Shakespeare Martineau LLP is ‘excellent at understanding what you are trying to achieve as a business, and then how you can achieve that’. The versatile team advises employers and employees across a wide range of sectors, with particular expertise in the education sector. It also has a flourishing 'third sector’ client base. The practice is particularly well-known for its handling of employment tribunal litigation. David Browne frequently works on major restructuring projects. Tom Long heads the firm’s further education sector, while Matt McDonald is also recommended. Michael Hibbs has now retired.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Emma Oliver provides excellent guidance and support to us. She is knowledgeable, commercially focused and very considered and concise in her advice – which helps us simplify complex situations we are dealing with.’
‘Tom Long has a really great understanding of who we are, what we do; this insight has enabled him to lead his team to personalise the service to what we need and he has created a deeply trusted relationship with multiple stakeholders.’
'I am always so grateful for speedy responses and the calm, professional approach of David Browne, Matt McDonald and Tom Long in particular – David and Matt were both amazing in how they supported me through a particularly challenging and difficult situation.'
‘David Browne is exceptional. He has an in-depth understanding of the HE sector which enables him to approach matters with pragmatism and experience. He is solutions focused and gives sound advice to ensure the right outcome for clients.’
‘Matt McDonald has provided a fantastic level of support. We really value his commercial approach and the fact that he helps us assess all the risks before we make an informed decision.'
‘The firm has extensive knowledge of employment in the higher education sector and the particular challenges this brings.’
‘We work closely with David Browne in the employment team. His advice is both legally compliant and practical. He understands the specific challenges of HEI.’
- 'The team are incredibly strong and there is collaboration and resilience among members such that if someone dealing with your case is not available someone else is fully briefed. Their knowledge is excellent and their service provision is outstanding.'
Key clients
- The University of Cambridge
- Hodge Bank
- The University of Warwick
- E.ON
- Polaris Children’s Services
- The Royal College of Art
- Valsoft Corporation
- The University of Hertfordshire
- Capital City Colleges Group
- The University of West London
Work highlights
Undertaking a sensitive investigation regarding allegations of bullying and harassment in a culturally diverse department, as well as advising on a complex grievance and counter grievance investigation involving separate allegations of race discrimination, bullying and harassment.
Advising a university and representing it in tribunal proceedings in respect of a claim under s145B of the Trade Union & Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 that the university allegedly induced breaches of collectively agreed terms. The value of the claim exceeds £1.5m and if it proceeds the case is likely to make case law.
Representing an university in long-running and multi-faceted litigation brought by a former academic member of staff in the tribunal, EAT, High Court and Court of Appeal, successfully securing a strike out of the tribunal claim in 2023.
Lawyers
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Philip Pepper; David Browne
Other key lawyers
Tom Long; Matt McDonald; Emma Oliver