Largely operating out of Central Lancashire, the employment practice at Forbes Solicitors has a ‘highly capable and engaging team’ that advises clients on a broad range of employment matters, with particular expertise in the commercial, education, public, and social housing sectors. National head of employment and education sector expert Jonathan Holden leads a specialist team whose ’knowledge of employment law and the education sector as a whole is second-to-none‘. Emma Swan is an expert in employment, HR consultancy, and business immigration services, and Ruth Rule-Mullen leads a public sector group that ’delivers exceptional results in the most challenging circumstances’. Jennifer Smith in Manchester, who advises on contentious and non-contentious employment law, and is particularly strong in representing clients before Employment Tribunals, is another key contact.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Forbes Solicitors' public sector employment team, led by Ruth Rule-Mullen, delivers exceptional results in the most challenging circumstances. Their unique blend of expertise, client-focus, and innovative solutions set them apart. In particular, Ruth Rule-Mullen and Laura McHugh stand out as trusted partners for public sector organisations and school trusts facing complex legal challenges.’
‘Jo Handler is just wonderful. Extremely knowledgeable and down-to-earth, Jo takes the time to understand the company and also the culture within the company so her advice is tailored to suit.'
‘Every single interaction I have had with Forbes Solicitors has been excellent. If I had to describe them in one word, it would be 'collaboration'. They want to help and each and every person I have had interaction with wants to help. Their company culture and values really ring true with each person you meet.'
‘Jo Handler and Jennifer Smith have been so professional, collaborative and informative and I honestly love working with them. They really care about Forbes and building long-term relationships with people.’
‘The speed of response is exceptional. Their knowledge of employment law and the education sector as a whole is second-to-none.’
‘I've worked predominantly with Laura McHugh and Ruth Rule-Mullen, each of whom have responded in a timely manner, have made themselves available to understand the query or advice required and have supported with providing guidance and increasing understanding for myself or a member of my team.’
‘Exceptional service from a highly capable and engaging team.’
‘Highly personable, driven and passionate about achieving the right outcome. Technical knowledge, attention to detail and tactical approach all beyond question.’
Key clients
- Accrol Papers Ltd
- BBF (Hull) Ltd
- Bainbridge Electrical
- Bishop Frazer Trust
- Blackburn College
- Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
- Bolton School
- Boohoo Group Ltd
- Brookhouse Areospace Ltd
- Calday Grange Grammar
Work highlights
Defended South Ribble Council against a claim of alleged race discrimination.
Acting for Cool Cube Logistics in a High Court injunction brought by two of the directors who allege that an injunction is required to avoid irreparable damage being imparted on the company.
Defending Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council against a complex employment tribunal claim involving claims of constructive dismissal, wrongful dismissal, and discrimination on the grounds of age and disability.
Lawyers
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Jonathan Holden; Emma Swan; Ruth Rule-Mullen
Other key lawyers
Laura McHugh; Jo Handler