The employment practice at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP specialises in negotiating complex and high value exits and severance packages for senior executives from financial and professional services, as well as sports stars. Practice head Nick Hurley has extensive experience acting for senior executives in Employment Tribunals, Civil Courts and Arbitrations, with a focus on discrimination and whistleblowing cases. Michael Powner regularly handles partnership retirements and founder exits, whilst Emily Chalkley advises senior individuals on post-termination disputes. The team gained the expertise of Daniel Pollard from Littler in August 2024. Trevor Bettany retired in April 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Experienced and pro-active team who are able to guide clients through the most difficult of situations in a calm, grounded and sympathetic manner.’
- ‘Nick Hurley is a seasoned operator with good judgment and a down to earth approach whilst also being alert to the legal nuances.’
Practice head
Nick Hurley
Other key lawyers
Michael Powner; Daniel Pollard; Emily Chalkley; Ben Smith