Blacks’s Leeds-based employment team is led by Paul Kelly and Tom Moyes, with Chris Allen and David Ward also playing key roles. The team acts for both employers and employees, bringing a balanced perspective to its contentious and advisory work. Kelly is known for advising senior executives, particularly in the sports sector, while Moyes focuses on long-term employer relationships. Allen is a go-to adviser for SME owners and executives, and Ward has developed a strong profile in employment tribunal litigation and education-sector disputes. Anna Schiavetta is also noted for her tribunal expertise and high-profile discrimination work.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'We dealt with Paul in relation to a family law problem. His advice and continual attempt to problem solve was in stark contrast to the other sides law firm and another firm we had consulted. His decision making around open and privileged communication allowed us to push the other side into a settlement sooner than them trying to drag it out. All communications were very prompt, or if there was going to be a delay we were informed beforehand.'
- ‘Euan Lawrence was outstanding. His empathy and communication skills provide a real sense of client care. He uses his experience to advise from a position of authority, as well as being caringly clear about the relative chances of success in given scenarios.'
- ‘I was dealt with sensitively and I felt like I was given the opportunity to be heard. There is a real human touch element to the service provided.’
- ‘The human interaction and support was unbelievable in my time of crisis and that was right across the business. They listened then advised me and everything was always done in a timely fashion.'
- ‘Getting legal advice was a big step for me in a difficult situation, Blacks practice stands out for its client-focused approach, deep industry expertise, and commitment to putting the client first. They used a good mix cutting-edge legal strategies with a strong emphasis on technology, efficiency, and collaboration to deliver superior result and I felt ensured this was all to help me and improve me experience.’
- ‘The individuals I worked with at this firm truly stand out due to their exceptional empathy and unwavering support.'
- ‘What makes this practice unique is their exceptional commitment to personalised service and their understanding of the specific challenges faced by clients from diverse backgrounds.'
Key clients
- EMS-FP&S Truck & Trailer Parts
- Augean PLC
- BigChange Limited
- Southern Wind Limited T/A Fazenda
- Morrisons Supermarkets Plc
- Really Useful Products Limited
Work highlights
Successfully represented Kerr Mackie Primary School in defending a complex Employment Tribunal claim.
Practice head
Paul Kelly; Tom Moyes
Other key lawyers
Chris Allen; David Ward; Anna Schiavetta; Euan Lawrence