Employment

We represent both employers and employees, from first query to tribunal.

We manage risk and resolve disputes for employers and employees. We’ve sat on both sides of the table – so we’re better than most at seeing issues from every angle and predicting how each side will act. 

We don’t just apply the letter of the law. We think about the outcome you want, then find the most practical ways to achieve it. We’ve handled many high-profile test cases in the higher courts, both in the UK and Europe. We’re also particularly well-known for working with charities and the public sector.

How we help

If you’re an employer we can help you with everything from day-to-day HR issues through to  tribunal claims and training. Whatever the issue, you can trust us to strike the right balance between protecting your business and staying true to your values.

If you’re an employee we can advise you on everything to do with your work, contract and pay – from workplace disputes and disciplinary issues to discrimination and unfair dismissal.

Explore

Webinar | Practical implications of the new EHRC Services Code for awarding organisations | 23 September 2026

The updated Code of Practice for services, public functions and associations came into force on 5 August 2026. It provides guidance on the application of the Equality Act 2010 in light of the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment last year in For Women Scotland. Since the Supreme Court’s judgment, the Employment Tribunal has already heard multiple …
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UK right to work regime expands on 1 October 2026: what businesses should do now

From 1 October 2026, the Right to Work (RtW) regime expands beyond traditional employment to include worker contracts, individual sub‑contractors, and online matching services. This critical shift means civil penalties of up to £60,000 per illegal worker may extend beyond the direct employer and, in some circumstances, up the supply chain. To reduce this risk, …
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When is the right to be accompanied triggered? Reflections from Wolfe v Taka Mayfair Ltd

The Employment Appeal Tribunal (“EAT”) has handed down an important decision on the statutory right to be accompanied at disciplinary and grievance hearings. In Wolfe v Taka Mayfair Ltd [2026] EAT 106, the EAT confirmed that an employee cannot bring a claim for breach of section 10 of the Employment Relations Act 1999 (“the Act”) …
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People and Workplace round-up | 9 July

Welcome to our 5-minute round-up of people and workplace updates, hand-picked to help HR teams. Catch up on: Unlawful deductions from wages: bonus entitlement was fixed before an undisclosed cap was imposed by the employer The Employment Appeal Tribunal (“EAT”) confirmed that an employer cannot retrospectively limit a bonus by introducing a cap after the …
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The Employment Rights Act 2025 comes into force – what’s next for employers?

This article was first published on 15 January 2026. It has been updated following the Government’s announcement on 3 February 2026 regarding its revised implementation timeline, and again in July 2026 to reflect the annual increase in the statutory cap for compensation payments and provide updates on a number of consultations. On 18 December 2025, …
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“The service we receive is efficient, and the team that works directly with us understand our business and the practicalities, enabling them to provide business specific advice.”

Employment, Chambers 2026

“Bates Wells are always very responsive to requests for advice, and provide excellent support.”

Employment, Chambers 2026

“I felt that the firm genuinely cared for my well-being and that securing a good outcome was as important to them as it was to me.”

Employment, Chambers 2026

“A very good employment team representing charities and individuals and a broad sector of different firms.”

Employment, Legal 500 2026

“They understand our business really well and are proactive in helping us to find solutions.”

Employment, Chambers 2025

“The team are down to earth, supportive, collaborative, calm and highly professional. They are really great to work with, responsive and are able to translate complex legal scenarios into straight forward guidance.”

Employment, Legal 500 2025

“Their advice is accurate, comprehensive and timely.”

Employment, Chambers 2025

“Customer service is excellent at Bates Wells, they are all very friendly while not compromising on professionalism and expertise. The team always go the extra mile to protect the company and thinking beyond any instructions given.”

Employment, Legal 500 2025

“They are able to handle highly complex matters while explaining them clearly and giving sound advice.”

Employment, Chambers 2025

“Bates Wells are completely committed to winning cases. Their approach is thoughtful, clear and dynamic.”

Employment, Chambers 2024

“I can’t fault the service at Bates Wells. They are very knowledgeable in the gig economy area of law as well as being polite and keeping me updated.”

Employment, Chambers 2024

“Bates Wells provide high expertise and thoughtful, wise advice.”

Employment, Chambers 2024

‘The team has an outstanding reputation for working with charitable organisations. Team members have an in-depth knowledge of employment law and practice, and prepare for cases in a thorough and professional way, with a particular attention to detail.’

Employment, Legal 500 2024

‘I have been very impressed with the team’s breadth of clients and sectors, both nationally and internationally. Their commitment, expertise and knowledge are second to none.’

Employment, Legal 500 2024

‘Very knowledgeable in their sector – provided our charity with much-needed assurance.’

Employment, Legal 500 2024

“Throughout the process they were very caring, they kept us updated, they understood how the case was impacting us mentally and they worked tirelessly to ensure the risks to us were minimised.”

Employment, Chambers 2022

The team were very hard working, diligent, incredibly adaptable and responsive to changing deadlines and work loads/time pressures.

Employment, Legal 500 2022
Meet our team