stax Trade Centres
TATA Chemicals
Travel Counsellors
Work highlights
Pannone Corporate LLP
A key point of differentiation for Pannone Corporate LLP is its expertise in bespoke employment management training, including upskilling training programmes and conducting mock Employment Tribunals, alongside its investigation offering which has probed allegations of abuse, harassment and discrimination. The firm also leverages an extensive list of clients in the care sector, advising on employee transfers, settlement agreements and claims of unfair dismissal over the past twelve months. A recently qualified mediator, Jack Harrington leads the team and has been extremely active in TUPE matters, as well as defending a variety of large, multifaceted tribunal claims. Fiona Hamor has a broad contentious and non contentious practice, with notable expertise in discrimination and equal pay matters, while newly promoted associate partner Michael McNally has been a key figure in the department’s investigatory and upskilling mandates. Radhika Das engages with the full range of team matters, from investigations and tribunal claims, to drafting ancillary documents and conducting due diligence.
Practice head(s):
Jack Harrington
Other key lawyers:
Fiona Hamor; Michael McNally; Radhika Das
Testimonials
‘We work with Pannone on difficult employment matters, TUPE transfers and more recently for pension advice on admission agreements to GMPF. Their expertise and ability to quickly translate information into pragmatic solutions is second to none.’
‘Our primary contact is Mr Jack Harrington. He always ensures that we obtain the best possible advice and service, even when deadlines have to be met. His attitude is first class and this trait has been passed on to our other contact Radhika Das.’
‘Fiona Hamor is our key contact and has been for several years. She has supported several very complex cases and is always quick to respond and gives excellent and considered advice. She understands our business and some of the difficulties we face and applies this when giving advice.’
‘Pannone Corporate LLP are a very professional team who always meet our expectations. They provide an exceptional service, always offering sound advice and have a strong knowledge of our business which has been built up over a number of years.’
‘Jack Harrington and Fiona Hamor can always be trusted to be available when you need them most on complicated cases. Their support is excellent. Radhika Das support us with all ER matters and the service provided is fantastic.’
‘I mainly deal with Michael McNally; Michael aims to respond within twenty-four hours which is invaluable as we often get queries that need an urgent response.’
‘The team provide very prompt advice on any escalated queries and the advice they provide is balanced and comprehensive. We have built a strong relationship with the whole team and no matter what the issue, any of them can be approached and you can trust that if it is not their area of expertise they will liaise with the subject expert within the team before providing advice.’
‘The team are incredibly supportive and keep you up to date with anything they are dealing with on your behalf in a timely manner. Their employment law knowledge is fantastic, and they present this in a simple yet effective way.’
Key clients
Select Service Partner UK Limited (SSP)
Rail Gourmet Limited
HMSHost
Chevron Energy Limited
The Big Life Group
Victim Support
SMG Europe Holdings Limited (operators of the Manchester Arena and the Bridgewater Hall)
Represent Clothing Limited
Lingoda GmbH
The Lowry
Work highlights
- Advised on the employment aspects of its acquisition of Amberstone Security.
- Acting in relation to claims relating to dismissals connected to the ‘no jab, no job’ principle.
TLT
TLT fields an impressive roster of clients active in the retail, leisure, financial services, engineering, manufacturing and logistics industries, advising on a broad range of employment-related issues. The team is a frequent port of call for strategic HR and employment advice, with a large proportion of the firm’s employment work generated as offshoots from clients’ mergers and acquisitions. In addition to this ongoing counsel, the team possess established strength in whistleblowing and discrimination claims, unfair dismissal cases, large scale restructuring mandates, and equal pay disputes. Ed Cotton leverages over twenty years of legal experience to competently address commercial-related employment issues and is also highly regarded for his proficiency in non-contentious matters, such as employee contracts, benefits and incentives. Liz Cotton is well-reputed for her ability to confidently handle restructuring and reorganisation mandates, while possessing strong expertise in TUPE transfers and executive departures. Both lawyers are also highly experienced in employee grievance claims.
Practice head(s):
Liz Cotton; Ed Cotton
Testimonials
‘The team is very commercial and have made every effort to fully comprehend the complexities of our businesses. It is the people who make TLT the success it is, they work collaboratively with us at every step. They are extremely knowledgable in employment law and if there is any forthcoming case or legislation they think may impact upon our business, they ensure we are fully aware.’
‘Ed Cotton stands out as the key person at TLT, he is an excellent solicitor which is why we have continued to use Ed over the years. Ed is particularly personable and makes himself available any time of the day or night to assist and advise.’
Key clients
Boohoo Group PLC
TJ Morris Limited t/a Home Bargains
Finning UK & Ireland Limited
Alstom
Servoca plc
Movianto UK Limited
University of Central Lancashire
4Fashions Ltd
Keolis Amey Metrolink
Zeus Capital Limited
Nichols plc
Work highlights
- Provide regular strategic employment and HR advice to Home Bargains across the UK and defend them in relation to employment tribunal litigation.
- Advise 4 Fashions Ltd in relation to a variety of employment related issues.
- Provide employment law support to KeolisAmey Metrolink, a high-profile company which runs the Manchester tram network.
Weightmans LLP
Fielding a highly regarded and deep bench of experienced practitioners, Weightmans LLP is chiefly noted for its impressive work in the public sector, working for a plethora of healthcare, policing, distribution and local governmental bodies on a wide range of employment matters. The team is fronted by national head Ben Daniel and the Manchester-centred Nick Newman, who is seasoned at negotiating claim settlements that pertain to equal pay, holiday pay and employee rights. Stephen Peacock has been a key figure in the firm’s strong stream of tribunal cases, defending particularly complex claims in the education and law enforcement sectors, while Emlyn Williams is a trusted contact to the NHS, representing them in significant unfair dismissal, whistleblowing and discrimination claims. Beyond his work as a strategic adviser to a variety of companies, Ian Pace‘s broad practice includes leading disciplinary investigations on behalf of employers, as well as having strong expertise in TUPE transfers and high-profile litigation. Saira Ali joined from Law by Design Limited in 2022 and has led large scale restructuring and redundancy matters.
Practice head(s):
Ben Daniel; Nick Newman
Other key lawyers:
Ian Pace; Emlyn Williams; Stephen Peacock; Saira Ali
Testimonials
‘The team all have expert knowledge of employment law matters and are able to balance risk with commercial appetite when delivering advice. Advice is provided in a clear and timely manner, and I am always able to talk with someone when I need to.’
‘Ian Pace has taken time to get to know the organisation and the HR Team here. He’s personable, as is his team. Ian will take time to discuss options and in doing so will quantify any risks that enable informed decisions to be taken that keep the organisation as safe as possible.’
‘Overall a strong employment team, who make themselves readily available to the client. The team make it a priority to understand the core business, priorities and overall strategy, ensuring they have the relevant context for providing advice.’
‘The team are approachable and knowledgeable. They are always responsive and contactable. Their guidance is sound and wise.’
‘This is the best firm that I have dealt with and we have received a high quality service for many years. The Team are very friendly, knowledgeable and efficient. The team is very responsive with a broad knowledge of our sector.’
‘My main contact is Ian Pace and I cannot fault him. I have a great deal of experience working with employment solicitors at other firms in previous roles and Ian stands out by a mile. He is responsive, knows the sector inside out and is always commercially aware in his responses.’
Key clients
NHS England & NHS Improvement
The Lowry Hotel Limited
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
Swissport GB Ltd
Royal Mail Group Ltd
Torus Group
The Placement Group
BARDOC Limited
The Merchant Taylors’ School
Beacon GP Care Limited
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Liverpool University
Exertis UK Ltd
Regenda Group
The Active Learning Trust (Multi-Academy Trust)
Clarion Housing Group
Chief Constable of Merseyside Police
Office of Nuclear Regulation
Colas Ltd
Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Work highlights
- Successfully represented the trust in significant unfair dismissal and whistleblowing claims that also involved lawyers making a successful appeal to the Employment Appeal Tribunal.
- The team represented 400 former employees bringing claims following the collapse of Carillion.
- Represented Academy Trusts as panel solicitors in the defence of Employment Tribunal litigation, recently defending an Academy Trust in a high-profile claim of religious discrimination relating to a Christian Pastor’s online comments on Gay Pride.
Aaron & Partners LLP
A ‘superb’ employment team which is widely praised by clients for its in-house management training offering that includes mock tribunals, Aaron & Partners LLP is active in a number of sectors advising on the full range of employment issues. The department is led by Helen Watson, an experienced individual with a broad contentious and non-contentious practice that includes, but is not limited to, representing clients in complex unfair dismissal, discrimination and breach of contract claims, addressing GDPR queries. and guiding clients through collective redundancy processes. Claire Brook handles senior executive departure mandates alongside being regularly sought out by retainer clients for compliance advice, contract reviews and regulatory updates, while Adam Haines has been involved in large-scale workforce restructuring matters for global companies, in addition to other mandates. Paul Hennity has been particularly active in Employment Tribunal proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Helen Watson
Other key lawyers:
Claire Brook; Adam Haines; Paul Hennity
Testimonials
‘Great HR training and legislation updates which are timely, well run and provide excellent networking opportunities. Partners take an interest in their client’s business and culture and are available for advice at training events.’
‘The due diligence and research required to understand the complexities of what we as a company provide was crucial. Through discussion, a team of employment lawyers really took the time to fully understand the company, its terminology and how it all worked, along with the risks involved if it did not work correctly. We could not have won our case without them!’
‘I had engaged with other firms in the North West area prior to employing Aarons, and my assessment after initial consultations was quite correct. Aarons did what they said they would do (and more). Highly professional, and worked tirelessly to win the eventual case.’
‘Adam Haines is reliable, practical and a real pleasure to work with. He did such a great job working with my HR colleagues that I was able to step out of most of the calls and discussions and trust that they were in good hands. The down side of that was that I missed working directly with him!’
‘Claire Brook (Partner) quickly deals with queries or assigns them to an appropriate colleague. She clearly outlines the various options available to solve an issue and the related potential risks and costs.’
‘We work closely with Helen Watson and Paul Hennity. They understand our business and are like an extension of our team. We share the same values and can talk openly and honestly.’
‘My business has instructed Adam Haines on employment issues. He is super-responsive and gives calm and pragmatic advice. I would highly recommend him.’
Key clients
Sovini Group / Sovini Property Services Limited
Wirral Chamber of Commerce Limited
The Learning Trust (Multi Academy Trust)
Special Needs Care Limited
Clogau Gold of Wales Limited
Imagine Independence
Textlocal Limited
Evans Textile (Sales) Limited & Group
Ysgol Bryn Elian
North of England Zoological Society
Work highlights
- Represented nearly 600 claimants pursuing protective award claims against four insolvent employers (Greensill Capital). Two of the four group claims have been successful with 2 pending final hearing.
- Providing employment advice and support to the HR team and training for managers.
Browne Jacobson LLP
Browne Jacobson LLP advises a range of public and private clients on contentious and non-contentious, including comprehensive in-house training and informative webinars. Recent work highlights has seen the team represent businesses in unfair dismissal, disability and unequal pay Employment Tribunal claims, as well as conducting detailed IR35 audits and large TUPE transfer mandates. Team head Ian Deakin has a practice that spans beyond the North West and is principally noted for his litigation expertise alongside his specialism in collective redundancy matters and IR35 issues. Miriam Onwochei-Garcia has worked closely with the firm’s Education department to support its bespoke HR service offering, alongside counselling clients on the drafting and negotiation of contracts and reviewing employee terms and conditions. Lee Ashwood joined the firm in May 2023 from Freeths LLP, while Nicola Hollick left the practice to join Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in 2022.
Practice head(s):
Ian Deakin
Other key lawyers:
Miriam Onwochei-Garcia
Key clients
Hiscox
Sports Information Services
Dock 10
Priory Federation of Academies
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
EM Lawshare
Axis Corporate Capital UK Ltd.
J Carter Sporting Club Limited t/a Castore Sportsware
Confederation of Schools Trust
Work highlights
Fieldfisher
Boasting an impressive presence in the hospitality, retail and manufacturing sectors, Fieldfisher has an established strength in employment litigation as well as non-contentious matters such as TUPE transfers, restructurings, and in-house management training. The team is able to call upon its colleagues in the tax department to provide clients with national minimum wage and IR35 advice, as well as conduct audits. Group head Alex Watson‘s nationwide practice centres on complex senior executive disputes, including exit negotiations for founders and directors and guiding outsourcing arrangements. Jeremy Harris heads pension issues, while David Carmichael leverages his considerable commercial litigation experience to act on executive exits, restrictive covenant allegations and whistleblowing matters. Richard Branson is active on issues regarding whistleblowing, discrimination and employment law compliance across a range of sectors, while Rachel Rigg regularly supports Alex on sensitive settlement and tribunal matters.
Practice head(s):
Alex Watson; Jeremy Harris; David Carmichael; Ranjit Dhindsa
Other key lawyers:
Richard Branson; Rachel Rigg
Work highlights
Kennedys
A ‘very approachable and highly experienced’ practice, Kennedys specialises in complex tribunal claims, EDI and data protection advice, and collective grievance and discrimination guidance. Businesses continually rely on the department for on-going legal support pertaining to employee management, including altering terms and conditions of employment, severance policies, and service provision changes. The team is helmed by Amanda Beaumont who provides clients with ‘sound legal and commercial advice’, most notably regarding whistleblowing claims, senior executive departures, and employee restructuring issues. Sarah FitzGerald is a trusted counsellor to a range of insurers and insurer-backed businesses, with work ranging from ad-hoc assistance to disciplinary and grievance guidance. Rebecca Boothman has also been active on a number of mandates.
Practice head(s):
Amanda Beaumont
Other key lawyers:
Sarah FitzGerald; Rebecca Boothman
Testimonials
‘Very approachable and highly experienced in dealing with challenging cases in the employment law arena.’
‘Amanda Beaumont really impressed. She is very approachable and always gives sound legal and commercial advice. Amanda has dealt with a number of very challenging cases for us over the last twelve months and in every case she has achieved excellent results.’
Key clients
Cogent Skills Services
dmg : events
RSA
Travelers
AIG
Newly Weds Foods
Nuffield Health
Arena Racing Company
Vitaflo International
UK Fuels / Radius Payment Solutions
Spire Healthcare
The Growth Company
Kemin UK Limited
The University of Portsmouth
Work highlights
- Acting for major insurers AIG, RSA and Travelers in the defence of Employment Practices Liability claims brought against various employers covered by insurance.
- Acting in Employment Tribunal litigation involving whistleblowing allegations arising from alleged breaches of EU pet food labelling regulations.
Law by Design Limited
Law by Design Limited is a popular choice for medical and care associations and educational institutions, boasting strong client growth over the past twelve months. The group is particularly noted for its impressive investigation work which has involved probing allegations of systemic abuse and discrimination within the workplace, alongside mandates that include advising on contracts and senior exit agreements, cross-border TUPE transfers, and Employment Tribunal claims. Team head Sue Morrison is widely recognised for her distinctive expertise in evaluating the conduct and capabilities of doctors and is regularly sought out by NHS Trusts, as well as teaching academies. Ian Radford is a fully accredited mediator and has been notably active in disability discrimination claims, while Justin Quinton, who joined from Slater and Gordon in September 2022, has bolstered the firm’s litigation capabilities, as well as its ability to handle employment and data protection matters.
Practice head(s):
Sue Morrison
Other key lawyers:
Ian Radford; Justin Quinton
Testimonials
‘A unique practice which focuses on the health sector. Integrated with parallel businesses specialising in the health sector.’
‘The team at Law By Design are fantastic to deal with. They are always extremely professional. One aspect of their service I particularly like is that they respond quickly to matters and are very proactive in helping us find solutions.’
‘Sue Morrison is an acknowledged expert in the field of employment law and the health sector.’
Key clients
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Countess of Chester NHS Foundation Trust
Manchester Local Care Organisation
Salford Primary Care Together
Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust
The Dean Trust
Liquibox Corporation Inc
Corplex
Whitfield & Brown Developments Limited
Work highlights
Mills & Reeve LLP
Mills & Reeve LLP continues its impressive run of winning new clients, especially in the health sector, and has seen an uptick in grievance-related mandates, requiring the team to engage in a variety of internal investigations and exit strategy negotiations. In addition, the department has assisted employee issues arising out of corporate mergers and acquisitions within Europe as well as due diligence, TUPE transfers, and a variety of Employment Tribunal claims. Leading the practice is the ‘authentic and personable’ Sara Barrett, who is principally noted for her expertise in boardroom and management disputes as well as knowledge of employment compliance and regulations in multiple jurisdictions. Pili Fernandez-Mahoney has an active contentious practice, particularly excelling in discrimination and whistleblowing claims, while Linda Glover regularly supports HR directors in disciplinary processes and grievance investigations.
Practice head(s):
Sara Barrett
Other key lawyers:
Pili Fernandez-Mahoney; Linda Glover
Testimonials
‘The employment team at Mills and Reeve have provided legal advice over many years to my organisation. They are very knowledgeable, pragmatic, considered and understand our sector.’
‘My organisation works very closely with Sara Barrett and the team. The individuals are extremely approachable, knowledgeable, and provide practical and considered advice which is in line with our sector and expectations of the sector within which we operate. They provide trusted, credible and proven legal advice.’
‘They are a collaborative practice that is highly responsive and always up to date on the specifics of cases.’
‘The team feel like an extended part of our HR team which we are able to leverage as required. No hard sell, they understand our business, and are pragmatic in approach.’
‘Sara Barrett is the lead partner for our business; authentic and personable, she balances risk with a pragmatic approach.’
‘Always clarity of communication, quality of advice, and an intuitive assessment of risk at pace.’
Key clients
Phoenix Group (including L. Rowland & Company)
LTE Group
Lancaster University
Bako Group
Befesa Salt Slags Limited
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Royal Northern college of Music
Chester West and Chester Leisure CIC
Work highlights
- Advising on TUPE legislation, including compliance with TUPE regulations.
- Advising on UK aspects of major acquisition.
- Providing advice on industrial relation matters to an increasing number of clients across both the education and commercial sectors.
SAS Daniels LLP
Fielding an ‘integrated team of approachable professionals’, SAS Daniels LLP has engaged with a strong body of contentious employment work over the past 12 months, working with clients to defend claims pertaining to unfair dismissal, age, race and pregnancy discrimination, as well as various wage violation allegations. In addition to this, the group is routinely involved with TUPE, redundancy, and restructuring mandates. Department head Katie Hodson is chiefly noted for her expertise handling discrimination cases and has been crucial to clients by possessing a strong track record of negotiating settlements with claimants and preventing lengthy tribunal proceedings. The ‘extremely intelligent’ Warren Moores is geared to act on a range of restructuring, dismissal and contractual matters, while Charlie Wood has acted as an extension to the corporate team on a number of mandates, advising on service agreements and the transfer of company shares.
Practice head(s):
Katie Hodson
Other key lawyers:
Warren Moores; Charlie Wood
Testimonials
‘An integrated team of approachable professionals, always willing to assist and with all the necessary expertise or access to this expertise.’
‘With SAS you are getting expert advice in a professional manner. They have handled every aspect of our business operations.’
‘SAS Daniels has been responsive and supportive at every contact.’
Work highlights
Shoosmiths LLP
Drawing superb praise from a litany of clients, the ‘simply excellent’ employment team at Shoosmiths LLP possesses technical expertise in work pertaining to National Minimum Wage, IR35 investigations and restrictive covenant issues, in addition to a deep wealth of litigation experience. The firm has also expanded its activity in the tech, media and communications sectors, acquiring new high-profile clients and acting on collective redundancies and senior executive disputes. The team is led by the ‘excellent litigator’ Emma Morgan who has been active in whistleblowing, wrongful dismissal and discrimination claims alongside an impressive non-contentious body of work which includes reviewing the employment status of contractors and guiding clients through the regulations and compliance regarding overseas workers entering the UK. Amy Anderson handles a portfolio of large-scale restructuring and reorganisation matters, including addressing employment issues arising from Next’s acquisition of Joules, while Lauren Bholé is principally noted for her ability to defend complex tribunal litigation.
Practice head(s):
Emma Morgan
Other key lawyers:
Amy Anderson; Lauren Bholé
Testimonials
‘The team are always focused on strategy and ensure the progress of the case suits the clients’ needs. This often means being innovate and dynamic in their approach to litigation.’
‘A special mention must go to Emma Morgan and the team have all been so supportive to myself and my team over the years in two separate businesses. They have always been there for us and supported our decision making at all times.’
‘The team is cohesive and collaborative. They share knowledge about our business and current matters to help inform how they advise as a collective. I have found the team very responsive and proactive; their litigation style is assertive rather than passive and reactive which is the experience from other firms.’
‘My relationship with Emma Morgan, Amy Anderson and Lauren Bholé has become strong over the last four years. However knowledgeable, professional and service led they are (and they are very) that never takes away from being able to discuss all matters with them and feel that there is genuine care and a willingness to support and help.’
‘The employment team are simply excellent, they understand my business and their advice is always considerate of this. They are always professional, courteous, approachable, knowledgeable and spend time talking things through in order for the business to fully understand the options available to ensure the best decision possible is always made.’
Amy Anderson at Shoosmiths is outstanding, and by far the best legal advisor I’ve worked with. She guarantees delivery that is comprehensive, and always meets our company driven deadlines. Her flexibility ensures she has credibility and builds trusting partnerships.’
‘Emma Morgan is impressive, leading the team with gravitas whilst remaining commercial and pragmatic in her advice to clients. Emma ensures our client team works cohesively whilst retaining oversight of all matters and giving strong strategic direction.’
‘Lauren Bhole is a key and trusted member of the client team – taking time to understand the complexities of the business’ operational challenges in order to guide strategy and effectively influence stakeholders.’
Key clients
AudioMob Limited
CityFibre Holdings Limited
DA Languages Limited
Mawdsley Group Investments Limited
Fulcrum Infrastructure Limited
The Francis Crick Institute
WeWork
Lottoland
Jorvik Design Group Limited
Work highlights
- Worked with the CR&A team to advise on the employment aspects of the £41m sale of Joules to NEXT.
Bexley Beaumont
Bexley Beaumont's ascendant employment team is consolidating its strong position in the North West market through the hire of Nicky Young from Brabners LLP and Alice Kinder from Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP, a move which bolsters its impressive bench of practitioners geared to act for an ever-expanding portfolio of regional and national clients in the retail, manufacturing, healthcare and financial services sectors. In recent times, the group has been active in a range of tribunal claims, senior executive departures, independent investigations, and collective redundancy matters. Alex Clements specialises in boardroom disputes and negotiations, handling executive exit packages and restructuring proceedings. Beyond her strategic advisory work regarding restrictive covenant breaches, Rebecca Peck demonstrates notable expertise in worker status and holiday pay disagreements, as well as extensive litigation experience, while Louise Carr is a trusted counsellor to a litany of public sector bodies who rely on her broad contentious and non-contentious practice.
Other key lawyers:
Alexandra Clements; Rebecca Peck; Louise Carr; Nicola Young
Testimonials
‘The strength of Bexley Beaumont is their ability to build strong relationships with their clients and to provide clear, concise and thorough recommendations when approached.‘
‘This is a firm that cares about their own people as well as their clients. Having a single point of contact adds overall value to the way in which they do business with you and this is key.’
Key clients
VUR Village Trading No 1 Limited t/a Village Hotels
JD Sports Fashion plc
Brand Addition Limited
JN Bentley Limited
Knox Pharmaceutical Limited
Brown and Newirth Limited
Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council
The Sovereign Trust
Anesco Limited
British Pregnancy Advisory Service
Isource IT UK Limited
Hillside (Shared Service 2018) Limited t/a Bet 365
Mammoet (UK) Limited
Woodrow Mercer Limited
QubicaAMF UK Limited
Paragon Finance PLC (part of Paragon Banking Group PLC)
Work highlights
- Defended a race discrimination claim for JD Sports Fashion plc.
- Defending a tribunal claim for Paragon.
Chambers O'Neill
Chambers O'Neill acts for a litany of regional and national clients across a wide range of sectors, including the UK branches of large international corporations. Team head Andrew O’Neill is intimately familiar with Employment Tribunal work, often conducting his own advocacy. He also possesses a practice that is particularly concentrated on issues generated by large corporate work, including supporting collective bargaining processes and addressing contractual disputes. Naomi Dinnes is a go-to lawyer for employment issues grounded with religious issues and is heavily active in litigation and senior executive termination mandates. Michelle Gray-Nicholls joined as a senior consultant from a previous in-house position in February 2022.
Practice head(s):
Andrew O’Neill
Other key lawyers:
Naomi Dinnes; Michelle Gray-Nicholls
Testimonials
‘The team make a genuine effort to know and understand the business not just wining and dining but coming and seeing the operational side visiting venues and talking to the regional management. This is so they can tailor their advice to what best suits the needs of the business.’
‘Andrew O’Neill is our main point of contact although we have been given support by other members of the practice dependent on subject matter.’
Very client focused, responds quickly and provides excellent support as required. Builds rapport with all company contacts.’
Key clients
ABM Aviation UK Limited
ABM Facility Services UK Limited
ABM Technical Solutions Limited
NES Global Talent
IDG Holdings Limited
Uniloads Limited
Urban Splash
A&M Energy Solutions Limited
ADP Architecture Limited
HCC Solicitors
Good Life Foods
Encore Global, a PSAV company
Transdev Airport Services Limited
CCH Limited
Work highlights
- Advised ABM Technical Solutions on a TUPE/unfair dismissal/union related and discrimination claim over a multi day hearing in London Central Tribunal.
- Conducted and concluded a group action claim in respect of a large number of former employees of Shearings holiday company following its insolvency.
- Advising ABM Aviation on its casual worker arrangements, including drafting new contracts for its substantial casual worker operation.
Clyde & Co
Following its merger with BLM in 2022, Clyde & Co has handled a series of big-ticket employment mandates including complex Employment Tribunal claims, internal investigation assignments, and both domestic and cross border workforce restructuring projects. Lynsey Barrow leads the Manchester-focused team and is chiefly recognised for experience in multifaceted litigation cases including unfair dismissal, discrimination and whistleblowing, and is regularly joined in tribunals by Tom Saville, who is also active in investigatory work and regulatory breaches. The ‘incredible’ Jennifer Bevan focuses on transactional and project based work for a range of clients in the professional services, healthcare and manufacturing sectors, while Jennifer Bevan acts on redundancy, disciplinary, and restructuring matters. Jessica Mullen continues to be an ‘invaluable asset’ to in-house legal and HR teams, providing ad-hoc employment advice on the full range of issues, whereas Alyce McNaughton possesses notable expertise in drafting and negotiating employee documentation and handling senior executive exits.
Practice head(s):
Lynsey Barrow
Other key lawyers:
Tom Saville; Jennifer Bevan; Jessica Mullen; Emily Cowburn; Alyce McNaughton
Testimonials
‘Clyde pride themselves in getting to know your business which helps them to provide fantastic advice and guidance – this way you don’t purely get a legal answer – the advice they give is well-thought-out and pragmatic. They are a true partner and I would not even consider changing practices.’
I have worked closely with Jennifer Bevan for many years. She is personable, professional and passionately dedicated to her clients.’
Jennifer Bevan has been incredible – she is so personable and can see things from both the legal perspective and the business perspective.’
Key clients
D.I. Design & Development Consultants (UK) Limited
Freeths LLP
Roundly praised by clients in the retail, hospitality and leisure, warehousing and logistics sectors, the ‘incredibly approachable’ employment team at Freeths LLP is noted for its broad contentious and non-contentious expertise. Recently appointed team head Laura Tracey is the primary driver in the firm’s steady stream of corporate-related mandates, routinely advising on mass consultations and the transfer of employees as part of commercial mergers and acquisitions, as well as drafting and negotiating supporting documents such as Asset Purchase Agreements. Lynne Ingram has been active in a variety of claims that have been both settled through mediation and progressed through to hearings, while also being a key figure in the practice’s audit and assessment work, most recently evaluating a clients’ diversity and inclusive initiatives, while Matt Fraser focuses on restructuring and redundancy matters.
Practice head(s):
Laura Tracey
Other key lawyers:
Lynne Igram; Matt Fraser
Testimonials
‘Quick turnaround when feedback required from other internal teams for example the tax team quickly feeding back to the employment team.’
‘I find the team at Freeths incredibly approachable. Emails are dealt with and responded to in a very efficient and timely manner. They listen and are very understanding to our needs and always provide a helpful practical response.’
Key clients
Aldi Stores Limited
Emma Bridgewater Limited
Churchill China PLC
Portmeirion Group PLC
Gu Indulgent Foods Limited
National Portrait Gallery
Leek United Building Society
DBS Online Limited
Horizon Care & Education Limited
Zetar Limited
Work highlights
- Advised a manufacturer of a global consumer brand on the termination of its chairperson’s employment and their removal from the board.
- Undertook a ‘root-and-branch’ audit of a building society’s diversity and inclusion work.
- Acted for a global materials science-tech company in its defence of an equal pay employment tribunal claim brought by its current finance director.
gunnercooke LLP
gunnercooke LLP has handled a significant volume of big-ticket litigation mandates over the past twelve months, including representing Claimants in sex discrimination and harassment claims against Network Rail. Beyond this body of work, the practice has also been involved in cross-border employee dismissal proceedings and accompanying share valuation issues, TUPE transfers and regulation advice, aswell as drafting contracts and temporary employment frameworks. The ‘legally and commercially minded’ Paul Ryman and the ‘knowledgeable, approachable and empathetic’ Rachel Spink focus on the firm’s contentious mandates, acting in disability, age, unfair dismissal and whistleblowing claims, while Sarah Armstrong is chiefly recognised for her acumen in regulatory and compliance matters, in addition to restrictive covenant disputes and senior executive exits.
Other key lawyers:
Paul Ryman; Rachel Spink; Sarah Armstrong
Testimonials
‘The team are really informed, organised and responsive. They are always on top of next steps and communicate clearly.’
‘Paul is a professional and is both legally and comercially minded which is not always a combination you see.’
‘I have found the team to be incredibly receptive and responsive to any queries we have and their teams are always very well briefed on our business issues.’
‘Paul Ryman has been particularly helpful and supportive. His dealing with a complex issue has been thoughtful and compassionate, but professional and totally trustworthy.’
‘The team are flexible regarding the invoicing requests. I asked the team to issue an invoice every time a specific threshold has been reached and they complied with my request. This allowed me to budget better.’
‘I worked with Rachel Spink on a complicated employment matter. She is able to explain difficult concepts in plain language. What mattered a lot to me was that, on top of her vast knowledge, she was approachable and empathetic.’
Key clients
College of Paramedics
Investors in People
Customade Group
Hologic Limited
Therapie Clinics
Institute of Contemporary Arts
PCF Bank plc
Affinity Shipping LLP
Richmond Fellowship
Wybone Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for an individual in a high profile employment tribunal claim against Network Rail.
- Advised a client in relation to her claims of unfair dismissal and age discrimination against Mane Ltd.
HM3 Legal
Offering a ‘pragmatic approach to problem-solving’, HM3 Legal advises on a number of employment mandates, including the settlement and exit terms of senior executives, TUPE service provision changes, investigations into discrimination and bullying claims, as well contentious matters. Justine Watkinson leads the practice and is best known for her litigation experience and ability to handle complex boardroom disputes, while Lindsey Kidd has a strong depth of knowledge regarding business restructurings, the movement of employees, pensions, and post-termination restrictions. Angharad Williams has been active supporting on the full range of practice matters, including working alongside her corporate colleagues to provide employment insight to M&A deals.
Practice head(s):
Justine Watkinson
Other key lawyers:
Lindsey Kidd; Angharad Williams
Testimonials
‘What makes HM3 unique is their genuine commitment to understanding our business, working in close partnership with us to provide expert guidance and advice aligned to our business strategy and organisational culture.’
‘The individuals we work with at HM3 are extremely accessible, approachable and responsive to requests for guidance and advice regarding any employment law matter.’
‘Approachable and considerate, with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving. ‘
Work highlights
Lewis Silkin LLP
Tribunal cases and investigation work form the cornerstone of Lewis Silkin LLP‘s employment practice. Bolstered by the far-reaching expertise of 2022 arrival and new team head Sally Hulston from Knights plc, the group is chiefly recognised for its ability to handle a range of discrimination, harassment and unfair dismissal claims, as well as employment issues arising from corporate endeavours and boardroom disputes. The ‘razor sharp and strategically astute’ Carly Mather has been an integral part of the firm’s series of #metoo allegation investigations, alongside acting on a strong body of work pertaining to senior executive exits. Edmund Gregory is active on a wide range of practice matters, possessing a ‘vast knowledge of employment law and employment litigation strategy’.
Practice head(s):
Sally Hulston
Other key lawyers:
Carly Mather; Edmund Gregory
Testimonials
‘Lewis Silkin is a leading employment firm. The North West branch, whilst new to Lewis Silkin, is made up of an experienced team of employment lawyers who have a long history of experience in employment disputes. They work well as a team and are quick to absorb counsel into the fold when needed.’
‘Sally Hulston is one of the best employment lawyers I’ve come across. She always goes the extra mile. She adds value, is practical, has taken the time to understand our business and always comes up with innovative ideas. She has an infectious energy and is very easy to work with.’
‘The personal relationships the team build with their clients. They are commercial and pragmatic. Their communication is excellent and they are quick to respond.’
‘Edmund Gregory has a vast knowledge of employment law and employment litigation strategy. He is easy to speak with, always ready for action and prepares exceptional briefs. Moreover, he clearly understands client objectives and develops a strategy that will best achieve the desired outcome.’
‘Their intellectual ability, responsiveness, and genuine ‘feel’ for employment law and employment litigation is extremely strong. Hugely talented individuals based in Manchester are backed up by the totally seamless resources and expertise of the wider Lewis Silkin team, one of the best employment and labour law practices in the UK.’
‘Carly Mather is a joy to work with. Easy to get along with and an extremely warm and friendly approach. She is razor sharp and strategically astute.’
‘The team is very commercial and collaborative. It feels like they are an extension of our internal team when working with them. They give practical, straight forward advice and are a pleasure to work with.’
‘Sally Hulston is a great employment lawyer with a natural ‘feel’ for the practice area, is incredibly responsive, and has exceptional client relationship skills. Carly Mather is a hugely talented rising star in the team. Superb case management skills.’
Key clients
Bestway Panacea Holdings Limited t/a Well Pharmacy
easyJet Airline Company Limited
Hertz Europe Limited
West Midland Trains Limited
Simplyhealth Limited
Norcros Group (Holdings) Limited
Scotia Gas Networks Limited
R&R Ice-Cream Limited
Frenkel Topping Limited
Semperian Business Support Limited
Work highlights
- Complex and high value (worth £3m+) unfair dismissal and disability discrimination claim for a financial services client brought by a claimant with ADHD and Asperger’s who was dismissed for sexually harassing multiple clients.
- Working as part of a team of six investigators, managing an investigation into numerous #metoo allegations of serious sexual harassment and discrimination brought by an ex-employee at an entertainment business.
- Advising a retailer on the exit of several senior executives and the transitional arrangements in place in the lead up to their termination dates.
MLP Law LLP
A firm with a Manchester, Altrincham and Lymm offering, MLP Law LLP handles a steady stream of impressive employment mandates, that routinely requires the team to navigate multiple jurisdictions, with notable activity in the hospitality, manufacturing and construction sectors. Recent key work highlights include guiding clients through National Minimum Wage compliance, assisting businesses with disciplinary code and employee welfare provision updates, and providing bespoke in-house training to management teams, including conducting mock-tribunals. The team is steered by Gareth Matthews, who has particular expertise in corporate-related employment matters such as TUPE transfers, overseas worker obligations, and redundancy issues, as well as possessing a wealth of litigation experience. Julie Sabba is also active on wide scope of practice matters and regularly conducts her own tribunal advocacy in cases pertaining to unfair dismissal, whistleblowing and discrimination.
Practice head(s):
Gareth Matthews
Other key lawyers:
Julie Sabba
Testimonials
‘They are excellent and respond speedily to all conflict work that we send to them.’
‘The firm organises regular topical webinars which enables interaction with other clients to discuss topics and updates.’
‘I have found them to be particularly practical and solution focused in their approach which I have struggled to find with other law firms.’
Work highlights
Trowers & Hamlins LLP
Trowers & Hamlins LLP's ascendant North West team continues to consolidate its strong position in the market, working with a portfolio of national and international companies on a high-volume of contentious and non-contentious employment matters. Danielle Ingham is widely active in the technology, leisure, manufacturing and retail sectors, handling complex tribunal cases involving unfair dismissal and race and disability discrimination claims, as well as advising on large restructuring projects requiring bulk settlement agreements and legislation and compliance guidance, often involving multiple jurisdictions. Laura Welchew provides trusted counsel to a wealth of charities, with notable expertise in senior executive dismissals, TUPE issues, and litigation. Vikki Cunliffe is a ‘stand-out individual’ in the practice, regularly supporting her regional and London colleagues on big-ticket mandates involving management changes, safeguarding issues, due diligence, and tribunal proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Danielle Ingham; Laura Welchew
Other key lawyers:
Vikki Cunliffe
Testimonials
‘The way the practice structures their team to ensure the most appropriate individual is your direct contact for specific elements of work makes it clear who your regular contacts are but provides access to more senior and specialist knowledge readily if required.’
‘The Trowers Team are the best legal team I’ve worked with. Firstly their expertise and knowledge is first-rate. As well as spot on, pragmatic legal advice, they take a holistic view to supporting our people team.’
‘The Team are knowledgeable ad importantly accessible, and someone always gets back to us quickly with our queries. They offer free training and updates which are helpful. They understand our industry and provide practical solutions.’
‘Stand out individual for us is Vikki Cunliffe as she provides timely, commercial advice and has secured good results for us in tribunals.’
Key clients
Costco Wholesale UK Limited
Secret Escapes Limited
Peabody Trust
Dimensions (UK) Limited
Armstrong Projects Limited
The Together Trust
The Disabilities Trust
Babington Business Limited
National Autistic Society
Mosscare St Vincent’s Housing Group Limited
Work highlights
- Advised The Disabilities Trust on the sale of its autism business to Voyage Care.
- Advised Secret Escapes on a global restructuring project covering eight of its employee locations from the UK to Singapore.
- Successfully defended Costco Wholesale UK against a five day unfair dismissal, race and disability discrimination claim.
Backhouse Jones
A boutique team that are truly ‘specialists in the transport sector’, Backhouse Jones fields a strong client base that spans beyond the North West, advising on a range of issues including complex, multifaceted tribunal claims and large-scale restructuring projects. The department also possesses the technical proficiency to handle employment status and contractual mandates, including IR35 alterations, TUPE transfers, and National Minimum Wage investigations. Team head Steven Meyerhoff‘s far-reaching expertise is particularly concentrated in contentious matters, and he regularly conducts his own advocacy in Employment Tribunal proceedings pertaining breach of regulations, discrimination, harassment, and pay infringements. Co-head James Lomax‘s comprehensive sector focus is consistently sought by clients seeking advice regarding document and policy drafting, regulation compliance, grievance issues and the enforcement of restrictive covenants. Heather Lunney is highly recommended for her HR support capabilities, including conducting investigations and audits as well as being well-regarded for her litigation prowess.
Practice head(s):
Steven Meyerhoff; James Lomax
Other key lawyers:
Heather Lumney
Testimonials
‘James Lomax genuinely looks at situation from the employer’s perspective in terms of challenges, frustration, risk, reputational factors and day to day practicalities of dealing with people issues.’
‘The firm is known for transport but they actually have a large and very experienced employment team. What I like about them is that they understand my business first and then apply the law to my problem.’
‘An exceptional team, with market leading sector knowledge. Pre-eminent in transport and logistics sector, delivering exception legal service to that client base.’
‘Steven Meyerhoff is an outstanding advisor. No one know the transport and logistics sector better than Steven, and that is married with first class legal knowledge and tactical planning and insight. Steven is ably supported by James Lomax, who is a very capable employment lawyer and litigator.’
‘Steven Meyerhoff has excellent employment law knowledge.’
‘Specialists in the transport sector.’
Work highlights
- The firm provides most of the major UK bus operators and many major UK HGV operators with daily employment advice and representation at tribunal.
- Providing the “RHA’s legal services” subscription scheme which allows RHA members exclusively to take full control of their legal budget.
- Acting for Abellio on various employment related matters, including the highly publicised London bus worker strikes.
DTM Legal LLP
DTM Legal LLP‘s employment team is noted for its proficiency in senior executive disputes, litigation and TUPE mandates, working with a wide roster of clients in the manufacturing, tech, communications, leisure and engineering sectors. Frequently praised for his far-reaching expertise and reliable assistance, team head Tom Evans has been highly active in tribunal proceedings, defending clients in cases pertaining discrimination, unfair dismissal, and breach of contract claims, as well as advising on large restructuring and collective redundancy matters. Alison Brennan is a go-to for counsel on GDPR and data protection issue, shareholder disputes, and contract drafting and negotiations.
Practice head(s):
Tom Evans
Testimonials
‘Tom Evans is our go-to employment partner at DTM. He is always pragmatic and, as another law firm introducing our clients to Tom for employment advice, we always feel they are in safe hands. ‘
‘We have complete confidence in the team will carry out any work on our behalf quickly, promptly, and to the highest degree. ‘
‘We have been working with Tom Evans and the team for a number of years, and he is always on hand to give advice and guidance whenever needed, regardless of what type of questions we have.’
Key clients
Callitech t/a Moneypenny
Typhoo Tea Limited
Village Bakery (Wrexham) Limited
CSA Group Testing UK Limited
Proximo Holdings Limited
Thornton Hall Hotel Limited
Evoke Creative Limited
Smylie Limited
Calder Industrial Materials Limited
Atlas Copco IAS UK Limited
MCS Service Company Limited
Work highlights
- Advising a national company on a large scale multi department restructure affecting 100+ roles triggering collective consultation with recognised trade unions.
- Defending complex and multiple race and sexual orientation discrimination claims by two employees on behalf of a national company.
- Advising on various TUPE projects throughout 2022/2023 arising from client wins triggering service provision changes.
Glaisyers LLP
Spearheaded by Russell Brown, Glaisyers Solicitors LLP‘s full-service offering includes advising on large restructuring projects, senior executive arrivals and departures, and tribunal cases. The department is routinely required to support mergers and acquisitions, reviewing a range of contracts, policies and liabilities and preparing detailed due diligence reports. Russell is single out for his proficiency in boardroom disputes, demonstrating notable acumen in negotiating settlement agreements and guiding management through the enforcement of restrictive covenants, and is regularly supported by both Nicola Clarke and Gemma Wilson who possess a wide-reaching contentious and non-contentious practice that is particularly strong regarding complex tribunal claims. Jennifer Johnson has quickly engaged with a litany of firm mandates since joining in 2022 from Co-op Legal Services.
Practice head(s):
Russell Brown
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Clarke; Gemma Wilson; Jennifer Johnson
Testimonials
‘Working with Russell Brown and his team at Glaisyers has given me a real sense of partnership and trust.’
‘I’ve been working with Russell Brown for years, his advice is invaluable and I trust his expertise 100 percent.’
‘The team’s strengths are their responsiveness – they are quick to react to requests for support.’
Work highlights
Gorvins Solicitors
Gorvins Solicitors has seen an uptick in litigation work over the past twelve months, especially regarding Covid-19 and discrimination disputes, as well as collective redundancies and employee exit issues. Team head David Rogers is a go-to advisor for the firm’s extensive list of clients in the manufacturing and distribution industry for TUPE advice, due to his previous in-house counsel experience, and is also well versed in large scale reorganisation mandates and disciplinary disputes. Amanda Isherwood has a broad practice particularly concentrated on senior executive arrivals and exits, as well as contentious matters involving disability, maternity and pregnancy cases.
Practice head(s):
David Rogers
Other key lawyers:
Amanda Isherwood
Testimonials
‘Easy to contact and speak to, and responds quickly. I always find their advice is explained in a way that is easy to understand. ‘
‘David Rogers has gone out of his way to ensure we feel at ease whenever we need to contact him. Its important to build a good relationship and I feel he has gone out of his way to do that. ‘
Key clients
Tetrosyl Limited
James Briggs Limited
Dean Group International Limited
William Reed Limited
William Turner & Son (Stockport) Limited
Rapid Energy Limited
Tailor Made Sourcing Limited
Muller Strategic Projects Limited
Rowlinson Group Limited
Rowlinson Knitwear Limited
Satake Europe Limited
Work highlights
- Acted on behalf of William Turner & Son Ltd in relation to the closure of their Skipton factory and consolidation into their Nelson based site.
- Acted for William Reed Limited in relation to the purchase of the publication known as Retail Week and various retail events.
Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd
In the wake of an impressive year of recruitment, Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd has fostered a strong team with the ability to handle the full breadth of contentious and non-contentious employment mandates. The ‘stand out’ team head Susan Mayall is active in TUPE transfers, GDPR and data protection issues, contractual and policy drafting procedures, as well as advising senior management on executive hires and departures. Alan Lewis, who joined from Linder Myers Solicitors in November 2022, joins Mayall as co-head of the department, and has largely focused on restrictive covenant, redundancy, and discrimination and unfair dismissal tribunal proceedings. Ben Williams, who also joined from Linder Myers Solicitors alongside Lewis, is commended for his ability to tailor specific advice to clients, providing ad-hoc HR support amongst a steady volume of grievances investigations and disciplinary processes counsel.
Practice head(s):
Alan Lewis; Susan Mayall
Other key lawyers:
Ben Williams
Testimonials
‘Pearson Solicitors provide a personal service and you are made to feel as though you are their only client. There are affordable options for financial engagement, offering either a monthly ‘package’ approach or bespoke fixed fee options. This means you can engage with them frequently and with confidence, knowing the cost.’
‘They have a great deal of knowledge and deliver their services in a personable and efficient manner.’
‘Susan Mayall is an outstanding, professional individual who has a breadth of knowledge regarding employment law. She works incredibly hard to provide quick answers and is always available to talk through difficult situations. Not only has she provided excellent advice and support to our business but has enabled us to grow our knowledge and experience with her support.’
Key clients
Rayburn Trading Limited
Jack Ross Chartered Accountants
Family Care Group Limited
Beyond Corporate Law
Beyond Corporate Law has bolstered its capacity for a full-service offering through the arrival of employment specialist Adam Pavey from Bevan Brittan LLP in December 2022, a lawyer who brings a wealth of experience in litigation, senior executive disputes and HR consulting. He joins the ‘excellent’ Anthony Dempsey as joint head of the team, who possesses ‘deep expertise in employment law‘ and is regularly sought by his corporate colleagues to advise on issues arising from mergers, acquisitions and workforce movements. Lucy Flynn is also active on a wide range of practice matters, particularly HR support, assisting with the drafting of contracts, service agreements and disciplinary protocols.
Practice head(s):
Anthony Dempsey; Adam Pavey
Other key lawyers:
Lucy Flynn
Testimonials
‘A hands-on, practical firm with highly knowledgeable and experienced people. Beyond understand commercial practicalities and provide focused advice and solutions.’
‘The Beyond team definitely go beyond in terms of service and accessibility to their staff.’
‘Working with Beyond Corporate has been a joy. There is a “never too much trouble” attitude and every question asked gets a carefully considered answer.’
‘Dealing with Lucy Flynn has been a lovely experience. As a manager who is always looking to learn, she helped me through one or two really difficult times. Always providing advice in warm and compassionate way. Having to deal with disciplinary matters can be challenging but working with Lucy made the experience far easier. I would recommend her to anyone.’
Key clients
AO.Com
Benchmark Capital
CorpAcq
Expert Logistics
First Recruitment
Gladman Developments Limited
Maltacourt Global Logistics
Morson Group
Pimberley
Supportive Care (UK) Limited
Supreme plc
Brilliant Planet Limited
The Ethikos Group
Koerber Supply Chain UK Limited
Work highlights
- Advised on employee incentive arrangements including the implementation of a 2022 LTIP and the planning and co-ordination of a multiple exercise of existing share options and sale of shares by employees.
- Advised on the inception of its pioneering technology created by researchers at Newcastle University, including advice on the licensing, IP, and employment issues arising in establishing the business.
- Acted in an employment tribunal claim of race discrimination, successfully having the claim dismissed for want of prosecution.
Bradshaw Trees Law
Receiving superlative praise from a litany of clients in the hospitality, manufacturing, construction and retail sectors, Bradshaw Trees Law has quickly established trusted connections with businesses and individuals across the North West since its inception in 2021. Spearheaded by Karen Sanderson, the firm is geared to act in employment tribunal work, implementing workplace strategies and initiatives, conducting internal grievance investigations, and advising on TUPE and contractual arrangements. Sanderson herself is an experienced litigator, frequently acting in discrimination and whistleblowing cases, and competently handles corporate-related employment issues as well as senior executive disputes. The firm has also been involved in a number of cross-border mandates in the past twelve months, including liaising with foreign lawyers and advising on overseas working compliance.
Practice head(s):
Karen Sanderson
Testimonials
‘Always responsive, and nothing is too much trouble. They are practical with their advice.’
‘Karen Sanderson has a breadth of knowledge and experience which she encompasses at her boutique employment law practice.’
‘The team at Bradshaw Trees Law are very knowledgeable. They take time to understand yourself and your business and are able to offer the support where it is needed, providing sound advice for your business.’
Key clients
Profile Security Services Ltd
Lancashire Eccles Cakes
Interfloor Limited
Scanwel Ltd
Walker Lovell
Connaught Facilities Ltd
Bicester Golf Hotel & Spa
Lawler & Co Estate Agents
Flock Development & Research Ltd
Shannon R. & D. Limited
The Great Annual Savings Co Ltd
Evolution Aqua Limited
Fintern Ltd
ACE Scaffolding (Mcr) Ltd
Swift Scaffold (Midlands) Ltd
Heligan Group LLP
DentalCare@62
Laeto Trading Ltd
Work highlights
- Advises on employment law needs, including advice on TUPE, outsourcing issues, disciplinary and grievance issues, and acting in employment tribunal claims.
- Assisted with implementing the Bradford Factor to manage sickness absence, which has seen a significant improvement in absence levels.
Martin & Co
The ‘highly professional and responsive’ Martin & Co boasts strong connections with the charity and education sectors, advising on substantial employment mandates, including handling the TUPE issues involved in the takeover of a college by a Spanish foundation. The team has also been active in complex Employment Tribunal claims, the restructuring of workforces, and restrictive covenant issues. The highly experienced department head John Martin has ‘a firm grasp on the law and strong ethical base’ and is particularly well reputed for his boardroom and senior executive work, as well as being a strong litigator. Ciaran Montague is a key contact for education and charity clients and has been involved in the practice’s tribunal proceedings.
Practice head(s):
John Martin
Other key lawyers:
Ciaran Montague
Testimonials
‘I believe Martin & Co’s uniqueness is the personal commitment to the clients. As a firm you know you can count on the member of the team to be available always, to take time to explain things to you personally and not just by email.’
‘I have had the pleasure of working with John Martin. I believe his knowledge of employment law is of the highest standards.’
‘The practice provides high quality, honest, transparent legal advice.’
Work highlights
- Defended David Lewis Centre in two multi day discrimination claims in the Employment Tribunal.
- Summary advised St Bede’s College on TUPE issues in respect of the takeover by a large Spanish foundation.
- Defended Oldham College in a claim for discrimination in the Employment Tribunal.
Peninsula Business Services
The ‘exemplary’ Peninsula Business Services has an employment practice largely concentrated on litigating in tribunal claims. Department head James Potts has been active in complex holiday pay disputes and disability discrimination claims, while the ‘highly professional and personable’ James Gilbert focuses on unfair dismissal, harassment and victimisation cases. Smaira Younis has also been active in the firm, acting in proceedings pertaining to TUPE transfers, constructive dismissal, and breaches of contract. Ed McFarlane joined from Worknest in July 2022.
Practice head(s):
James Potts
Other key lawyers:
James Gilbert; Ed McFarlane; Smaria Younis
Testimonials
‘I have always found the firm completely accessible at all time. They give fantastic advice on all areas of employment law. Peninsula are efficient, approachable and easy to deal with.’
‘Lovely team to work with from start to finish, they put me at ease at times that were most stressful for me, having never been through anything like this before in 30 years of business. Nothing was ever to much trouble and they explained every step to me.’
‘James Gilbert was very diligent, organised and personable. He made what was a challenging process to go through relatively enjoyable. Additionally, he remained professional throughout the process. James also made himself available whenever required.’
Key clients
Rentokil
Kingdom
Carlisle Support Services
ICTS
Holland Mountain
Archwood Medical Practice
Pauline Edwards Transport Warehousing
All Answers Limited
Cambridge Access Validating Agency
Aston Court Hotel
Nimro Dental
Resort Marketing
Land Sheriffs
People Legal
Acting primarily for small businesses and startups, People Legal has a portfolio of matters across a range of sectors pertaining to TUPE advice, redundancy processes, workplace discrimination and harassment issues, as well as a solid body of litigation work. Leading the department is Chris McAvoy-Newns who is intimately familiar with a breadth of discrimination, unfair dismissal and whistleblowing tribunal claims, while Helen Littlewood provides ad-hoc counsel to clients in a variety of sectors, most notably sports. Jessica Daniel has also been highly active in practice matters, demonstrating a strong competence in litigation cases as well as workplace and boardroom disputes.
Practice head(s):
Chris McAvoy-Newns
Other key lawyers:
Helen Littlewood; Jessica Daniel
Key clients
Great Influence Limited
Retrofit Works Limited
AppFollow.fi Oy
Daintree Wealth Management
Prevayl Limited
Plxsur Limited
Deel
Work highlights
- Advising a tech company on claims arising from the dismissal of ten employees. Claims alleged included equal pay, sex discrimination, and victimisation.
- Advising a public relations company on the sensitive dismissal of a disabled employee, avoiding grievances, appeals and Employment Tribunal claims.
- Advising a HR consultancy on various matters including TUPE processes, Employment Tribunal claims, appeals to the Employment Appeal Tribunal and managing disciplinary, grievance and redundancy processes.
Primas
Primas handles a steady stream of employment mandates ranging from contract and service agreement negotiations to redundancy and Employment Tribunal proceedings. Leveraging over 25 years of market expertise, David Walton specialises in complex, technical issues, such as TUPE procedures, enforcing restrictive covenants, and defending whistleblowing claims. Danielle Ayres is active on matters pertaining recruitment, policy drafting, and employee termination, whilst also possesses notable expertise in pregnancy and maternity cases. Holly Navarro, who joined from Wake Smith Solicitors Limited in 2022, is already active in a range of practice matters, particularly TUPE issues.
Practice head(s):
David Walton
Other key lawyers:
Danielle Ayres; Holly Navarro
Key clients
Conquip Engineering Group
Richer Sounds Limited
Travcorp Holdings Limited
Shepherds Friendly Society
Altrix
Pan World Brands
Rotational Mouldings Limited
Aeroco Group Limited