We act for employers, senior executives, partnerships and partners across all aspects of employment law, from contracts and day to day HR issues to the impact of mergers and acquisitions, negotiated exits, dismissals and post-employment disputes. The team are sensitive to the emotional and reputational issues that employment disputes can involve and, while it is generally best to avoid litigation, we are wholly familiar with employment tribunals and well acquainted with the High Court. We are accustomed to working within the regulatory regimes that can apply to financial services employment.
Specialist expertise includes:
Contract drafting and negotiation
Employment tribunal litigation (especially discrimination and whistleblowing)
Disputes over post-termination restrictions
TUPE
We also have extensive experience of supporting shipping companies, yacht owners and crew managers on a range of labour law issues across the marine sector, including: the preparation of Seafarer Employment Agreements and bespoke employment policies for ship and superyacht crews; advising on the Maritime Labour Convention; and handling and project managing sensitive and complex crew disputes, often involving senior officers and Masters.
The 2025 edition of the Legal 500 notes “Daniel and Leigh are our go to people. We know we can message each of them and they will seek to help as soon as possible, as its usually urgent! Daniel and Leigh and the perfect duo, they have a fantastic work dynamic” and “James Williams and his team have an incredible practice and sector knowledge which translates in a very practical approach. The quality of the work is exceptional.” Daniel Isaac, practice head has been recognised by Chambers and Partners for 20 years, with comments such as giving “sharp, astute and commercial advice” and having an “uncanny ability to explain simple concepts in layman's terms”.
Notable case references
Advising a US Fortune 500 employer of approximately 1,600 people in the UK on its contracts and policies, acquisitions and reorganisations, dismissals and disputes, including issues relating to confidential information and post-termination restrictions.
Representing a senior executive in a whistleblowing claim that had been described by his previous solicitors as ‘hopeless’ and not worth issuing, and settling that claim for a six figure sum.
Advising the CEOs of many of London’s leading advertising agencies on resigning, signing new contracts, taking equity and avoiding post-termination restrictions.
Acting on numerous discrimination claims, including many about sexual harassment.